Dealers · licensing · Oregon
How to get a dealer license in Oregon.
What it takes to get a used car dealer license in Oregon, with a link to the official page for every fact.
Checked October 10, 2026 against the official pages linked below. Licensing agency: Oregon DMV, Business Licensing Unit.
The requirements
| Licensing agency | Oregon DMV, Business Licensing Unit · source |
|---|---|
| Surety bond (used dealer) | $50,000 for each year the certificate is valid (max $10,000 payable to non-retail-customer claimants) · source |
| Pre-licensing education | Required — 8 hours from a DMV-approved provider (renewal: 12 hours per 3-year certificate) · source |
| Place of business | Each location must have space to display at least one vehicle, a way for the public to contact the dealer during normal business hours, an exterior sign affixed to land or building with the dealership name, and the certificate displayed conspicuously; city/county location approval required (exemptions available for first three via Form 735-7178). · source |
| License fee | $1,188 original 3-year certificate (includes one plate); $350 per additional location · source |
Steps
- Start with the licensing agency, Oregon DMV, Business Licensing Unit: read its dealer page and get the current application.
- Complete the pre-licensing education: 8 hours from a DMV-approved provider (renewal: 12 hours per 3-year certificate).
- Set up your place of business: Each location must have space to display at least one vehicle, a way for the public to contact the dealer during normal business hours, an exterior sign affixed to land or building with the dealership name, and the certificate displayed conspicuously; city/county location approval required (exemptions available for first three via Form 735-7178).
- Buy a surety bond: $50,000 for each year the certificate is valid (max $10,000 payable to non-retail-customer claimants).
- Submit the application with the fee: $1,188 original 3-year certificate (includes one plate); $350 per additional location.
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 Oregon; 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