New or used, every Ohio dealership needs a license from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The location rules are detailed, so it pays to read them before you sign a lease. Here is the full process.
At a glance
| Issued by | Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles |
|---|---|
| Surety bond | $25,000 |
| Net worth | At least $75,000 |
| Course | 6 hours, online or in person, if you have not held a license in the past two years |
8 steps to your license
1. Pick the license type
Ohio has two: new motor vehicle dealer and used motor vehicle dealer. The categories differ from state to state, so read the details even if you have run a dealership elsewhere.
2. Take the dealer course
If you have not held a dealer license in the past two years, complete a six-hour course online or in person; the Ohio Independent Automobile Dealers Association offers one. The certificate goes with the application.
3. Register the business
Register the business name through the Ohio Business Gateway, which also registers you with the Ohio Department of Taxation. Get a federal employer identification number from the IRS and a vendor number from the auditor's office.
4. Find a qualifying location
You must own or rent it, and it must meet these rules:
- Separate from any other business or residence
- A sign with the business name in letters at least 6 inches tall
- An office of at least 180 square feet with a desk, three chairs, filing cabinets, a phone, lighting, power, heat and ventilation, not used for storage
- A phone answered in the dealership's name, with the number and business hours posted near the entrance
- A display lot of at least 3,500 square feet, not counting driveways or the office, separate from other businesses
- For new vehicle dealers, indoor space to display at least one car
- Local zoning met
Photos of the lot, office and sign go to [email protected].
5. Schedule the inspection
Send the photos ahead of time; after licensing, expect random inspections too.
6. Get fingerprinted
Everyone who owns more than 10% of the business is fingerprinted electronically, with the prints sent to the BMV.
7. Collect the documents
- The lease or rental agreement
- Proof of registration with the Secretary of State
- A copy of the $25,000 surety bond
- Business formation papers with the FEIN
- Information on owners, partners and officers
- Zoning compliance and proof of the lot, sign, phone and hours requirements
- Photos of the location and the course certificate
- Proof of at least $75,000 net worth
- For new vehicle dealers, a manufacturer or distributor statement for each make
8. Submit and pay
The fees cover two years:
- Permit: $50
- Master plate: $50.25, plus $10.25 for each additional plate
- Title Defect Recision Fund: $150
- Postage for plates: $4.50
Mail everything to Ohio BMV, Attention: Dealer Licensing Section, P.O. Box 16521, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521.
Before you apply
Requirements, fees and bond amounts change. Confirm the current rules with the Ohio BMV before you file. This guide is general information, not legal advice; for questions about your situation, talk to a lawyer.
Licensed? Stock your lot at the Kendall FL Auto auction
Licensed dealers can register to bid at the Kendall FL Auto auction, check the run list of upcoming lots, or consign vehicles to the sale.