How To Get An Alabama Car Dealer License

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Alabama motor vehicle dealers

Alabama motor vehicle dealers need a license and a surety bond to do business in the state. Here’s a quick how-to for licensing and bonding. If you’re ready to get bonded, you can apply online with Single Source Insurance.

Get Bonded

Alabama Car Dealer License Requirements

An Alabama dealers license is issued by the state’s Department of Revenue. To apply, would-be dealers use the Motor Vehicle Title Registration & Insurance Portal (MVTRIP) and submit their information online. New, used, and wholesale dealers all apply through MVTRIP and specify which type of license they need on the application. Some of the information dealer applicants need to provide includes:

  • Business’s name and any trade names or DBAs
  • Business mailing and physical address(es)
  • Type of organization (corporation, LLC, etc.)
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
  • Sales state tax number (new and used dealers)
  • Number of vehicles sold in the previous calendar year
  • Personal information and copies of drivers’ licenses for all owners, partners, etc.
  • $25 application fee + $5 per additional location
  • $25,000 surety bond
  • Proof of blanket motor vehicle liability insurance
  • Proof of residence in the state of Alabama

Dealers also need to include pictures of all business locations and their signs with the application. The Department takes 7-14 business days to process applications, and if yours is approved, you will receive directions for printing out the license.

After getting a license, dealers can obtain dealer plates from a county licensing office. New auto dealers can get 25 plates, while used dealers can get 10, and any dealer can qualify for 25 additional plates if they complete 1,500 or more title transfers or applications for transfers in the previous licensing year.

Auto Dealer Sign Requirements

Alabama isn’t the only state with strict guidelines for motor vehicle dealer signs. According to dealer licensing laws, here’s the criteria for the signs:

  • Must specify new or used motor vehicle dealer
  • Must use business’s name as printed on the license
  • Sign must be visible and legible from the closest street or 50 yards, whichever is a greater distance
  • Must be displayed at the registered business address

Get A Dealer Bond

Surety bonds are required of Alabama motor vehicle dealers as a reassurance to the state and to consumers that the dealer is licensed and conducting business according to the law. The dealer agrees to honor any sales contracts made and keep their license current, in addition to the other provisions of the Code of Alabama 1975 Chapter 12, Article 5. You can access most forms, including the surety bond form, on the Department’s website.

It’s easy to get this�$25,000 bond�get in touch with Single Source Insurance for a free quote today!�

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