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Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Bonds


What is a Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?

In order for Virginia motor vehicle dealers to meet legal licensing requirements set out by the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board, a surety bond is required. The surety bond must be posted per the provisions of Section 46.2-1527.2 of the Virginia Code in an amount of $50,000 for car dealers.

Dealers of trailers, travel trailers, motor homes and motorcycles (including ATVs and off-road motorcycles) in Virginia must post a Motorcycle, Trailer or T and M Vehicle Dealer Bond in the amount of $25,000.

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Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond

$50,000 Bond

Motorcycle, Trailer or T and M Vehicle Dealer Bond

$25,000 Bond

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Why is a Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Required?

The purpose of the corporate surety bond is to indemnify any party who becomes a victim of fraud, fraudulent representation, or suffers damages or losses as a result of the motor vehicle dealer’s breach of an extended service contract. The bond also protects those harmed by the principal, or salespeople employed by the principal, as a result of any violations of the provisions of Chapter 15, Title 46.2 of The Code of Virginia.

In the event of damages resulting from non-compliance by the bonded principal, the surety may be obligated to reimburse damaged parties up to the full amount of the bond. The bond continues in force indefinitely unless canceled by the surety company by providing 30 days written notice to the Motor Vehicle Board of Virginia.

Motor Vehicle Dealer Bonds And Getting Your Virginia Business License/Registration

The following is an overview of key licensing requirements to become an auto dealer in Virginia.

  • Satisfy all local zoning regulations in your chosen locality.
  • Have sales, service, and office space devoted exclusively to the dealership of at least 250 square feet in a permanent, enclosed building not used as a residence.
  • House all records the dealer is required to maintain by the Code of Virginia.
  • Equip your office space with a desk, chairs, filing space, a working telephone listed in the name of the dealership, and working utilities including electricity and provisions for space heating, an internet connection and email address.
  • Display business hours and a sign as required by the Code of Virginia, respectively. A dealer must be open a minimum of 20 hours per week. 10 of these hours must be between 9am. - 5pm. Monday through Friday.
  • Have contiguous space designated for the exclusive use of the dealer adequate to permit the display of at least ten vehicles.
  • Pass the required dealer test administered at your local area Department of Motor Vehicle, Customer Service Center. A study guide may be found and downloaded from our website.
  • Secure a $50,000 or $25,000 surety bond as required.
  • Complete and submit to the board all necessary application forms, which can be found and downloaded from our website.
  • Pay fees totaling about $600.00.
  • Additional items may be needed and exact requirements may vary based on applicant, license type or obligee discretion. Please see obligee and state links in the Other Helpful Information and Links section below or contact the obligee directly for more information.

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Get Started » or, if you'd prefer, call us at 1-800-608-9950
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