Oklahoma Auto Dealer License Guide
SuretyBonds.com does not oversee auto dealer licensing in Oklahoma. Contact the Oklahoma Motor Vehicle Commission for current requirements.
How to Get an Oklahoma Dealer License
If you sell new, used, or wholesale vehicles in Oklahoma, you need an auto dealer license. Continue reading for step-by-step application instructions, renewal information and a total cost breakdown.
Which License Do I Need?
Oklahoma issues three different motor vehicle dealer licenses, regulated by either the New Motor Vehicle Commission (ONMVC) or the Used Motor Vehicle Dismantler and Manufactured Housing Commission (OUMVDMHC).
| License Type | Description |
|---|---|
| New Motor Vehicle Dealer (ONMVC) | Sells only new automobiles and trucks directly to the public (no motorcycles, RVs or used vehicles) |
| Used Motor Vehicle Dealer (OUMVDMHC) | Sells used vehicles directly to the public. |
| Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer (OUMVDMHC) | Sells used vehicles to other dealers, but not directly to the public. |
If you’re applying as a used motor vehicle dealer, you must select one of the following license types on your form:
- Used motor vehicle dealer license
- Franchised used motor vehicle dealer license (for new vehicle dealers to also sell used vehicles)
- Used motor vehicle dealer auction license
- Secondary location license
How Do I Register My Business in Oklahoma?
Before applying for your license, choose a business structure and register with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. All auto dealers must have a permanent business location in Oklahoma.
You must also get a sales tax permit from the Oklahoma Tax Commission and a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) from the Internal Revenue Service.
Note: If your county or city requires an additional business license, contact your local licensing office for more information.
How to Apply for an Oklahoma Auto Dealer License
Your application process will vary based on your license type. After registering your business, follow the steps below to get your Oklahoma auto dealer license.
New Motor Vehicle Dealer License
If you’re establishing a new dealership or purchasing an existing one, fill out the new motor vehicle dealer application packet and attach the following supporting documents:
- Company Balance Sheet or Pro Forma from the last 60 days
- Business history
- Affidavit of extended service contracts
- List of licensed manufacturers and distributors
- Photos of the lot
- Dealer and management agreements
- $25 fee
Then, get the form notarized and mail all materials to the address below:
Oklahoma Motor Vehicle Commission
4334 N.W. Expressway
Suite 183
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
The Board considers new dealer applications on the second Tuesday of each month. You must submit all documents eight days prior. The Board may also choose to conduct a facility inspection before approval.
Note: Each franchise must be licensed separately. There is no surety bond or prelicensing education requirement.
Used and Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer Licenses
Step 1: Complete an investigation report
First, complete a report by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) that includes name-based, sex offender and violent offender searches.
Step 2: Get a surety bond
Next, you need a $25,0000 Oklahoma motor vehicle dealer bond to protect the state and your clients from financial harm. You can apply online — annual premiums start at $125.
Secondary lot applicants must purchase a separate bond and submit an amended certificate of insurance.
Step 3: Purchase garage liability insurance
All used and wholesale dealers need $25,000 single limit garage liability insurance coverage. Your insurance agent must complete your certificate of insurance in your application packet.
Step 4: Apply
Next, complete either the used vehicle dealer or wholesale dealer application online through the OUMVDMHC portal. Upload the following supporting documents:
- OSBI report
- Personal history questionnaire
- Driver’s license
- Financial statements for all owners and the corporation
- Garage liability insurance policy
- Dealer surety bond form
- Certificate of incorporation
- Photos of your office/lot and proof of an on-site phone
- Permit from your city or county demonstrating lot zoning approval
- Approval from a county inspector
The Commission reviews applications on the second Tuesday of each month. Submit your application at least 11 days prior.
Step 5: Attend an education course
Before the Commission can issue your license, you must attend the prelicensing education program and bring sample copies of your approved condition of sale documents. Courses are held on the Monday before the monthly Commission meeting.
Oklahoma Auto Dealer Licensing FAQs
How Do I Renew My License?
If you’re a new motor vehicle dealer, you must renew each franchise license separately by June 1 each year. Your license will expire on June 30. The Commission will contact you with renewal information.
Oklahoma used and wholesale motor vehicle dealer licenses expire on December 31 of odd-numbered years. You can renew online through your OUMVDMHC account. Note that a lapse in bond coverage or insurance will result in automatic revocation of your license.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Auto Dealer License in Oklahoma?
You will pay the following application fees to get an Oklahoma dealer’s license based on your specific license type.
| License Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| New Motor Vehicle Dealer License | $300 per franchise |
| Used Motor Vehicle Dealer License | $600 |
| Franchised Used Motor Vehicle Dealer License | $200 |
| Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Auction License | $600 |
| Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Secondary Location | $200 |
| Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer License | $600 |
| Salesperson Registration | $50 per person |
You’ll also need to consider the indirect costs of business registration and lot maintenance. Used and wholesale dealers must purchase a surety bond and garage insurance as well.
Can I Employ Salespersons?
In Oklahoma, only new and used motor vehicle dealers can employ salespersons. All salespersons must register by submitting the following documents:
- Salesperson registration form
- $50 fee
- OSBI report
- Driver’s license
New vehicle dealers can receive one free salesperson registration by submitting the Gratis form included in the application packet.
What Are the Lot Signage Requirements?
Both new and used vehicle dealers must have an outdoor sign that meets the following criteria:
- Matches the exact name on your application
- At least 32 square feet in size
- Lettering at least six feet tall
- Permanently mounted (no banners)
- Visible from nearest roadway
Wholesale vehicle dealers only need a sign that shows the location of the business.
Do I Need a Lot to Apply for a License?
Yes, new and used vehicle dealers must have a lot prior to applying for the license. Your lot needs to be a permanent structure separate from any other residence or business, and it also must have a public restroom.
Wholesale dealers don’t need a separate building, so you can use any room in your house as long as it’s not used for any other purpose.
What Photos of My Lot Do I Need to Submit?
New vehicle dealers must submit photos of the following:
- Showroom
- Front of the building
- Outdoor sign
- Parts area
- Service area
- Exhaust system in service area (unless you only sell electric vehicles)
Used vehicle dealers need to show the outside of their sales office, lot and sign. Wholesale dealers only need to submit a photo of the business showing the building address.
How Many Cars Can I Sell Without a Dealer's License in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma doesn’t have a legal limit on how many cars you can sell personally without a license. However, under 47 OK Stat § 581, you must have a license to conduct sales for business or commercial purposes. Anyone selling cars for profit should be licensed.
Are Small Car Dealerships Profitable?
Yes, small dealerships can still be profitable since their revenue doesn’t rely on car sales alone. According to Edmunds, nearly half (49.6%) of a dealership’s gross profit comes from its service and parts department. So, even if a smaller lot sells fewer vehicles than a larger one, it can generate steady income from customers who return for maintenance and repairs.
Last Updated: April 15, 2026
