: Ideal for those who only want to buy and sell through auctions or other dealers. These often have less stringent physical requirements—some states, like California, allow wholesalers to operate from a home address with no car lot.
: Required if you plan to sell directly to the general public. This typically necessitates a physical showroom, lot, and commercial signage. license to buy cars at auction
While requirements vary by state, the application process generally follows a standardized path: Auction Owner License - Ohio Dealer Licensing : Ideal for those who only want to
: Allows dealers to purchase vehicles without paying upfront sales tax on units intended for resale. This typically necessitates a physical showroom, lot, and
Choosing the right license depends on your business goals and the specific vehicles you intend to sell:
: Some states issue distinct licenses for specific markets, such as Dismantler licenses for salvage vehicles or Motorcycle licenses for two-wheeled vehicles. Steps to Getting Licensed