How to Get a Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer License in Arizona
If you buy or sell vehicles at dealer auctions in Arizona, you need to be licensed with the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Dealer Licensing Unit. Keep reading for step-by-step application instructions and answers to common licensing questions.
Which License Do I Need?
Before applying, you’ll need to decide whether you’re operating as a wholesale dealer or a wholesale auction dealer.
| License Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer | Sells wholesale only to other licensed dealers. Cannot sell directly to the consumer |
| Wholesale Auction Dealer | Provides auction services only in wholesale transactions between licensed dealers. Cannot buy, sell or own the vehicles being auctioned |
Note: If you sell vehicles directly to consumers, you’ll need a separate motor vehicle dealer license.
How Do I Get a Wholesale Vehicle Dealer License in Arizona?
Follow these 5 steps to get your wholesale vehicle dealer license in Arizona.
Step 1: Register your business
First, select a structure and register your business with the state. You’ll also need a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License from the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Step 2: Establish your location
Wholesale dealers in Arizona must maintain an in-state business location and hold a valid state ID.
You can either purchase or lease a property for your business, as long as the building meets proper signage and zoning requirements. To verify this, the Dealer Licensing Unit requires you to submit pictures of your business. You may be able to operate out of your home if it complies with zoning regulations.
Step 3: Purchase a surety bond
All wholesalers need a $25,000 Arizona dealer bond as proof of financial security. Apply online for a free quote, with rates starting at just $188.
Step 4: Submit a background check
A criminal background screening, including fingerprint submission, is required for anyone with at least a 20% ownership interest in the business. In the licensing portal, submit the Person History/Authorization to Release Information form. The fee is $22.44 per person.
Start the fingerprinting process by making an account on the AZ Department of Public Safety website. Then, use the same login to schedule your appointment on Fieldprint. Service fees vary by location but are typically around $8.
Note: Fingerprint Clearance Cards are not accepted.
Step 5: Apply online
The wholesale dealer application can only be completed online through ADOT Force. Create an account and upload the following documents:
- Surety bond
- Photos of your business
- Business registration and TPT
After submission, you can request dealer plates through your account.
The Dealer Licensing Unit will review your application within three business days and contact you if they need more information. Once approved, you’ll get an email with an invoice for the licensing fee. You can pay all fees through AZ MVD Now using the same login.
How Do I Renew My Wholesaler License?
Your license will expire annually on the issue date. You’ll receive an email reminder 45 days before renewal.
Use your AZ MVD Now account to renew. Submit your current Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license and report the number of sales for the previous license period. If you haven’t sold at least 10 vehicles, the Dealer Licensing Unit will cancel your existing plates.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Wholesale Dealer License in Arizona?
You can expect to pay at least $333.44 to get your wholesale dealer license in Arizona. This includes the following costs:
- Application Fee: $15
- License Fee: $100
- Background Check Fee: $22.44
- Fingerprinting Fee: $8
- Surety Bond: $188+
- Dealer Plates: Varies
The cost of your dealer plates is based on the type of vehicles you sell.
| Type of Plate | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard | $30 |
| Trailer | $30 |
| Motorcycle | $10 |
Arizona Wholesale Vehicle Dealer FAQs
How Many Dealer Plates Can I Purchase?
You can purchase up to two plates plus one additional plate for every 50 vehicles sold. The maximum amount is 10 plates.
At renewal, you’ll need to provide proof that you sold at least 10 vehicles before you can purchase additional dealer plates.
How Can I Make Changes to My Wholesaler License?
You’ll use ADOT Force to request any changes to your license, such as:
- Dealer plate orders
- Business structure updates
- Adding or removing owners
- Name or address changes
You cannot keep the same license if you change your operations or business structure. In this case, submit a new application and purchase new dealer plates.
Do I Need a Lot to Get a Wholesale Dealer License in Arizona?
No, you only need a traditional lot if you’re selling directly to the public. Wholesale dealers can operate from either commercial or residential property, as long as there’s a designated office space.
You can have a shared entrance to your business as long as it’s clearly identifiable and meets all other sign and zoning requirements.
What Are the Signage Requirements for Wholesale Dealers?
Wholesale businesses must have an identifiable sign that is permanently affixed (no banners or temporary signage). No signs or advertisements can suggest that you sell retail. The location must be clearly designated as wholesale only.
What Photos Are Required for My Application?
When applying, you’ll need to provide photo proof of the following:
- Address (numbers) of your residence or office
- All four sides of the building (commercial only)
- Office area
- Secure file cabinet
- Proper business sign
- Days and hours of operation
Can I Sell to Dealers in Other Countries?
Yes, you can sell vehicles to dealers overseas, but you must verify that the buyer is properly licensed in their country and keep the required documentation.
If selling internationally, you’ll need to consider U.S. export rules, the destination country’s import laws, and any shipping and title requirements for the vehicle.
What If I Don’t Have Enough Dealer Plates for My Vehicles?
If you run out of dealer plates, you can purchase a Wholesale Motor Vehicle Restricted Use 3-Day Permit. This allows you to legally operate a vehicle, even when you don’t have the proper dealer plates. There’s no limit on how many permits you can purchase.
Note that this permit is not a substitute for dealer plates and is only meant for temporary use.
How Do I Transfer a Title?
Use the Dealer Reassignment Transfer (DRT) for all dealer-to-dealer title transfers. This records each ownership change until the vehicle reaches the final buyer.
What Are the Benefits of a Wholesale Auction License?
Wholesale auction dealers can only provide auction services between licensed dealers. They facilitate bidding and handle all paperwork. However, unlike a standard wholesale dealer, they cannot own the vehicles being sold or buy vehicles for resale.
A wholesale auction dealer license is ideal if you don’t want to take on the liability of owning vehicles. Benefits include:
- Earn fees without owning inventory: You make money through buyer/seller fees, auction service fees and transaction fees.
- Lower financial risk: You’re not exposed to losses from unsold, damaged or depreciating inventory.
- High-volume business model: Instead of selling one car at a time, you facilitate many transactions between other dealers.
- No title responsibility: You are not required to transfer titles or handle ownership-related requirements.
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Last Updated: June 10, 2026
