Mississippi Designated Agent Bond Overview
- Purpose: To guarantee title agents and dealers uphold state law
- Who Needs It: Independent dealers and title agents in Mississippi
- Regulating Body: The Mississippi Department of Revenue
- Bond Amount: $5,000 for non-dealers, $15,000 for dealers
- Premium Price: $100 for non-dealers, $150 for dealers
What Is a Mississippi Designated Agent Bond?
A Mississippi designated agent bond ensures that agents follow state regulations and operate honestly.
If you want to issue and transfer titles for motor vehicles and manufactured homes, you’ll need to apply for designated agent status from the MS Department of Revenue (DOR).
Note: If you sell new vehicles on behalf of a franchise, you instead need a Mississippi dealer bond.
How Much Do Designated Agent Bonds Cost in Mississippi?
Your cost will depend on your bond amount:
- $15,000 designated agent bond for dealers: $150
- $5,000 designated agent bond for non-dealers: $100
Buy your bond instantly today — no credit check required!
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Designated Agent Bond Work?
A Mississippi designated agent bond forms a legal contract between you, the state and the surety company.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | The designated agent purchasing the bond |
| Obligee | The Mississippi Department of Revenue requiring the bond |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
By filing this bond, you promise to uphold the Mississippi Motor Vehicle and Manufactured Housing Title Law. This includes:
- Properly handling ownership paperwork
- Maintaining complete records of all vehicle transactions
- Submitting all title applications and fees on time
If you fail to comply with this law, those affected can file claims to recover losses. The surety will pay valid claims up to the full bond amount. However, you’re responsible for reimbursement.
How Do I Get a Designated Agent Bond in Mississippi?
It takes just five minutes to get a Mississippi designated agent bond! All you need to do is enter your information and a payment method.
Once you file the bond form with the DOR, you’ll be officially “bonded” and can apply for your designated agent status.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
In a rush? Dealer agent bonds are delivered instantly via email. For non-dealers, we offer overnight, two-day and three-day FedEx shipping. Rates are $20–$40.
How Do I File My Bond?
You must mail the original bond form directly to the Department of Revenue.
Regular Mail:
MS Department of Revenue
Motor Vehicle Services
PO Box 1383
Jackson, MS 39215
Overnight Mail:
MS Department of Revenue
Motor Vehicle Services
500 Clinton Center Drive
Clinton, MS 39056
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, this bond doesn’t require a credit check! Anyone can purchase this bond at the same flat rate.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
Mississippi designated agent bonds expire annually. When you work with SuretyBonds.com, you’ll receive periodic reminders starting 90 days before renewal. Just pay the attached premium to extend your bond for another year.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
Yes, you can typically make minor changes to your bond form by contacting your surety company. Current customers can email [email protected] with the new information.
How to Become a Designated Agent in Mississippi
If you process vehicle titles and registrations, you need a designated agent certificate from the Mississippi DOR. You can either apply as a dealer or just a title agent, depending on if you want to sell vehicles.
How to Apply for a Non-Dealer Designated Agent Certificate
Non-dealer agents can handle titles but cannot sell vehicles. To apply, follow these steps:
- Purchase and mail a $5,000 surety bond to the DOR
- Once the DOR receives your bond form, complete the online application for each location.
- Register for DOR’s Motor Vehicle e-Services to manage titles and registrations
Once approved, you’ll receive a printable Certificate of Designated Agent.
How to Apply for a Motor Vehicle Dealer Permit
If you plan to open a dealership, you’ll need a motor vehicle dealer permit. Follow these steps to apply:
- Purchase a $15,000 surety bond
- Complete the dealer tag permit application either on paper or online
- Attend an 8 hour educational seminar administered by the Mississippi Independent Auto Dealers Association (MIADA)
- Get dealer liability insurance that covers all of your dealership's vehicles
- Apply for a Mississippi sales tax number for each dealership location
- Pass a site inspection (retail only)
Permits and tags expire on October 31 annually. Be sure to keep your surety bond and insurance policy active.
Note: This permit doesn’t apply to franchise dealers selling new vehicles from a manufacturer. Instead, you need a franchise dealer license from the Mississippi Motor Vehicle Commission.
Can I Sell New Vehicles With a Motor Vehicle Dealer Permit?
No, you can’t sell new vehicles without a manufacturer franchise agreement. You need a separate franchise dealer license to represent yourself as an authorized dealer for a brand. Mississippi independent dealers can only operate as used car dealers.
