Dealers · licensing · Maryland
How to get a dealer license in Maryland.
What it takes to get a used car dealer license in Maryland, with a link to the official page for every fact.
Checked October 10, 2026 against the official pages linked below. Licensing agency: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.
The requirements
| Licensing agency | Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration · source |
|---|---|
| Surety bond (used dealer) | $15,000-$150,000 by prior-year used sales (1-250: $15k; 251-500: $25k; 501-1,000: $35k; 1,001-2,500: $50k; 2,500+: $150k); new applicants min $15,000 based on estimated sales · source |
| Pre-licensing education | Required — MVA business licensing orientation before license issuance (monthly, online; hours not stated) · source |
| Place of business | Site inspection by MVA compliance inspector to confirm compliance with COMAR 11.12.01.03 before licensing (specific office/sign/lot standards not stated on page) · source |
| License fee | $300 (Dealer's License - Used Car) · source |
Steps
- Start with the licensing agency, Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration: read its dealer page and get the current application.
- Complete the pre-licensing education: MVA business licensing orientation before license issuance (monthly, online; hours not stated).
- Set up your place of business: Site inspection by MVA compliance inspector to confirm compliance with COMAR 11.12.01.03 before licensing (specific office/sign/lot standards not stated on page).
- Buy a surety bond: $15,000-$150,000 by prior-year used sales (1-250: $15k; 251-500: $25k; 501-1,000: $35k; 1,001-2,500: $50k; 2,500+: $150k); new applicants min $15,000 based on estimated sales.
- Submit the application with the fee: $300 (Dealer's License - Used Car).
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 Maryland; 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