Starting a used car dealership requires careful preparation. Secure your dealer license, obtain a surety bond, and get garage liability insurance. Set up your lot and office, plan inventory, manage finances, and hire staff. Develop marketing strategies using a website, local SEO, and social media, and maintain compliance by renewing licenses, bonds, and insurance. Following this dealer license checklist ensures your used car dealership startup is prepared, compliant, and read

Starting a car dealership is exciting but requires planning. Key costs include: Dealer License & Bond: $50–$500 application, $100–$500 annual fees, bond $10k–$50k (costing $250–$2,500/year). Insurance: Garage liability $400–$1,500, general liability $500–$2,000, workers’ comp $2,000–$6,000. Lot & Office: Lease $1k–$10k/month, signage $500–$5k, office $1k–$3k, security $500–$2k. Other Costs: Inventory $10k–$100k+, software $100–$500/month, marketing $500–$5k/month. Total Sta