North Dakota Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect dealership consumers from financial harm
- Who Needs It: All motor vehicle, mobile/manufactured home, trailer, and RV dealers in North Dakota
- Regulating Body: The North Dakota Department of Transportation
- Bond Amount: $10,000 for MPR and trailer dealers, $25,000 for standard vehicle dealers, $50,000 for mobile home dealers
- Minimum Price: 1% of the bond amount; credit-based
What Is a North Dakota Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?
A North Dakota motor vehicle dealer bond is a financial guarantee that dealers will follow license laws, rules and regulations. Each license type has its own bond form, but they all require dealers to comply with North Dakota statutes when operating their dealership.
Who Needs a Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?
The North Dakota Department of Transportation enforces dealer license regulations in the state, including the surety bond requirements. Bond coverage varies based on the specific license type.
| License Type | Description | Bond Amount and Form |
|---|---|---|
New Motor Vehicle Dealer | Buys, sells, and exchanges new and used motor vehicles | $25,000 bond, form SFN 2933 |
Used Motor Vehicle Dealer | Buys, sells, and exchanges used motor vehicles | $25,000 bond, form SFN 2933 |
Motor-Powered Recreational (MPR) Vehicle Dealer | Buys, sells, and exchanges motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, or unconventional vehicles | $10,000 bond, form SFN 3003 |
Trailer Dealer | Buys, sells, and exchanges trailers | $10,000 bond, form SFN 2898 |
Mobile and Manufactured Home Dealer | Buys, sells, and exchanges mobile homes, manufactured homes, motor homes, or travel trailers | $50,000 bond, form SFN 2935 |
Low speed vehicle dealers do not need a license or surety bond. | ||
How Much Do Vehicle Dealer Bonds Cost?
North Dakota motor vehicle dealer bond costs start at 1% of the total bond amount. Underwriters will provide your exact rates after reviewing your credit history. For example, the $25,000 new and used dealer bond starts at $250 for applicants with excellent credit. Get your free quote now.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a North Dakota Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Work?
A motor vehicle dealer bond creates a financial contract between three parties: the principal (you), the surety (us), and the North Dakota DOT.
By filing this bond you agree to comply with North Dakota statutes when operating your dealership. If you fail to do so, your surety company will pay valid claims to harmed parties up to the full bond amount. You’re ultimately responsible for repaying the surety.

How Do I Get an Auto Dealer Bond in North Dakota?
You can apply for your North Dakota auto dealer bond online 24/7. Simply choose the bond amount required for your license type and complete the quick application form:
- Dealer/dealership name
- Dealership mailing address
- Dealer license type
- Dealer license number, if available
We’ll email a quote, which you can pay for at any time. Then, we'll mail your official bond form. We offer one to three business day delivery options via FedEx.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
We typically provide quotes the same day if you apply before 2 PM CST Mon–Fri. Otherwise, you can expect to hear back within one business day or less. Once you have your invoice, you can complete the purchase 24/7 and select overnight shipping if you’re in a rush.
How Do I File My Bond?
You’ll include your bond form in your dealer license application packet. See the licensing section below for the mailing address.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
You may still be able to get bonded with bad credit, but you’ll likely pay a higher premium. Quotes are free and have no impact on your credit score — apply now!
How Do I Renew My Bond?
You’ll need to renew your dealer license bond each year. We’ll provide helpful reminders before your bond expires. All you need to do is pay the renewal invoices and your bond will stay active for another year.
How Do I Update My Bond Form Information?
You can email any updates to [email protected]. If possible, we’ll issue a bond rider, which you’ll need to file with the DoT.
How to Get a Car Dealer License in North Dakota
Complete the following steps to apply for your motor vehicle dealer license in North Dakota:
- Submit a completed dealer license application.
- Get a surety bond in the required amount.
- Purchase liability insurance.
- Meet all business location requirements specific to your dealership type.
- Meet all vehicle sales and display requirements specific to your dealership type.
- Pay all required fees.
Mail all required documents to the MVD:
Motor Vehicle Division
ND Dept. of Transportation
608 E Boulevard Ave.
Bismarck, ND 58505-0780
