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If you’re applying to sell used cars: Proof you completed a dealer education course. You must submit the Original Certificate with the application.

You must complete the course at some point during the 12 months leading up to your application.Courses for new applicants last 12 hours; when you renew your dealer license, you’ll need to complete a renewal course that lasts 6 hours.

2. OBTAIN A PERMANENT BUSINESS LOCATION

(NO Display Lot is Required in NC-But must have Proper Zoning Approval to sell Cars from that Location )

• Have an “established salesroom” (Retail) containing at least 96 square feet of floor space in a permanent, enclosed building, or separate and apart from any living quarters, residence, or other business and having a separate entrance.*
• Displays, or is located immediately adjacent to, a sign having block letters not less than three inches in height on contrasting background, clearly and distinctly designating the trade name of the business.
• Is a place at which a permanent business of bartering, trading, and selling motor vehicles will be carried on in good faith on an ongoing basis whereby the dealer can be contacted by the public at reasonable times.
• Is a place where the books, records, and files required by the Division under this Article are kept.

The term includes the area contiguous to or located within 500 feet of the premises on which the salesroom is located. The term does not include a tent, a temporary stand, or other temporary quarters. The minimum area requirement does not apply to any place of business lawfully in existence and duly licensed on or before January 1, 1978.

SPECIAL NOTE FOR WHOLESALER: *Have an “established office” (Wholesaler) containing at least 96 square feet of floor space in a permanent, enclosed building or structure which is accessible to Division personnel and is a place where books, records and files are required to be kept.

Once you have your salesroom squared away, call the License and Theft Bureau office that’s local to your dealership to schedule an inspection. Reference the North Carolina Motor Vehicle Minimum Dealer License Requirements (Form LT-415) for a list of local inspectors and phone numbers.