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Dealers · licensing · Idaho

How to get a dealer license in Idaho.

What it takes to get a used car dealer license in Idaho, with a link to the official page for every fact.

Checked October 10, 2026 against the official pages linked below. Licensing agency: Idaho Transportation Department, DMV Dealer Operations.

The requirements

Licensing agency Idaho Transportation Department, DMV Dealer Operations · source
Surety bond (used dealer) $20,000 retail ($40,000 wholesale-only; $10,000 motorcycle/ATV/UTV etc.) + $300 ICAR fund fee · source
Pre-licensing education Required — 8 hours pre-licensing + closed-book exam (used-only & wholesale-only); 4 hrs annual CE · source
Place of business Enclosed commercial structure in proper zoning; locking office with desk, files, listed phone; display area for 5+ vehicles (retail); permanent exterior sign (24 sq ft recommended); not in a dwelling · source
License fee $190 initial dealer license (+ $300 ICAR fee for retail) · source

Steps

  1. Start with the licensing agency, Idaho Transportation Department, DMV Dealer Operations: read its dealer page and get the current application.
  2. Complete the pre-licensing education: 8 hours pre-licensing + closed-book exam (used-only & wholesale-only); 4 hrs annual CE.
  3. Set up your place of business: Enclosed commercial structure in proper zoning; locking office with desk, files, listed phone; display area for 5+ vehicles (retail); permanent exterior sign (24 sq ft recommended); not in a dwelling.
  4. Buy a surety bond: $20,000 retail ($40,000 wholesale-only; $10,000 motorcycle/ATV/UTV etc.) + $300 ICAR fund fee.
  5. Submit the application with the fee: $190 initial dealer license (+ $300 ICAR fee for retail).

Built from the facts above. Insurance, background checks and zoning rules may also apply; the agency's page has the full list.

Planning to finance your own deals?

In-house financing can need its own license in some states. This summary has no note on one for Idaho; ask the state's financial regulator before you write your first contract.

This is a summary, not legal advice. The agency's own page governs. All states