The main costs of a Georgia dealer license are the application fee (about $170 plus any service charges), the surety bond (premiums reported from about $250 for two years), garage liability insurance (from about $1,500 per year, depending on your age and driving record), the pre-licensing seminar (about $159 at one provider), fingerprints, and your office rent.
Prices vary by provider and change over time. Treat these as starting points, and confirm current amounts before you pay.
The costs
| Item | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | About $170, plus any surcharges or service charges |
| Surety bond ($50,000 bond) | Premiums reported from about $250 for the two-year term |
| Garage liability insurance | From about $1,500 per year |
| Pre-licensing seminar | About $159 at one provider; varies |
| Fingerprints (IdentoGO) | A fee set by the provider |
| Office / broker office | Your monthly rent |
| Business registration, EIN, sales tax number | LLC filing fee; EIN is free |
Surety bond
The bond is $50,000, but you pay only a premium. It starts around $250 and rises with weaker credit. It covers two years. See what a surety bond is.
Insurance
Garage liability insurance depends on your age and driving record. Premiums start around $1,500 for a year, and you can usually make payments with the insurance company. Insurance is a one-year term, unlike the two-year bond.
Other costs
- Dealer plates after licensing: a master plate and additional plates, with reported fees.
- Renewal every two years, with six hours of continuing education.
- Notary for your application.
Ways to save
- Choose a broker office that includes a landline and lockable cabinet in the rent.
- Shop several bond and insurance agencies.
- Get your paperwork right the first time so you do not pay twice.
Want every step walked through with real document samples and direct links? See the Car Dealer Society course.
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
How much does a Georgia dealer license cost?
Plan on about $170 for the application plus service charges, a bond premium that can start around $250, insurance from about $1,500 per year, the seminar, fingerprints and your office rent.
Is the dealer bond price $50,000?
No. The bond amount is $50,000, but you pay a premium that starts around $250 for the two-year bond.
How much is garage liability insurance for a dealer?
It starts around $1,500 per year and depends on your age and driving record. You can usually make payments.
Is the EIN free?
Yes. The IRS gives EINs away free. Never pay a website for one.
Keep reading
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