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Dealers & Auto Industry

Licensing, bonding, forms, and compliance for car dealers & industry professionals — the DMV requirements for your state, in plain language.

To sell cars in most states you need a dealer license — which means submitting an application, posting a surety bond, securing a business location that meets your state's zoning and display-lot rules, passing a background check, and (for salespeople) holding a separate salesperson license. Exact forms, bond amounts, and fees vary by state.

Securing a dealership license is a daunting process.The State mandates an avalanche of applications and an exacting array of building requirements. We provide easy-to-follow licensing information for your state — if you're in the business of selling cars, you've come to the right place.

Ask Sam about becoming a dealerDMV.org's virtual assistant — instant, step-by-step help.

Running a dealership

Licensing RequirementsBecoming a car dealer isn't easy. Find out about the DMV regulations and the stringent application process.

Salesperson LicenseIf you want to find out about selling cars in your state, here's your chance.

Surety BondsFind information on getting the surety bond your dealership needs.

Dealer FormsProper documentation is key. Get the forms you need to comply with DMV regulations.

Vehicle Dealers' HandbookRead your state's dealers' handbook to get a leg up on the competition.

Lemon LawGot caught in a sour deal? Find out whether a faulty car can be designated a lemon.

Why the DMV regulates dealers

In each state the DMV regulates drivers — but it also sets the requirements and regulations every dealer must follow. Whether it's signage, paperwork, or eligibility to sell cars, the DMV is the overseer. You'll need to know who can and cannot open a dealership, how much it will cost, and where to file the application forms, plus the consumer-protection rules and what counts as deceptive advertising.

None of our dealership pages contain generalized fluff — each offers information particular to your state. For example, Pennsylvania requires a minimum of five different applications, whereas North Dakota requires just one. You'll also learn each state's building requirements (street-sign size, display-lot size, phone lines, posted hours) plus downloadable forms including bill of sale and odometer disclosure statements.

Frequently asked questions

How do I become a licensed car dealer?

In most states you must submit a dealer license application, post a surety bond, secure a business location that meets zoning and display-lot requirements, pass a background check, and pay state fees. Exact forms and bond amounts vary by state — start with your state's Licensing Requirements page.

What is a dealer surety bond and how much is it?

A dealer surety bond guarantees you'll operate lawfully and pay any fines or consumer claims. Amounts are set by each state and commonly range from $10,000 to $50,000; you pay a small annual premium, not the full amount. See your state's Surety Bonds page.

Do salespeople need their own license?

In many states, yes — individual salespeople need a separate salesperson license in addition to the dealership's license. Requirements differ by state; check the Salesperson License page for yours.

Where do I find my state's dealer forms?

Every state publishes its own dealer application, bill of sale, and odometer disclosure forms. Our Dealer Forms page links to the current downloadable forms for your state.