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Dealer License by State
New Hampshire used dealer license overview
Unofficial summary – verify with state regulator

New Hampshire Used Vehicle Dealer License Requirements – 2025 Overview

In New Hampshire, anyone engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in motor vehicles must generally be licensed as a dealer by the DMV. This page highlights common requirements for used vehicle dealers.

Important: This is a general summary only. Always confirm the latest requirements, forms, and fees on the official state web pages before applying.

1. Who licenses dealers in New Hampshire?

The New Hampshire DMV licenses motor vehicle dealers, inspection stations, and related businesses through its Dealer and Inspection Desk.

2. Common dealer license types

Common New Hampshire dealer license types include:

  • Retail Motor Vehicle Dealer – sells vehicles to the public.
  • Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer – sells vehicles only to other licensed dealers.
  • Transporter and Recycler licenses for certain specialized operations.

3. Education, background checks, and key people

  • Applicants must complete form DSMV 602 (Application for Motor Vehicle Dealer License) and provide owner/officer information.
  • The DMV may review criminal and regulatory history before recommending approval to the Dealer Licensing Board.

4. Business location, office, and sign

New Hampshire requires an established place of business that generally includes:

  • A permanent business location in New Hampshire with a physical address.
  • An enclosed office where records are maintained and transactions occur.
  • A display area large enough for the minimum number of vehicles required for your license type.
  • A permanent sign displaying the dealership name, visible from the public way.
  • Compliance with municipal zoning and land-use ordinances, often documented by a zoning letter.

5. Business entity, bond, and insurance

5.1 Business registration and tax

  • Register your business trade name with the New Hampshire Secretary of State if applicable.
  • Obtain any tax registrations required for your operations.

5.2 Dealer bond and insurance

  • New Hampshire dealers must furnish a surety bond in an amount set by statute and detailed in DMV guidance.
  • Maintain garage liability insurance and provide proof to DMV as part of your application.

6. High-level application steps

  1. Determine whether you need a retail or wholesale dealer license.
  2. Secure a compliant dealership location and verify zoning approval.
  3. Form your business entity and register any trade names.
  4. Obtain your dealer surety bond and liability insurance.
  5. Complete form DSMV 602 and any additional DMV and municipal forms.
  6. Submit the completed application packet and fees to the DMV Dealer and Inspection Desk.
  7. Participate in site inspections and Board review as scheduled.

7. After approval: ongoing compliance

  • Renew your New Hampshire dealer license and dealer plates annually.
  • Maintain required records for purchases, sales, titles, and inspections.
  • Notify DMV of changes to ownership, location, or trade name.
  • Follow New Hampshire rules on temporary plates, safety inspections, and disclosures.