Auto Dealer Bonds

Fast Approvals - Low Rates - All 50 States!
  • Also known as a Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond or a DMV bond
  • Required by each state so dealers can obtain their license
  • Bond form and amount vary by states
How to get bonded
  • Apply Online
    Fill out our online application form.
  • Get Approved Instantly
    You will be sent your quote in minutes.
  • Pay and ship your bond
    We offer secure payment options.
Start Your Application
It's FREE. No Obligations. Approval in Minutes.

Overview of Auto Dealer Bond Requirements

An auto dealer surety bond is a binding contractual agreement between three parties: the obligee (the state requiring the bond), the principal (the auto dealer), and the surety (the provider of the bond).

Auto Dealer Bond Agreement

It’s important not to confuse an auto dealer bond with insurance. Even though dealer bonds are sometimes wrongfully referred to as auto dealer bond insurance, they do not protect the dealer but the general public. Think of the bond as a line of credit extended to the dealreship by the bonding company.

Simply put, auto dealer bonds are a way to compensate dealers' customers if they become victims of fraud or unethical business practices. These include (but are not limited to):

  • Tampering with the odometer
  • Providing false information about the vehicle’s condition
  • Failure to honor oral or written warranties
  • Engaging in deceptive financing methods, such as “yo-yo” financing
  • Not paying state sales tax or other applicable fees
  • Not reporting sales
  • Failing to adhere by the conditions of their license type

A claim can be made on the dealer bond if the dealership doesn’t follow all applicable laws and regulations. If a legitimate claim is filed against the dealership, the surety will pay all relevant costs up to the amount of the surety bond it had underwritten. However, the dealer will have to reimburse these costs later on, which means avoiding claims is the best course of action.

Start your surety bond application today! Why us?
  • Quick turnaround - just 1-2 business days
  • Tailor-made advice on building a strong application
  • Exclusive bad credit programs

Who needs to get bonded?

Whether you need to get bonded as a dealer or not depends on the specific regulations in your state. Some have different requirements for used-car, wholesale, auction and franchised dealers, for example. States may also require surety bonds for the licensing process of other type of related businesses, such as motorcycle, snowmobile and boat dealers, salvage dealers, salespersons, designated agents, parts recyclers, and others.

These types of surety bonds may not be referred to as auto dealer bonds, but they are, in essence, the same thing. The table below contains specific information about the different types of dealer bonds in all 50 states.

Find the Auto Dealer Bond You Need

The table below contains a list of only the most popular surety bonds. If you can't find yours, fill out our online application and select "Not in the list".

