How to Get a Dealer License in New York (2026)
In New York, dealers are licensed by New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. The bond is $20,000 (sells 50 or fewer vehicles a year); $100,000 (sells more than 50 vehicles a year). Every fact below links to the official page it came from.
New York dealer license facts
| Licensing agency | New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
|---|---|
| License name | Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Sales that trigger a license | Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Surety bond | $20,000 (sells 50 or fewer vehicles a year); $100,000 (sells more than 50 vehicles a year)source |
| Application / license fees | Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Pre-licensing education | Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Place of business | A display lot, a mailbox at the business address used only by the dealership, and a clear, permanent physical barrier from any other business sharing the location.source |
| Wholesale-only license | Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Last checked | 2026-09-24 |
Steps to get licensed in New York
- Pick the license. Ask New York State Department of Motor Vehicles which license fits a used-car business.
- Set up the place of business. A display lot, a mailbox at the business address used only by the dealership, and a clear, permanent physical barrier from any other business sharing the location.
- Buy the surety bond. Required amount: $20,000 (sells 50 or fewer vehicles a year); $100,000 (sells more than 50 vehicles a year).
- Apply to New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Fees are set by the agency; check its current fee schedule.
Flipping without a license in New York
We could not find an official sales-count threshold for New York. Before selling more than your own personal vehicles, Confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
New York data on CarFlipIQ
FAQ
Who issues dealer licenses in New York?
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles licenses motor vehicle dealers in New York.
How much is the dealer bond in New York?
The New York dealer surety bond is $20,000 (sells 50 or fewer vehicles a year); $100,000 (sells more than 50 vehicles a year). You pay a surety company a yearly premium, not the full bond amount.
Price New York cars before you buy them
Check any vehicle against live New York listings, then decide what to bid.
Not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles before you apply. Last checked 2026-09-24.