You do not need a dealer lot to get a Georgia dealer license. A properly zoned broker or dealer office is enough. It needs a proper sign with your business name, a public restroom, a working landline phone, a lockable file cabinet, and a desk and chairs.
No lot needed
Many people think they need a large car lot before they can become a dealer. In Georgia you can get licensed with a small office. These are often called broker offices or dealer offices. You can still buy and sell cars. You simply do not have to display them on your own lot.
Where to find an office
- Ask the broker or dealer office providers you meet at the pre-licensing seminar.
- Search Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for broker offices.
- Try broker office websites such as autobrokerofficesga.com and brokeroffice.rent.
Offices made for brokers and dealers often include a landline phone, a lockable cabinet and other required items in the rent, which saves you on extra utilities.
What the office must have
- Proper zoning for a broker or dealer office, with a zoning certification for your application. See zoning explained.
- A proper sign on your suite or lot with your business name.
- A public restroom.
- A working landline phone. The inspector will call it, so it must be an active line, not a dummy.
- A lockable file cabinet for your files.
- An office desk and chairs.
Mistakes to avoid
- Renting before checking zoning.
- No sign with your business name.
- A cell phone only, with no landline.
- Using the wrong business name on the sign.
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
Can I get a Georgia dealer license without a car lot?
Yes. A properly zoned broker or dealer office that meets the location requirements is enough.
What does a broker office need?
A proper sign, a public restroom, a working landline phone, a lockable file cabinet, a desk and chairs, and zoning approval.
Where do I find a broker office in Georgia?
Ask providers at the pre-licensing seminar, search Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, or use broker office websites.
Does the inspector call my phone?
The inspector calls your contact number before visiting, and calls your landline during the visit to check that it works.
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