Connecticut Auto Dealer, Repairer or Leasing Bond Overview
- Purpose: To guarantee that licensees comply with state laws and regulations
- Who Needs It: All vehicle dealers, repairers and rental/leasing companies in Connecticut
- Regulating Body: The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
- Bond Amount: $10,000–$60,000, based on license type
- Minimum Price: 1% flat rate for repairers and leasers, 0.5% for dealer bonds
What Is a Connecticut Auto Dealer, Repairer or Leasing Bond?
This bond protects the public from fraudulent or negligent acts by vehicle dealers, repairers and leasing professionals. The Connecticut DMV requires a surety bond to apply for any of these licenses.
Bond Coverage Requirements for Connecticut Auto Professionals
Your required bond amount depends on your license type.
| License Type | Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| Limited Repairer | $10,000 |
| Leasing or Rental Company* | $15,000 |
| General Repairer | $25,000 |
| New or Used Vehicle Dealer | $60,000 |
*Only required if you rent or lease vehicles for periods of 30+ days.
How Much Do Auto Dealer, Repairer or Leasing Bonds Cost in Connecticut?
Your cost will vary depending on your bond amount:
- $10,000 limited repairer bond: Flat rate of $100
- $15,000 leasing bond: Flat rate of $150
- $25,000 repairer bond: Flat rate of $250
- $60,000 dealer bond: Rates start at $300 (0.5%). Requires a soft credit check.
If your bond is available for instant purchase, you can also choose a multi-year term and save up to 25%. Buy or apply for your bond now.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Connecticut Auto Dealer, Repairer or Leasing Bond Work?
A Connecticut auto dealer, repairer or leasing bond is a legal contract between you, the state and the surety.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | The auto dealer, repairer or leasing professional |
| Obligee | The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles requiring the bond |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
By filing the bond, you promise to uphold all state motor vehicle regulations. This includes representing vehicles honestly and complying with consumer protection requirements.
If you break the law, harmed parties can file claims to recover losses. The surety will pay valid claims up to your full bond amount. It’s then your responsibility to refund the surety.
How Do I Get an Auto Dealer Bond in Connecticut?
Getting bonded is quick and easy with SuretyBonds.com. Start by filling out the quick form on this page.
- Bonds up to $25,000 are available for instant purchase.
- The $60,000 vehicle dealer bond requires a soft credit check to determine pricing. We issue quotes within one business day.
You’ll get the official form right away via email. Be sure to file it along with your license application.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, bond amounts up to $25,000 don’t require a credit check! For the $60,000 dealer bond, we’ll run a soft check to determine your rate and eligibility. Apply for a free quote today.
How Do I Renew My Dealer Bond?
Connecticut dealer bonds are valid for one year. When it’s almost time to renew, we’ll send you reminders and an invoice. Simply pay the premium to extend your bond for another term.
How Do I Update My Bond Information?
If you need to update your bond amount or company information, email [email protected]. We’ll issue a bond rider or new bond form, depending on the change.
How to Become an Auto Dealer, Repairer or Leasing Professional in Connecticut
The Connecticut DMV manages licensing for all auto professionals. Your exact application process will vary based on the license type, but you’ll generally need to:
- Establish a permanent business location.
- Register with the state.
- Get a surety bond in the correct amount.
- Complete the application form and attach all documents as found on the DMV website.
You can refer to the DMV application instructions packet for more detailed information.
Once complete, mail all materials to the address below:
Department of Motor Vehicles - Dealers and Repairers Unit
Room 102
60 State St., Wethersfield, CT 06161-2011
You must renew your license every two years and keep an active surety bond.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Dealer License in CT?
The cost of getting an auto dealer, repairer or leasing license varies greatly based on the following fees.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $140 |
| New Car Dealer License | $700 |
| Used Car Dealer License | $560 |
| Leasing Company License | $300 |
| General or Limited Repairer License | $340 |
| Dealer or Repairer Plate | $140/plate |
| Safety Plate | $5/plate |
| Surety Bond | $100+ |
Note that if you’re a used dealer or repairer, you can only request up to three plates initially.
What Are the Site Requirements?
To apply for a license, you’ll need a zoning Certificate of Approval from your local municipality. Your building must also meet the following criteria:
- General or Limited Repairer: A building that can hold at least one vehicle for repair, with an office and storage space for parts
- New or Used Car Dealer: A display lot, a repair area that can fit at least two vehicles, and an office space
- Leasing Professional: A display lot and permanent office space
Depending on your license type, you’ll also need to display certain signs, such as customer rights and fee information.