  • Alabama
    Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Dept. of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Alabama
    Used Motor Vehicle Dealer, Reconditioner, Rebuilde
    Alabama Dept of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Alabama
    Designated Agent Bond
    Alabama Department of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Alabama
    Bond of Automotive Dismantler and Parts Recycler
    Alabama Department of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Alabama
    AMHC License/Permit
    Manufactured Housing Commission
    Apply Now
  • Alabama
    Designated Agent-Non Dealer Bond
    Alabama D.O.R. Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • Alaska
    Motor Vehicle Dealer's/Buyer's Agent
    Division of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Alaska
    Motor Vehicle Dealer's/Buyer's Agent
    Division of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Arizona
    Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • Arizona
    Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • Arizona
    License / Mobile Home Dealer Bond
    State of Arizona, Office of Administration
    Apply Now
  • Arizona
    Electronic Records Access
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • Arkansas
    New Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Arkansas
    New Motorcycle, ATV, Scooter, Utility Vehicle or L
    Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Arkansas
    Used Motor Vehicle Dealer
    State Police - Special Services Section
    Apply Now
  • California
    Retail Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Occupational Licens
    Apply Now
  • California
    Wholesale Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Occupational Licens
    Apply Now
  • California
    Financial Responsibility Bond
    CA DMV
    Apply Now
  • California
    Retail Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Occupational Licens
    Apply Now
  • California
    Business Partner Automation
    Registration Operations Division
    Apply Now
  • California
    REGISTRATION SERVICE SURETY BOND
    California Registration Operations Division
    Apply Now
  • California
    Vehicle Verifier
    State of California DMV
    Apply Now
  • California
    Commercial Requester Account
    State of California DMV
    Apply Now
  • California
    Yacht and Ship Broker Bond
    California Department of Boating and Waterways
    Apply Now
  • California
    IRP Bonded Web User Bond
    Department Of Motor Vehicles, Motor Carrier Div.
    Apply Now
  • Colorado
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Revenue - Auto Industry Division
    Apply Now
  • Colorado
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Revenue - Auto Industry Division
    Apply Now
  • Colorado
    Motor Vehicle Buyer Agent
    Dept of Revenue - Auto Industry Division
    Apply Now
  • Colorado
    Home Sale Down Payment Bond
    Div. of Housing - Manufactured Home Registration
    Apply Now
  • Connecticut
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Dealers & Repairers
    Apply Now
  • Connecticut
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Dealers & Repairers
    Apply Now
  • Connecticut
    Registration Issuance
    DMV- Dealers and Repairers Division
    Apply Now
  • Delaware
    Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Division of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Delaware
    Financing the Sale of Motor Vehice License
    State of Deleware
    Apply Now
  • Delaware
    Motor Vehicle (Non-Dealer, Not Listed) Bond
    Division of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Repair Dealer
    Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Consumer Goods Repair Dealers Bond
    Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Auto Repossessor Bond
    DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • District of Columbia
    Auto Repossessor Bond
    DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Recreational Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Franchise Motor Vehicle Dealer
    State of Florida
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Mobile Home Installer Bond
    FL - Mobile Home Installer Bond
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Recreational Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Mobile Home Dealer
    Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Recreational Vehicle Manufacturer, etc.
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Yacht and Ship Broker's or Salesperson's
    State of Florida, Dept of Business and Professiona
    Apply Now
  • Florida
    Private Rebuilt Vehicle Inspection Bond
    Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles - Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Georgia
    Used Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealer
    State Board of Registration - Used Motor Vehicle
    Apply Now
  • Georgia
    Used Parts Dealer
    State Board of Registration - Used Parts Division
    Apply Now
  • Hawaii
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Industry Board - Department of Comme
    Apply Now
  • Hawaii
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Industry Board - Department of Comme
    Apply Now
  • Idaho
    Vehicle or Vessel Dealer
    Transportation Department
    Apply Now
  • Idaho
    New and Used Manufactured/Mobile Home Dealer/Broke
    Idaho Division of Building Safety
    Apply Now
  • Idaho
    Vehicle or Vessel Dealer
    Transportation Department
    Apply Now
  • Illinois
    Designated Agent
    Secretary of State - Vehicle Services Department
    Apply Now
  • Illinois
    Designated Agent
    Secretary of State - Vehicle Services Department
    Apply Now
  • Illinois
    Remittance Agent's
    Illinois Secretary of State
    Apply Now
  • Illinois
    Installment
    Vehicle Services Dept. Commercial & Farm Truck Div
    Apply Now
  • Indiana
    Vehicle Merchandising Certificate Bond
    Indiana Secretary of State Dealer Division
    Apply Now
  • Indiana
    Vehicle Merchandising Certificate Bond
    Indiana Secretary of State Dealer Division
    Apply Now
  • Indiana
    Auto & Mobile Home Dealers (Used Only, No New) Bon
    State of Indiana Dealer Division
    Apply Now
  • Iowa
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Iowa
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Kansas
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles - Dea
    Apply Now
  • Kansas
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles - Dea
    Apply Now
  • Kentucky
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Kentucky
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Kentucky
    Highway Use
    Dept. of Vehicle Regulation Div. of Motor Carriers
    Apply Now
  • Local Government
    Second Hand Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
    City Of New Bedford
    Apply Now
  • Local Government
    Massachusetts Used Car Dealer's
    City of Gardner
    Apply Now
  • Local Government
    Second Hand Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Town of Uxbridge
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Recreational and Used Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    New Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
    Lousiana Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Recreational and Used Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Auto Title
    Department of Public Safety
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Department of Public Safety & Corrections Office o
    LA Dept of Public Safety and Corrections
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Offical Motor Vehicle Inspection Station Bond
    LA Dept of Public Safety and
    Apply Now
  • Louisiana
    Recreational Products Dealer Bond
    Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Maine
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Bureau of Motor Vehicles - Dealer and Agent Servic
    Apply Now
  • Maine
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Bureau of Motor Vehicles - Dealer and Agent Servic
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Vehicle or Trailer Dealer Bond
    Motor Vehicle Administration
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Boat Dealer
    Dept of Natural Resources, Licensing & Registratio
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Vehicle or Trailer Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Administration
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Title Service Agent
    Motor Vehicle Administration
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Boat Dealer Bond
    Dept of Natural Resources Licensing & Registration
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Motor Vehicle Manufacturer
    State of Maryland
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Credit Hauling Bond
    State Highway Administration
    Apply Now
  • Maryland
    Motor Vehicle Repair Facility License
    Prince George's County
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    MASSACHUSETTS USED CAR DEALER?S
    City of Boston, MA
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Dighton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Barnstable, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Barnstable Licensing Division
