You'll need a qualifying location first
New York requires your dealership to operate out of a location zoned and approved for auto sales — a home address usually will not satisfy this requirement. If you don't already have a location lined up, this is the first thing we'll help you sort out.
NY Dealer License Requirements
A general overview of what New York requires to become a licensed used car dealer. Exact fees and bond amounts can change — we'll confirm the current numbers with you directly.
Business Entity
A registered LLC or corporation, separate from your personal name.
Qualifying Location
A commercial location zoned for auto sales, with the required signage in your company name.
Surety Bond
A NY dealer bond, with the amount required set by the state and your sales volume.
Garage Liability Insurance
Insurance coverage for vehicles in your care, custody, and control.
Federal EIN
A federal Employer Identification Number for your dealership.
Certificate of Authority
Sales tax registration with the NY Department of Taxation and Finance.
Background Check
Fingerprinting and a criminal background check for the applicant and any other principals.
Location Inspection
Your business location must pass a DMV inspection before your license is issued.
Work with our Dealership & Insurance Advisor
We work with a Dealership & Insurance Advisor who specializes in getting new NY dealers properly set up — from your garage liability insurance to your surety bond and the paperwork in between.
This overview is provided for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Requirements, fees, and bond amounts are set by New York State and can change — we'll confirm the current requirements with you directly.