How to Get a Dealer License in Georgia

A Georgia auto dealer license is required for anyone that sells (or attempts to sell) any amount of cars with the intent to make a profit. The only exception is selling a personal vehicle registered under your name.

There are two main types of car dealer licenses in Georgia. It is essential to know which one you need as their application processes differ.

• Used Auto Dealer License: Also known as an Independent Dealer License, this allows you to sell only used cars. Applications go through the Georgia Secretary of State and the license is issued through the Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers.
• New Auto Dealer License: Also known as a Franchise Dealer License, this allows you to sell both new and used cars. New car dealers can sell used cars without a Georgia dealer license. However, they still need to obtain:
  1. Dealer agreements with manufacturing companies as franchisees.
  2. A local business license and a dealer registration number from the Motor Vehicle Division of the Georgia Department of Revenue.

Before starting your used car dealer application, you need to complete a mandatory pre-license seminar covering laws and information pertaining to your licensure. This 4-hour course is available through Georgia Auto Dealer Training Academy, Georgia Independent Automobile Dealers Association (GIADA), or any other board-approved Georgia car education provider.

You will need to include your certificate of completion when you submit your application packet.

Georgia law dictates that all licensed used car dealers must have an established place of business. Your business location must meet the following requirements:

• Your location can be a sales room, an office in a building or an open lot.
• The location must meet all local zoning requirements. Verify current zoning regulations for the site with your city or county planning and zoning office.
• Take photos of your place of business that feature the sign and building prominently in the picture. These will be attached to your license application.
• Set up a landline telephone with a listed phone number at your place of business. Your business should have appropriate signage showing that you are a used car dealership.

Note: Do not submit your application until your proposed facility meets all requirements and is ready for inspection.

You can apply for a sales tax number online through the Georgia Department of Revenue. To apply, you will need:

1. Legal name, location, and mailing address of your business
2. Name, address, and Social Security number of owners, partners, or officers
3. Email address
4. Federal Identification Number (if applicable)

You will need to submit an original certificate of insurance or an Acord Form that indicates:

• Policy number
• Amount of coverage (liability-only is not acceptable)
• The exact name and address as shown on the application
• “Certificate Holder” must be listed as: State Board of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers, 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA. 31217

Auto Dealer Insurance

There are several types of insurance coverages that are recommended for auto dealers, but the recommended coverage will vary based on your business and personal needs.

If you’d like to learn more about all of the insurance coverages available to you, please read our auto dealer insurance guide.

In order to get a Georgia car dealer license and operate legally, you’ll need to obtain a Georgia auto dealer bond. This bond must:

• Expire on March 31st of even years.
• Be in the exact name of the business.
• Be an original and have power of attorney attached.
• Be signed

Complete the Used Car Dealer Application online through the Georgia Secretary of State licensing board, Used Motor Vehicle Division. Make sure all the required documents and application fees are in order.

Application Fee:  $170 (check or money order)

Note that an additional $170 is charged for each additional lot.

A Georgia auto dealer license expires every two years on March 31^st of even numbered years. Proof of a surety bond, continuing education, and a fee of $150 are required to renew.

As of 2021, you must have an application on file before getting fingerprinted.

Pre-register online at the Georgia Applicant Processing Services (GAPS) or by calling Cogent Systems at 1-888-439-2512.

Results of the fingerprint-based background check will be available for board review after the fingerprint process is complete.