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Abington, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Abington
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Taunton, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Taunton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Fall River, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Fall River
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Middleton, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Middleton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Medford, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Medford
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Worcester, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Worcester
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Lawrence, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Lawrence
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Peabody, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Peabody
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Hampden, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Hampden
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    North Andover, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of North Andover
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Attleboro, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Attleboro
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Natick, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Natick
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Boston, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Boston
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Milford, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Milford
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Malden, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Malden
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Salisbury, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Salisbury
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Danvers, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Danvers
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Westport, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Westport, MA
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    North Attleboro, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of North Attleboro
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Framingham, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Framingham
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Marlborough, MA Used Car Dealer
    Department of Municipal Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Groton, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Groton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Franklin, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Franklin
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Carver, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Carver Licensing Authority
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Lynn, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Lynn, City Clerks Officer
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Somerset, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City Of Somerset
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Auburn, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Auburn
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Auto & Mobile Home Dealers (Used Only, No New) Bon
    City of Cambridge
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Rockland, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Rockland
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Mendon, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Mendon
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Haverhill, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Haverhill
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Dudley, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town Of Dudley, MA
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Randolph, MA Used Car Dealer
    Town of Randolph
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Bourne, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Bourne
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Stoughton, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Stoughton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Westfield, MA Used Car Dealer's
    City of Westfield
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Amherst, MA Used Car Dealer's
    Town of Amherst
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town Of Reading
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Wareham, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Wareham
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Southwick, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Southwick
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Oxford, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town Of Oxford
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Saugus, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    City Of Saugus
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Gill, MA
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Orange, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Orange
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Swansea, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Swansea
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Hopedale, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Hopedale
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Easton, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Easton
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Needham, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Needham
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Yarmouth, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Yarmouth
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Walpole, MA Used Car Dealer Bond
    Town of Walpole
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Rowley, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town Of Rowley
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    West Bridgewater, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of West Bridgewater
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town Of Raynham, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town Of Raynham
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Winchendon, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Winchendon
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Barnstable, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Barnstable
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Agawam, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Agawam
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Somerset, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Somerset
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of North Oxford, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of North Oxford
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Somerville, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Somerville
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Kingston, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Kingston
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Andover, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Andover
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Town of Franklin, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    Town of Franklin
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Leominster, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Leominster
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Melrose, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Melrose
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    City of Pittsfield, MA Used Car Dealer's Bond
    City of Pittsfield
    Apply Now
  • Massachusetts
    Electric Vehicle Registration Permit Bond
    Commonwealth of Massachusetts, RMV
    Apply Now
  • Michigan
    Uniform Vehicle Dealer
    Department of State
    Apply Now
  • Michigan
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of State
    Apply Now
  • Michigan
    Uniform Manufactured Housing Retailer's Bond
    Michigan - Department of State
    Apply Now
  • Michigan
    Uniform Manufactured Housing Retailer's Consumer D
    Dept of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
    Apply Now
  • Minnesota
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle S
    Apply Now
  • Minnesota
    Manufactured Home Dealer
    Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
    Apply Now
  • Minnesota
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle S
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    New Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    Designated Agent
    Department of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    New Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    Designated Agent Bond
    Department of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    Designated Agent Bond
