ABOUT CAR DEALER SCHOOL
The Car Dealer School, your premier online education center dedicated to empowering independent car dealers across the nation. We specialize in providing comprehensive pre-licensing and renewal education courses, tailored to meet the specific requirements of every state that mandates dealer training.
At The Car Dealer School, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the automotive industry. Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in a competitive market. Whether you’re just starting out or need to renew your license, our expert-designed courses cover everything from regulatory compliance to industry best practices.
Our flexible online platform allows you to learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, ensuring you have the skills and confidence to excel as a car dealer. With a focus on real-world applications and up-to-date information, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the car dealership business.
Join the thousands of successful dealers who have trusted The Car Dealer School to enhance their careers. Let us be your partner in achieving your professional goals.
California:
To become a licensed used car dealer in California, you must meet several pre-licensing requirements.
- Pre-Licensing: Required for all used car dealers.
- Renewal: Ongoing education may be required as part of the renewal process.
Here’s a comprehensive list:
- Complete the Pre-Licensing or Renewal Education Course
- Pass the Dealer Examination
- Obtain a Permanent Business Location
- Acquire a Dealer License Number
- Submit Fingerprints for Background Check
- File a Certificate of Insurance
- Display Business Hours
- Pay the Necessary Fees
- Various Fees: Include the application fee, renewal fee, and fingerprint fee.
- Prepare for DMV Inspection
- Inspection: The DMV will inspect the dealership location to ensure it meets all physical requirements.
For further details, sign up for our California Dealer Course.
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Florida
To become a licensed used car dealer in Florida, you must meet the following pre-licensing requirements:
- Complete the Pre-Licensing Dealer Training Course
- Approved Providers: The course must be taken through a provider approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
- Secure a Permanent Business Location
- Zoning Compliance: The location must meet all local zoning requirements for operating a dealership.
- Signage: A permanent, professional sign with the dealership name must be displayed.
- Obtain a Surety Bond
- Amount: A $25,000 surety bond is required for used car dealers.
- Register Your Business with the Florida Department of Revenue
- Sales Tax Number: Dealers must obtain a sales tax number to collect and remit sales tax on vehicle sales.
- Obtain Garage Liability Insurance
- File for a Florida Business License
- Application: Submit the HSMV 86056 form, which is the Application for a License as a Motor Vehicle Dealer.
- Fees: Pay the applicable license fee, which varies depending on the type of dealership license.
- Submit Fingerprints for Background Check
- Live Scan: Fingerprints must be submitted electronically through an authorized Live Scan vendor for a background check.
- Clearance: A criminal background check must be passed as part of the licensing process.
- Establish a Place of Business
- Prepare for FLHSMV Inspection
- Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Meet All Local Requirements
- Display Business Hours
For more detailed information, you can visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Texas:
To become a licensed used car dealer in Texas, you must meet several pre-licensing requirements. Here’s a detailed list of the steps you need to follow:
- Complete the Pre-Licensing Education
- Register Your Business Name
- Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)
- Establish a Permanent Business Location
- Obtain a Surety Bond
- Apply for a General Distinguishing Number (GDN)
- Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Register for Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit
- Secure Garage Liability Insurance
- Submit a Fingerprint Background Check
- Prepare for a TxDMV Inspection
- Inspection: Your business location may be subject to inspection by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure compliance with all requirements.
- File the Dealer License Application
- Comply with Additional Local Requirements
- Display Business Hours
- Requirement: Dealers must maintain regular business hours that are clearly visible to the public.
- Additional Permits (If Necessary)
- Vehicle Storage Facilities (VSF): If you plan to operate a vehicle storage facility, you must also obtain a VSF license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
For further details, refer to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) website.
Georgia
To become a licensed used car dealer in Georgia, there are several pre-licensing requirements you must fulfill. Below is a comprehensive list of the steps you need to follow:
- Complete Pre-Licensing Education
- Register Your Business Entity
- Business Structure: Decide on your business structure (e.g., LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship) and register with the Georgia Secretary of State.
- Business Name Registration: Ensure that your business name is unique and register it with the state.
- Obtain a Georgia Sales Tax Number
- Establish a Permanent Business Location
- Obtain a Surety Bond
- Submit Fingerprints for Background Check
- Obtain Liability Insurance
- File the Dealer License Application
- Pass a Location Inspection
- Comply with Additional Local Requirements
- Local Permits and Licenses: Depending on your city or county, you may need additional business licenses or permits to operate legally.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Georgia Secretary of State’s website and the [Georgia Independent Automobile Dealers Association GIADA.
North Carolina:
To become a licensed used car dealer in North Carolina, you need to meet several pre-licensing requirements. Here’s a comprehensive list of the steps you need to follow:
- Complete the Pre-Licensing Course
- Register Your Business Entity
- Secure a Business Location
- Obtain a North Carolina Sales Tax Number
- Purchase a Surety Bond
- Submit Fingerprints for Background Check
- Obtain Liability Insurance
- File the Dealer License Application
- Pass a Location Inspection
- Attend the NCDMV Dealer Training Seminar
- Comply with Additional Local Requirements
For more detailed information, you can visit the North Carolina DMV Dealer Unit website and the North Carolina Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NCIADA)
Washington
To become a licensed used car dealer in Washington, you must complete several pre-licensing requirements. Below is a comprehensive list of these requirements:
- Complete the Pre-Licensing Education Course
- Register Your Business
- Obtain a Business Location
- Obtain a Washington State Business License
- Get a Surety Bond
- Purchase Liability Insurance
- Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
- File the Dealer License Application
- Pass a Business Location Inspection
- Comply with Local Requirements
For more detailed information and to begin the application process, you can visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
Take your first step in getting your pre-licensing or renewal education completed by taking one of the courses on the Car Dealer School platform.

