Alert
Branch office wait times are currently not being displayed properly as we are transitioning to a new queuing system. We are working on resolving this issue and apologize for any inconvenience.
SC DMVBranch office wait times are currently not being displayed properly as we are transitioning to a new queuing system. We are working on resolving this issue and apologize for any inconvenience.
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Dealer Requirements
Inspection
Non-Franchise Dealers (Pre-Licensing Course)
National Criminal Search
Renewing A Dealer License
Surety Bond
Tips to Remember
IMPORTANT CHANGE! The agency is currently transitioning from issuing plates in the branch offices (BO) to issuing plates on-demand. This process will ensure a seamless changeover for the upcoming (EDRP) implementation. Effective immediately, please prepare for the changes in issuance of your dealership decals and registration cards and new plates and registration cards. Review changes here.
Types of Dealer Licenses
The SCDMV issues several types of licenses for buying, selling, and trading motor vehicles. The type of business that you wish to operate will determine the type of license that is appropriate for you.
Each license is valid for 12 months and should be displayed prominently in your place of business. Each license applies to only one dealer at one business location and is not transferable to any other dealer or location. Each license costs $50.
If you operate as a dealer or wholesaler without the proper license, you may be convicted of a misdemeanor and fined up to $1,000 and/or imprisoned for up to two years.
Applying for a Dealer License
You must apply for a dealer license with the SCDMV before beginning business as a dealer or wholesaler. The licensing requirements may differ depending on the type of license you require and whether or not you have been licensed before.
To get any type of dealer or wholesaler license, you must complete all required applications and pass an inspection by the SCDMV.
Applying for the First Time
If you are applying for the first-time, you must submit the following forms depending on the type of license you are requesting. No fees are required to submit your application.
The Application for a Dealer or Wholesaler License (SCDMV Form DLA-1) is the basic application for your dealer or wholesaler license. You must indicate the type of business you intend to operate, the address of your dealership, and provide information regarding your employees on this application. You must include estimates on the number of vehicles you expect to sell during your first year in business.
Mail your completed application to the appropriate address below:
Standard Mail | Overnight Mail |
SCDMV Attn: Dealer Licensing and Audit Unit PO Box 1498 Blythewood, SC 29016-0023 |
SCDMV Attn: Dealer Licensing and Audit Unit 10311 Wilson Boulevard, Building C Blythewood, SC 29016-0023 |
The below steps (if applicable to your license type) must be completed before submitting your application:
An eight-hour pre-licensing course is not required for the following: franchise, salvage, and rental dealers, as well as wholesale, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, and wholesale auto auction.
Once completed the applicable, above steps, please submit all below documents per your license type.
Required documents for a Retail/Dealer License
Required documents for a Wholesale License
Please provide an operational business model.
Hand drawn or computer-generated diagram
(indicating the: 1) structure/layout of the building, 2) office space, and 3) location for storing your records)
Motor Vehicle Dealer and Wholesaler Surety Bond (SCDMV Form DLA-1B) with Power of Attorney (POA) for $30,000
(original bond and POA must be mailed; copies are not accepted)
Required documents for a Wholesale Auction License
Required documents for a Motorcycle Dealer License
Required documents for a Motorcycle Wholesale License
Required documents for a Recreational Vehicle Dealer License
On July 1, 2018, the Travel Trailer Dealer's license was replaced by the Recreational Vehicle (RV) Dealer's license. Dealers selling RVs will no longer have a Regular Retail or Travel Trailer Dealer's license. Dealers must apply and exhibit one RV license. This license does not allow dealers to sell other types of motor vehicles at their location(s). Each RV license expires on the last day of the month a year after the date it is issued. The license must be prominently displayed at the dealership. If a dealer decides to sell RVs and additional types of vehicles, the dealer must have a license to sells RVs and a license to sell the other type of vehicle.
If you are requesting a temporary recreational vehicle (RV) license permit to exhibit and sell travel trailers or motor homes at fairs, recreational or sport shows, vacation shows, or other similar events, you must complete the Application for a Temporary Recreational Vehicle Dealer's License (SCDMV Form 417-C) .
Dealers Requesting Additional Demonstration Plates
You will use this process when you have not met your sales volume.
Changes to Your Dealership
You must report any change in the information on your application to the SCDMV within 30 days.
You must complete a new application if you move your dealership to a new location, change the name of the business, change ownership, or change your license type or status from a wholesaler to a dealer.
You must notify the SCDMV within ten days in the event you close your business. You must return your dealer or wholesaler license and any plates issued to you.
SC Code of Laws 56-14-30 et seq.