    Department of Revenue
    Apply Now
  • Mississippi
    Manufactured Housing
    Commissioner of Insurance
    Apply Now
  • Missouri
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Bureau - Dealer Licensing Section
    Apply Now
  • Missouri
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Bureau - Dealer Licensing Section
    Apply Now
  • Missouri
    Used Vehicle Dealer Bond (Springfield, MO)
    City of Springfield License Divisio
    Apply Now
  • Montana
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Title and Registration Bureau
    Apply Now
  • Montana
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Title and Registration Bureau
    Apply Now
  • Nebraska
    50K Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board
    Apply Now
  • Nebraska
    25K Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board
    Apply Now
  • Nebraska
    Motor Vehicle Dealer (K)
    Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board
    Apply Now
  • Nebraska
    Motor Vehicle Dealer (K)
    Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Vehicle Industry Business License Bond
    Occupational and Business Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Vehicle Industry Business License Bond
    Occupational and Business Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Vehicle Industry Business License
    Nevada - Occupational and Business Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Body Shop or Garage Business License Bond
    Occupational and Business Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Specialty License Plate Bond
    Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Nevada
    Vehicle Registration Program Bond
    Occupational and Business Licensing
    Apply Now
  • New Hampshire
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing Bure
    Apply Now
  • New Hampshire
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing Bure
    Apply Now
  • New Jersey
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing Bure
    Apply Now
  • New Jersey
    Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Surety
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing Bure
    Apply Now
  • New Mexico
    Vehicle Dealer or Auto Recycler
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • New Mexico
    Vehicle Dealer or Auto Recycler
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • New Mexico
    Title Service Company Bond
    Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Automobile Brokers Bond
    Department of State
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Auto & Mobile Home Dealers (New & Used) Bond
    Obligee info for this request was wrong
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Executive Law Article 21-B
    New York State Deaprtment of State
    Apply Now
  • New York
    Second Hand Vehicle Sales
    Town of Hempstead
    Apply Now
  • North Carolina
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - License & Theft Burea
    Apply Now
  • North Carolina
    Manufactured Housing Dealers
    Dept of Insurance Division of Motor Vehicle
    Apply Now
  • North Carolina
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - License & Theft Burea
    Apply Now
  • North Dakota
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Divis
    Apply Now
  • North Dakota
    Mobile Home and Manufactured Home Dealer Bond
    Department of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • North Dakota
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Divis
    Apply Now
  • Ohio
    Deputy Registrar
    Department of Public Safety - Bureau of Motor Vehi
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer's Bond
    Used Motor Vehicle & Parts Commission
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Used Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Used Motor Vehicle and Parts Commission
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Used Traile, Automobile, Merchandise Salvage or Se
    The City of Oklahoma City-Licensing Division
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Used Motor Vehicle Salesperson's Bond
    Used Motor Vehicle and Parts Commission
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Manufactured Home Manufacturer's Bond
    Used Motor Vehicle and Parts Commission
    Apply Now
  • Oklahoma
    Motor License Agent Bond
    Oklahoma Tax Commission
    Apply Now
  • Oregon
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Driver and Motor Ve
    Apply Now
  • Oregon
    Manufactured Structures Dealer Bond
    Department of Consumer & Business Services
    Apply Now
  • Oregon
    Dismantler or Rebuilder of Vehicles
    Department of Transportation - Driver and Motor Ve
    Apply Now
  • Oregon
    Motorcycles, Mopeds, Snowmobiles, ATV
    Dept of Transportation Driver and Motor Vehicle Se
    Apply Now
  • Oregon
    Disseminator Bond
    State of Oregon, Dept of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylania
    Dealer/Agent/Messenger/Salvor
    Department of Transportation - Bureau of Motor Veh
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylania
    Dealer/Agent/Messenger/Salvor
    Department of Transportation - Bureau of Motor Veh
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylvania
    New, New & Used, Auto, & Mobile Home Dealers
    Dept of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylvania
    SURETY BOND (Hauling)
    Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylvania
    Sales Finance Company Bond
    Pennsylvania Department of Banking
    Apply Now
  • Pennsylvania
    Official Inspection Station Certificate of Appoint
    Manager of the Vehicle Inspection Division
    Apply Now
  • Rhode Island
    Dealer's License
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer's License & Re
    Apply Now
  • Rhode Island
    Dealer's License
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer's License & Re
    Apply Now
  • South Carolina
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing &
    Apply Now
  • South Carolina
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Licensing &
    Apply Now
  • South Dakota
    Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • South Dakota
    Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • State of Arizona
    Title Service
    Dealer Licensing Unit, Motor Vehicle Division
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Dealer of Manufactured Homes
    Motor Vehicle Commissioner
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Motor Vehicle Auction
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Motor Vehicle Auction
    Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Manufactured Home Stabilizing System Installer Bon
    Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Modular Building Units Installer Bond
    STATE FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE
    Apply Now
  • Tennessee
    Modular Building Units Dealer Bond
    State Fire Marshal's Office - Codes Enforcement
    Apply Now
  • Texas
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Divis
    Apply Now
  • Texas
    Continuous Manufactured Housing License
    Dept of Housing and Conmmunity Affairs - MHD
    Apply Now
  • Utah
    Motor Vehicle Dealer, Crusher, Body Shop
    Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division
    Apply Now
  • Utah
    Motor Vehicle Dealer, Crusher, Body Shop
    Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division
    Apply Now
  • Utah
    Factory Built Housing Dealer Bond
    Division of Occupational an professional Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Vermont
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    VT DOT - Agency of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Dealer Board
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Motorcycle, Trailer or T&M Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Motor Vehicle Dealer Board
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Passenger Carrier/Broker
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Extended Service Contract Provider/Obligor
    Vehicle Investment Protection, Inc.
    Apply Now
  • Virginia
    Household Goods Carrier
    Commonwealth of Virginia
    Apply Now
  • Washington
    Vehicle, Vessel, Vehicle Manufacturer,
    Department of Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Washington
    Vehicle, Vessel, Vehicle Mfgr, Reg Tow Truck Oper
    Department of Licensing
    Apply Now
  • Washington
    Vehicle, Vessel, Vehicle Mfgr, Reg Tow Truck Oper
    Department of Licensing
    Apply Now
  • West Virginia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Services
    Apply Now
  • West Virginia
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Division of Motor Vehicles - Dealer Services
    Apply Now
  • Wisconsin
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Wisconsin
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation
    Apply Now
  • Wyoming
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Servi
    Apply Now
  • Wyoming
    Motor Vehicle Dealer
    Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Servi
    Apply Now
  • Wyoming
    Wyoming Based Manufacturer Bond
    Wyoming Department Of Transportation
    Apply Now

