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License Bond

District of Columbia Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond

This bond is required for anyone who wants to sell motor vehicles in Washington, DC. It protects consumers who buy cars from licensed dealers. If a dealer breaks the law, engages in fraud, or fails to follow DC vehicle sales regulations, customers can file a claim against this $25,000 bond to recover their financial l…

Overview

What it is.

This bond is required for anyone who wants to sell motor vehicles in Washington, DC. It protects consumers who buy cars from licensed dealers. If a dealer breaks the law, engages in fraud, or fails to follow DC vehicle sales regulations, customers can file a claim against this $25,000 bond to recover their financial l…

Who usually needs it

Individuals and businesses licensed to buy or sell motor vehicles in the District of Columbia, as well as those licensed to purchase contracts for retail installment sales of automobiles, must obtain this $25,000 bond as a prerequisite for licensure with the DC DMV.

Pricing & timing

What to expect.

Generic pricing

License bonds are required by state and local governments to ensure compliance with industry regulations. Typical Pricing:. • Small bonds (under $25,000): Typically $100–$250 per year (flat fee). • Larger license bonds: Commonly around 1–5% of the bond amount annually. • Credit impact: Good credit: starting around 1–2% · Average credit: typically 2–4% · Credit challenges: often 4–5% or higher. Same-day approval is typical for many common license bonds. Some license bonds may price higher de…

Typical timeframe

Issuance timeframe varies by bond type and underwriting

Application

What to do next.

  1. Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
  2. Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
  3. Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
  4. Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.

You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.

Details

Bond details.

StateDC
Bond amount$25,000
ObligeeDistrict of Columbia
Bond classLicense Bond
CategoryMotor Vehicle
BondDistrict of Columbia Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond
JurisdictionState
Plain descriptionThis bond is required for anyone who wants to sell motor vehicles in Washington, DC. It protects consumers who buy cars from licensed dealers. If a dealer breaks the law, engages in fraud, or fails to follow DC vehicle …
Who needs this bondIndividuals and businesses licensed to buy or sell motor vehicles in the District of Columbia, as well as those licensed to purchase contracts for retail installment sales of automobiles, must obtain this $25,000 bond a…
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Next step

Ready to move forward?

Pin down whether this is your bond, then start the application. Ava can confirm the right state and license type if you are not sure.