A Georgia used car dealer license application includes a signed and notarized application with fee, zoning certification, a surety bond with power of attorney, a certificate of insurance, photographs of the business, proof of seminar completion, a background check, an affidavit of citizenship with a secure ID, and a preliminary inspection.
The checklist
- Completed, signed and notarized application with the fee, filed in the GOALS portal.
- Zoning certification (included in the application).
- Surety bond with power of attorney. Sign the bond, and attach and sign the power of attorney.
- Certificate of insurance (garage liability) showing the Board as the certificate holder at its current address.
- Photographs of your business.
- Proof of seminar completion.
- Background check (fingerprints).
- Secure and verifiable ID and the affidavit of citizenship.
- Preliminary inspection.
- If applicable: court documents and a letter of explanation for any arrest, conviction or board sanction, and immigration documents.
Photo checklist
- Your suite door, or your lot with your sign.
- The building index with your business name, if there is one.
- Your office desk setup.
- Your locking file cabinet.
- Your landline phone.
- The restroom, with its sign.
- A few general office photos.
The citizenship paper
The affidavit of citizenship does not mean you must be a citizen. It is a notarized document that proves you are in the United States legally. A work permit, a green card or any work authorization form works.
Make everything match
Your business name and commercial address must be identical on your application, surety bond and insurance certificate. The insurance certificate must show the Board's current address: 3920 Arkwright Rd, Suite 195, Macon, GA 31210. Some insurers still print an old address; if that happens, ask them to update it and send a new certificate before you submit.
Amounts and rules change. Confirm current requirements with the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers at (404) 424-9966 before you pay for anything.
Official sources
- Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers (Secretary of State)
- Secretary of State: How-to guide for used motor vehicle dealers
- Georgia Department of Revenue: Dealer registration (dealer license plates)
- GIADA: Pre-license class
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for a Georgia dealer license?
A notarized application, zoning certification, surety bond with power of attorney, certificate of insurance, photos of your business, seminar certificate, background check, ID and affidavit of citizenship, and a preliminary inspection.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to be a Georgia dealer?
The affidavit of citizenship is a notarized document showing you are in the United States legally. A work permit, green card or work authorization form can be used.
Does my application have to be notarized?
Yes. The application must be signed and notarized.
What address goes on the insurance certificate holder?
The Board: 3920 Arkwright Rd, Suite 195, Macon, GA 31210. Do not use an old address.
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