The first step to opening your new Nevada dealership is getting the appropriate license. Doing so requires completing a few technical details through the DMV that are essential to the process. The licensing application varies from state to state, so even if you already own a dealership in another state, you will still need to complete these steps to begin operations in Nevada. We have compiled a complete guide covering everything you need to know about putting together your dealership application so you get approved on the first attempt.
In the state of Nevada, there are different licenses based on the types of vehicles you plan to sell. Your first step is to determine the specialty of your dealership and proceed accordingly. Here are the license types 1 :
Note that in Nevada, there is no distinction between auto dealers engaged in used or new vehicle sales—both are covered by the same license.
New Nevada auto dealers are required to have a location before submitting a license application. There are a handful of attributes you will need to ensure you meet in order to have a qualifying location. These include:
Unlike many other states, Nevada has naming rules for dealerships, including some words that are not allowed to be included in the business name since they could be misleading. Words to be mindful of include wholesale (unless it is truly wholesale), loan, finance, and discount.
Anyone who is a principal or corporate officer of the dealership needs to submit one set of fingerprints taken at either the DMV or a law enforcement agency. 2
The amount you need will vary depending on what vehicles you are selling. For most new and used vehicles, the bond amount is $100,000. The cost of this bond will be a percentage of its total value and will largely depend on your personal financial history, including your credit score.
You’ll also need to get liability insurance and have the DMV listed as the holder. The DMV website outlines all insurance requirements, and the certificate has to be included with the materials you submit with your application.
Here’s your checklist of the items you’ll need to include with your application:
For Nevada applications, the fee is $126, plus a $38.25 fingerprint processing fee.
You can send your application to the nearest DMV Occupational Business Licensing Office:
555 Wright Way
Carson City, Nevada
89711-0100
(775) 684-4690
305 Galletti Way
Reno, Nevada 89512-3817
(775) 684-3564
2701 East Sahara Avenue
Las Vegas, Nevada
89104-4170
(702) 486-4930
8250 West Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89117-4111
(702) 486-8620
1399 American Pacific Drive
Henderson, Nevada
89074-4111
(702) 486-1371
Once your application is submitted and being processed, the DMV will arrange to inspect your site to ensure it meets all requirements.
This is not intended as legal advice. If you have questions about dealer licensing requirements, please seek the assistance of legal counsel.
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