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Virginia Auto Dealer Bond$50,000 DMV Required

Get your Virginia auto dealer bond with same-day approval. Required $50,000 bond (3-year initial term) for all Virginia motor vehicle dealers. A-rated carriers, competitive rates, all credit types accepted.

1-Day Approval
3-Year Initial Term
A-Rated Carriers
All Credit Types
Updated December 23, 2024 - 2025 Requirements Verified

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$500+
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Virginia DMV Dealer Licensing Requirements

Complete requirements for obtaining an auto dealer license in Virginia, including the mandatory $50,000 surety bond (3-year initial term).

Required Documents & Bonds

  • Complete Virginia DMV dealer license application
  • $50,000 auto dealer surety bond (3-year initial term)
  • Garage liability insurance ($100,000 minimum)
  • Established place of business with proper zoning
  • Valid Virginia business registration
  • Sales tax registration with Virginia Tax Department
  • Approved business location inspection
  • Background check and fingerprinting
  • Business plan and financial statements

Bond Details

Obligee
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Bond Amount
$50,000
Bond Term
3 Years (first 3 years only), then annual renewals
Premium Range
$500-$5,000 (3-year initial term)
Bond Purpose
Protects consumers from dealer fraud, unpaid fees, or violations of motor vehicle laws
Claim Coverage
Up to $50,000 per occurrence for valid consumer claims

How to Get Your Virginia Dealer Bond

Simple process, fast approval

1

Complete Application

Fill out our simple online application in minutes. Provide basic business information and personal details for the bond application.

2

Get Approved

Receive approval within 1 business day. We work with A-rated carriers to secure the best rates for all credit levels.

3

File with VA DMV

Receive your bond documents electronically. File with Virginia DMV along with your dealer license application and other required documents.

Serving Auto Dealers Across Virginia

We provide dealer bonds to all Virginia cities and counties

Virginia Beach
Norfolk
Chesapeake
Richmond
Newport News
Alexandria
Hampton
Roanoke
Portsmouth
Suffolk
Lynchburg
Harrisonburg
Leesburg
Charlottesville
Blacksburg

And all other Virginia cities and counties

Written by BuySuretyBonds.com
Licensed surety bond agency operating nationwide with direct integrations to Treasury-certified surety carriers. Our platform enables instant approval for license and notary bonds, with 24-48 hour underwriting for commercial bonds. All content is researched from official state and federal sources (.gov) and reviewed by licensed insurance professionals.

Understanding Virginia Auto Dealer Bonds

Virginia requires all motor vehicle dealers to post a $50,000 surety bond for an initial 3-year term before obtaining a dealer license. This bond serves as a financial guarantee that dealers will comply with state motor vehicle laws, pay required taxes and fees, and operate ethically.

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) mandates this bond to protect consumers from fraudulent practices, ensure payment of state fees, and provide recourse for individuals harmed by dealer misconduct. After the initial 3-year term, the bond converts to annual renewals.

How Virginia Dealer Bonds Work

When you purchase a Virginia auto dealer bond, the surety company guarantees to the Virginia DMV that you will:

  • Properly handle title transfers and registrations
  • Pay all sales taxes and registration fees
  • Provide truthful advertising and vehicle condition disclosure
  • Comply with odometer disclosure requirements
  • Honor warranties and service commitments
  • Maintain required business records
  • Operate from an established, properly zoned location
  • Follow all Virginia consumer protection laws

Important: Bond vs Insurance

Your dealer bond protects consumers, not your business. If a claim is paid by the surety, you must reimburse the full amount plus legal costs. This makes the bond a form of credit, not insurance. Maintain strict compliance to avoid costly claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Virginia auto dealer bonds

How much does a Virginia auto dealer bond cost?

Virginia auto dealer bonds ($50,000 for 3 years initially) cost $500-$5,000 depending on credit. With excellent credit (750+), expect $500-$1,000 (1-2%). Good credit (680-749) costs $1,000-$2,000 (2-4%). Fair credit (620-679) ranges $2,000-$3,500 (4-7%). Lower credit may require up to $5,000 (10%). We offer competitive 3-year rates for all credit levels with same-day approval.

Why is the Virginia dealer bond 3 years for the first term?

Virginia requires a 3-year bond term for the initial dealer license. After the first three years, the bond converts to annual renewals. This longer initial term provides stability and ensures new dealers maintain continuous coverage during their startup phase.

How long does Virginia DMV dealer licensing take?

Virginia DMV dealer licensing typically takes 4-8 weeks from application to approval. The bond can be issued within 1 business day. Other requirements like location inspection and background checks add to the timeline. Start your bond application early to avoid delays in your licensing process.

Do I need both a bond and insurance in Virginia?

Yes, Virginia requires both a $50,000 surety bond and garage liability insurance ($100,000 minimum). The bond protects consumers from licensing violations and dealer misconduct, while insurance covers property damage and liability claims. Both are mandatory for Virginia DMV dealer licensing.

Can I get a Virginia dealer bond with bad credit?

Yes, we have specialized programs for all credit situations. We've secured Virginia dealer bonds for applicants with credit scores as low as 500. Rates vary based on credit, but approval is often possible. Our underwriters work with multiple A-rated carriers to find the best solution for your situation.

What happens if someone files a claim against my Virginia dealer bond?

The surety company investigates claims filed by consumers or the Virginia DMV. If valid, they pay up to $50,000. You must then reimburse the surety for amounts paid plus legal costs. Maintain compliance with all Virginia DMV regulations and consumer protection laws to avoid claims.

Does Virginia require different bonds for new vs used car dealers?

No, Virginia requires the same $50,000 bond for both new and used vehicle dealers. All motor vehicle dealer types need this bond for Virginia DMV licensing. The bond amount is consistent regardless of whether you sell new, used, or both types of vehicles.

How do I renew my Virginia auto dealer bond?

After the initial 3-year term, Virginia dealer bonds renew annually. We send renewal reminders 60 days before expiration. Most renewals are approved within 1 business day with updated pricing based on current credit. Never let your bond lapse - it results in immediate license suspension by the Virginia DMV.

Get Your Virginia Auto Dealer Bond Today

Same-day approval • 3-year initial term • All credit types • A-rated carriers

📋 Get Your Auto Dealer Contractor Bond Quote

Fast approval • Competitive rates

✓Fast approval•✓A- rated carriers•✓All 50 states
1-Day Approval
3-Year Initial Term
All Credit Accepted