Lemon Law for Dealers: Understanding Your Obligations Lemon law dealer obligations sit at the intersection of consumer protection law, franchise agreements, and your own liability exposure — and mishandling them is one of the fastest ways to land in front of a state AG or a plaintiff’s attorney. If you’re running a franchise store, an … Read more
Red Flags Rule for Dealerships: Identity Theft Prevention Program This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult qualified legal counsel for compliance guidance specific to your dealership. — Bottom Line Up Front If your F&I office is processing credit applications, your store is a covered creditor under the Red Flags … Read more
Dealership Compliance Audit Checklist: Annual Self-Assessment This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult qualified legal counsel for compliance guidance specific to your dealership. If your annual compliance review is a one-hour HR training and a stack of forms no one actually reads, you’ve got exposure you probably don’t know … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front Your dealer license requires a surety bond — period. Car dealer surety bond requirements aren’t optional coverage; they’re regulatory mandates that keep your license active and protect consumers from dealer misconduct. Skip the bond or let it lapse, and your state DMV will suspend your license faster than you can say … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front Your advertising compliance obligations span federal and state regulations that govern everything from your VDP pricing to radio spot disclaimers. Car dealer advertising compliance isn’t optional — the FTC, state attorneys general, and consumer protection agencies actively monitor dealership marketing across digital and traditional channels. Violations can trigger civil penalties, consent … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front: Your Pennsylvania Dealer Licensing Essentials Getting your car dealer license Pennsylvania requires navigating the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) licensing system, posting a surety bond, securing a compliant lot location, and maintaining ongoing compliance requirements. Whether you’re opening your first store or adding a rooftop, Pennsylvania’s licensing process is straightforward but … Read more
Bottom Line: What You Need to Get Licensed in Ohio Getting your car dealer license in Ohio means navigating the state’s Motor Vehicle Dealer Board requirements, securing appropriate bonding, and establishing a compliant physical location. Ohio requires all motor vehicle dealers to maintain specific insurance coverage, pass background checks, and demonstrate financial responsibility through surety … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front: North Carolina Car Dealer License Essentials Getting your car dealer license North Carolina requires meeting strict financial, location, and operational requirements before you can legally sell vehicles. You’ll need a qualifying physical location, substantial surety bond, comprehensive insurance coverage, and clean background checks for all principals. The North Carolina Division of … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front: Michigan Dealer Licensing Essentials Getting a car dealer license Michigan requires navigating the Michigan Secretary of State’s licensing process, which involves meeting specific facility requirements, posting a dealer bond, and demonstrating financial responsibility. You’ll need a permanent business location with proper zoning, adequate lot space for vehicle display, and compliance with … Read more
Bottom Line Up Front: Illinois Dealer Licensing Essentials Getting your car dealer license in Illinois means navigating the Illinois Secretary of State’s Motor Vehicle Services Division requirements. You’ll need a clean background, adequate capitalization, a compliant physical location, and a dealer bond ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 depending on your operation type. The process typically … Read more