Regardless of the type of auto dealer bond you need, it’s illegal to operate your business without it. Your license application will not be complete without one, and selling cars without a valid surety bond can lead to a fine and the revocation of your license.

How much does an auto dealer bond cost?

Depending on the state, the required motor vehicle dealer bond amounts can vary widely, from as little as $5,000, up to $100,000. But these amounts are only the maximum coverage bonds provide for claimants.

Your auto dealer bond cost is a percentage of the total bond amount, usually between 0.75% and 3%. This means а $50,000 bond will cost you anywhere between $375 and $5,000 per year.

Auto Dealer Surety Bond Cost

This is the standard market rate for applicants with good credit and a clean credit report. The cost for less qualified applicants goes up to 3%-10%. However, your premium also depends on other specifics, such as your professional experience, and the overall financial strength of your business. The better these factors are, the smaller the cost will be.

Below is a breakdown of dealer bond premiums, based on some commonly-required total amounts and the applicant's credit score:

Expected bond premiums based on credit score
Credit Score
Bond Amount 700 650 - 699 600 - 649 Below 599
$10,000 $100-$150 $100-$300 $250-$500 $500-$1,000
$20,000 $150-$300 $200-$600 $500-$1,000 $1,000-$2,000
$25,000 $188-$375 $250-$750 $625-$1,250 $1,250-$2,500
$30,000 $250-$500 $300-$900 $750-$1,500 $1,500-$3,000
$35,000 $262.5-$525 $350-$1,050 $875-$1,750 $1,750-$3,500
$50,000 $375-$750 $500-$1,500 $1,250-$2,500 $2,500-$5,000
$75,000 $560-$1,125 $750-$2,250 $1,875-$3,750 $3,750-$7,500
$100,000 $750-$1,500 $1,000-$3,000 $2,500-$5,000 $5,000-$10,000

To verify what the total bond amount required in your state is, scroll down to the bottom of the page and select it on the interactive map.

Check out our surety bond cost guide for more detailed information about bond prices, and what you can do to lower your premium. Some ways include:

  • Cleaning up credit report red flags, such as tax liens or civil judgments
  • Showcasing liquid assets and strong financials
  • Carefully choosing your surety bond provider

The surety bond cost calculator on the right can also help you get an estimate of your yearly premium. For an exact quote, simply submit our online application.

