Pennsylvania dealer licenses go through PennDOT, and a complete application the first time saves weeks. Here is everything the state asks for, in order.
At a glance
| Issued by | Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) |
|---|---|
| Surety bond | $20,000 for a dealer |
| Recovery fund | $60 to the Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund |
| Plates | $52 per dealer plate, $26 per motorcycle dealer plate |
8 steps to your license
1. Pick the license type
Pennsylvania licenses dealers of new vehicles, used vehicles, motorcycles, new trailers and mobile homes.
2. Register the business
Form a sole proprietorship, LLC, LLP or corporation and register it with the Pennsylvania Department of State; the documents go with the application.
3. Set up a qualifying location
- Permanent, with an office next to a display area
- Room to display at least five vehicles, separate from parking
- A phone, a desk and a lockable file cabinet for business records
- A permanent outdoor sign with the business name and hours
- Separate from any other business or residence
- A Certificate of Occupancy from the Department of Labor and Industry, and zoning approval
4. Complete the background checks
Every owner or partner needs a criminal history record from the Pennsylvania State Police; the original goes with the application.
5. Get a dealer bond
Every dealership needs a bond (mobile home dealers excepted). The premium is a share of the bond amount based on credit and finances. The amounts:
- Manufacturer or dealer: $20,000
- Messenger service: $50,000
- Full agent: $30,000
- Salvor: $10,000
- Card agent: $3,000
6. Gather the documents
- The deed or lease for the property
- Proof of liability insurance
- A $60 check to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund
- A list of owners and partners with their titles
- A completed MV-375 form and a notarized Section K of the application
- Photos of the entrance, posted hours, desk area with shredder, secure storage for cards and plates, doors and locks, outdoor signs and the fraud hotline notice
- Three character references for each owner or officer
7. Submit and pay
Send the application with $52 per dealer plate or $26 per motorcycle dealer plate to PennDOT, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 68283, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8283.
8. Pass the inspection
Once the documents are approved, a Vehicle Board agent inspects the dealership. A failed inspection means a $45 reinspection fee.
Before you apply
Requirements, fees and bond amounts change. Confirm the current rules with PennDOT 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.