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California Auto Dealer Bond$50,000 DMV Requirement

Get your California auto dealer bond (DMV Form OL 25) with same-day approval. Required $50,000 bond for all California car dealers. A-rated carriers, competitive rates starting at $500/year, all credit types accepted.

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All Credit Types

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$50,000
Bond Amount
$500+
Starting Cost
1 Day
Processing Time
Annual
Bond Term

California DMV Dealer Licensing Requirements

Complete requirements for obtaining an auto dealer license in California, including the mandatory $50,000 surety bond (DMV Form OL 25).

Required Documents & Bonds

  • Complete California DMV dealer license application
  • $50,000 auto dealer surety bond (DMV Form OL 25)
  • Garage liability insurance ($1,000,000 minimum)
  • Established place of business with proper zoning
  • Valid California business license
  • Seller's permit from CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration
  • Sales tax bond or deposit (if applicable)
  • Fingerprint and background check
  • Pass DMV facility inspection

Bond Details

Obligee
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Form Number
DMV Form OL 25
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

California Dealer License Types

All dealer types require the $50,000 bond

New Car Dealer

Used Car Dealer

Wholesale Dealer

Auto Auction

How to Get Your California Dealer License

Follow these steps to obtain your dealer license

1

Get Your Bond

Apply online and receive your $50,000 bond within 1 business day

2

Prepare Documents

Gather required documents including insurance, business license, and permits

3

Submit to DMV

Complete application, pass facility inspection, and receive your license

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about California auto dealer bonds

How much does a California auto dealer bond cost?

California auto dealer bonds ($50,000) cost $500-$5,000 annually 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 rates for all credit levels with same-day approval.

What is DMV Form OL 25 in California?

DMV Form OL 25 is the official California auto dealer bond form. This $50,000 surety bond must be filed with your dealer license application. The bond protects consumers from dealer fraud, unpaid fees, or violation of motor vehicle laws. You can obtain this bond through our online system with same-day approval.

How long does California DMV dealer licensing take?

California DMV dealer licensing typically takes 4-8 weeks from application to approval. The bond can be issued within 1 business day. Other requirements like facility inspection and fingerprinting 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 California?

Yes, California requires both a $50,000 surety bond (DMV Form OL 25) and garage liability insurance ($1,000,000 minimum). The bond protects consumers from licensing violations, while insurance covers property damage and liability claims. Both are mandatory for DMV dealer licensing.

Can I get a California dealer bond with bad credit?

Yes, we have specialized programs for all credit situations. We've secured California 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 carriers to find the best solution.

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

The surety company investigates claims filed by consumers or the 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 DMV regulations and consumer protection laws to avoid claims.

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

No, California requires the same $50,000 bond (DMV Form OL 25) for both new and used vehicle dealers. All dealer types - franchised, independent, wholesale, or auction - need this bond for DMV licensing, regardless of vehicle type sold.

How do I renew my California auto dealer bond?

California 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 DMV.

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.

Get Your California Auto Dealer Bond Today

Same-day approval • 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
DMV Form OL 25
All Credit Accepted