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Dealer License by State
Ohio dealer license overview
Unofficial summary – verify with state regulator

Ohio Motor Vehicle Dealer License Requirements – 2025 Overview

To regularly sell vehicles for profit in Ohio you must be licensed through the Ohio BMV Dealer Licensing Section. This overview focuses on used motor vehicle dealers and highlights key requirements, bond amounts, and application steps.

Important: This is an unofficial summary, not legal or compliance advice. Statutes, rules, and forms change. Always confirm details with the official Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles – Dealer Licensing Section resources before you apply or make business decisions.

1. Who regulates dealers in Ohio?

Dealer licensing in Ohio is handled by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) – Dealer Licensing Section. Used dealers also interact with the Ohio Attorney General for the required title‑defect surety bond.

2. Ohio dealer license types (used‑focused)

Ohio issues several license categories. For most independent retail operations, you are choosing between New Motor Vehicle Dealer and Used Motor Vehicle Dealer, but there are other specialized categories.

  • New Motor Vehicle Dealer – sells new vehicles under franchise agreements.
  • Used Motor Vehicle Dealer – sells used vehicles at retail; may buy from auctions.
  • Motorcycle / APV Dealer – for motorcycles and all‑purpose vehicles.
  • Leasing Dealer, Manufacturer, and other niche categories.

The bond, educational course requirement, and application packet differ slightly by license type, so confirm you are using the correct forms.

3. Ohio business location, lot, and sign requirements

Ohio requires a permanent place of business that will be inspected by BMV Investigations before or after license issuance.

  • A permanent, enclosed office with a desk, chair, and record‑storage.
  • A clearly defined display area for vehicles you sell.
  • A permanent business sign displaying the dealership name, visible from the roadway.
  • Posted business hours consistent with the hours provided on the application.
  • Zoning approval or a zoning letter from the local authority showing the location may be used as a dealership.

Photos of the office, lot, sign, and posted hours are typically submitted with the application, and the investigator will verify that the business is actually operating during the posted hours.

4. Entity, taxes, education course, fingerprints, and bond

4.1 Business entity and tax registration

  • Register your business name and entity through the Ohio Secretary of State.
  • Obtain a FEIN from the IRS and register with the Ohio Department of Taxation.
  • Set up your vendor’s license and sales‑tax accounts as required.

4.2 Used‑dealer education course

First‑time used motor vehicle dealer applicants must complete a state‑approved 6‑hour pre‑licensing education course. You will submit your certificate of completion with the application.

4.3 Background checks and financial requirements

  • Owners / partners may be required to submit fingerprints and background checks.
  • Ohio requires proof of at least $75,000 net worth for used dealers, documented on the application’s financial section.

4.4 Surety bond and insurance

  • Ohio used motor vehicle dealers must file a $25,000 Motor Vehicle Title Defect Surety Bond with the Ohio Attorney General and provide a copy to BMV with the application.
  • Maintain appropriate garage liability / dealer insurance and list any dealer plates you will be using.

5. Ohio dealer license application steps

  1. Decide on the correct license type (most independents: Used Motor Vehicle Dealer).
  2. Form your business entity and obtain tax IDs.
  3. Secure a compliant business location, sign, and zoning approval.
  4. Complete the required 6‑hour pre‑licensing course (used dealers).
  5. Obtain your $25,000 surety bond and dealer insurance.
  6. Gather required photos (office, lot, sign, posted hours) and supporting documents.
  7. Complete the official BMV dealer license application and submit all fees.
  8. Pass the BMV Investigator inspection of your place of business.

6. After approval: ongoing Ohio dealer compliance

  • Renew your dealer license and bond before expiration (Ohio licenses typically renew annually).
  • Maintain your place‑of‑business standards, sign, and posted hours.
  • Keep complete records of all vehicle sales, titles, and odometer disclosures.
  • Follow Ohio advertising rules and BMV regulations for temporary tags and title delivery.