Getting Bonded with Bad Credit

If you have less-than-perfect credit, or even past bankruptcies, tax liens or civil judgments, Bryant Surety Bonds can still help you get bonded. We operate a bad credit surety bond program, which helps high-risk applicants get the bonds they need.

Call our surety agents at (866) 450-3412 and they’ll be happy to provide personalized advice on how you can build a strong application.

Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Application

Getting your bond is a straightforward process. You can apply online and get a quote in minutes, or call (866)-450-3412 and one of our auto dealer bond experts will guide you through the application process.

To get your exact bond price, you may have to supply a few required personal and financial documents, such as:

  • Personal financial statements
  • Business financial statements
  • Proof of liquid asset ownership
  • Resumé

These may be necessary, so that the surety bond company can make a better assessment of your business’s likelihood of triggering and paying back claims. So if you have good financials and liquid assets, such as cash on hand, demonstrating them can lower your bond costs. The same is true for your industry experience: a resume that shows you’re seasoned in the industry is a strong signal of trustworthiness.

Bond Forms

After the surety assesses the overall status of your business, you will need to sign an indemnity agreement, as well as your state’s required bond form. We have all dealer bonds on file, so we can fill yours out for you and all you have to do is sign it. Licensing agencies usually only accept the original bond form, though we recommend keeping a copy for your personal records.

That’s a basic overview of the application process. Once issued, you will have to renew your bond yearly or biannually, depending on the state in which you operate.

Renewal Deadlines

Some states don't have predetermined expiration dates on their motor vehicle dealer bonds. Instead, dealer bonds in these cases are valid for one year since the issue date. Others have a fixed expiration date for all car dealer bonds at some point of the year, meaning they need to be renewed prior to that date. To stay up-to-date, check out the dates for your particular state below.

Auto Dealer Bond Renewal Deadlines by Month
March 31st Dealers in New Jersey and New Mexico renew their bonds before March 31st each year, whereas Georgia dealers only need to do it on even years.
April 30th Florida dealer bonds expire on that date each year.
June 30th Bond renewal is due before June 30th for West Virginia car dealers.
September 30th Renewal deadline for all Alabama dealers.
December 31st Dealer bonds expire on December 31st for the followings states: Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island.
Other deadlines Other non-continuous dealer bonds don’t have a fixed date, but they do have expiration dates nonetheless. Oregon dealer bonds, for example, are valid for 3 years and expire on the last day of the month they were issued. The same is true for Texas and Tennessee dealer bonds, though their validity is 2 years.

Renewal Application

The renewal application is similar to the initial application but shorter. You’ll get a new quote, which may be lower if your financial or credit situation has improved over the past year.

If you have acquired your dealer bond with Bryant Surety Bonds, we make sure you never forget a deadline by sending several reminders– 30, 60 and 90 days ahead of the deadline. It is advisable to renew your bond as early as possible. You may have to pay late or reinstatement fees if you miss your deadline, or you may have to start the application process from the beginning.

Further Reading

Popular Types of Auto Dealer Bonds

Below are some of the most commonly requested car dealer bonds.

Texas

All Texas dealers need to post a $25,000 bond and pay premiums once every two years.

Florida

The Department of Highway Security requires a $25,000 dealer bond from all licensed dealers in the state.

California

Retail dealers need a $50,000 bond, while the amount goes down to $10,000 for motorcycle, all-terrain and wholesale-only dealers.

Georgia

Used-car dealers in the state need to have a valid $35,000 bond. For used car parts dealers the amount is $10,000.

New York

Both new and used-car dealers need a surety bond to get licensed, however the amounts are different. Used-car dealer bond amounts can be either $10,000 or $25,000, while bonds for franchised dealers are fixed at $50,000.

Illinois

The process of getting licensed as a designated agent in Illinois involves posting a $20,000 surety bond.

How to Become an Auto Dealer

States have varying requirements for auto dealers. While posting a motor vehicle dealer bond is always one of them, there are a number of others that you will need to fulfill before you can get your license. Some of the common ones include:

  • Buying garage liability insurance
  • Passing a background check
  • Paying application fees
  • Getting a zoning approval
  • Displaying a business sign

Check with your state licensing authority, because licensing requirements can differ greatly from state to state. We have created dealer licensing guides for several states, which you are welcome to use as reference: