How to Get Your Independent Auto Dealer License in South Carolina
Updated June 2025
Snapshot: You can be fully licensed in about a month if you finish the mandatory 8-hour pre-licensing course, line up a $50,000 surety bond, prep an approved location, and pass an SCDMV inspection. Better Dealer Training guides you through every step—then backs you up with a full year of on-call support at no extra charge.
Step-by-Step Checklist
Step-by-Step/What to do/Key details & documents
1. Attend the 8-hour pre-licensing course Required for every non-franchise dealer. Bring the original certificate with your application. https://scdmvonline.com
2. Register your business Form an LLC or corporation and obtain an EIN. You’ll attach proof of business registration to Form DLA-1. www.Sos.sc.gov
3. Secure a qualified location Permanent structure ≥ 96 sq ft, permanent sign (6-in letters) & display lot (~2,000 sq ft).Include a site diagram and request a pre-inspection.https://scdmvonline.com
4. Obtain garage-liability insurance Needed before SCDMV will issue dealer or demo plates. Policy must be in the dealership’s name, not personal auto. www.BetterDealerTraining.com can help with providers of this policy.
5. Purchase a $50,000 surety bond File Form DLA-1B with Power of Attorney. Wholesalers can post $25,000; retail used-car dealers must post $50.000. www.BetterDealerTraining.com can help with providers for bonds.
6. Meet city / county zoning rules Provide local business license or “no-requirements” letter. SCDMV rejects apps without this proof. Get more info at https://scdmvonline.com or www.BetterDealerTraining.com
7. Complete background & eligibility checks SLED report (≤ 90 days old) + Affidavit AD-808A for every 10 %+ owner. Criminal history involving title fraud or odometers is disqualifying. https://premierbiotech.com
8. Submit your application & schedule inspection Mail or email packet to the Business License Unit, then pass the on-site inspection. License fee $50; dealer plates $20 ea. https://scdmvonline.com
Why Applicants Get Stuck (and How We Fix It)
Common roadblock…Our solution
Paperwork confusion We provide a pre-filled application template and review it before you submit.
Bond & insurance shopping Dealer-only referral list with pre-negotiated discounts.
Compliance questions after class12-month hotline: ask before fines pile up. We’re here for YOU!
Meet Your Instructor: Squeekie Henry
30+ years in the car business: porter → salesperson → licensed dealer → master instructor
4,000+ Carolina dealers trained through CIADA and now Better Dealer Training
Teaching style: plain English, real forms on screen, zero fluff
FAQs
How much is the South Carolina dealer bond?
Retail motor-vehicle and wholesale dealers must post a $50 k bond; motorcycle-only dealers post $25 k. Premiums generally run 1 %–10 % of the bond amount depending on credit.
Do I need a separate salesperson license?
No—SC issues one dealer license that covers owners and employees, but each salesperson must be listed on the application.
How long does the whole process take?
Typical timeline is 3–5 weeks if your location is ready and paperwork is complete. Questions? https://BetterDealerTraining.com
Ready to Start?
Reserve your seat in the next 8-hour SC Pre-Licensing class.
Download the free “Dealer Launch Checklist.”
Book a 30-minute strategy call—no cost, no obligation.
Enroll today and get *lifetime* access to our private “Dealer Launchpad” Slack community.
Resources & Next Reads
SCDMV Dealer Licenses (official) – https://scdmvonline.com
“Do I Need Garage Liability Insurance?” – internal blog post
“Surety Bond 101 for Dealers” – internal blog post
Want a “straight-talk/no obligation” consult/call/email? Squeekie@betterdealertraining.com
(704) 473-5258
Copyright © 2025 Better Dealer Training. Information is believed accurate as of publication; always verify requirements with the SCDMV.
