Georgia used motor vehicle dealers must obtain a surety bond as part of the state licensing process. Under Official Code of Georgia Section 43-47-8(g), the required bond amount increased to $50,000 on July 1, 2026.

The bond expires on September 30 of every even-numbered year.

Bonds Express approves 99% of applications and offers the following two-year rates to qualifying applicants with clean credit:

Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Pricing

For dealers with three or more years in business, the car dealer surety bond rate is lower. Newer dealerships and those with credit challenges may receive a higher dealer surety bond cost, and a collateral deposit or Irrevocable Letter of Credit (ILOC) may be required.

Dealers With Three or More Years in Business

Credit Score Two-Year Premium
750 or higher $263
700 or higher $322
675 or higher $438
640 or higher $525

Dealers With Less Than Three Years in Business

Credit Score Two-Year Premium
750 or higher $438
700 or higher $525
650 or higher $613

Please note: These prices are for applicants with clean credit. An applicant may have a qualifying credit score but still require individual review because of collections, bankruptcies, liens, judgments, or other credit issues. Final rates are based on the completed application and underwriting review.

New $50,000 Requirement – What Changed in 2026?

Georgia Senate Bill 293 raised the required used motor vehicle dealer bond amount from $35,000 to $50,000, effective July 1, 2026. Previously, dealers operated under a $35,000 surety bond requirement. The updated law applies to all new applicants and dealers renewing their existing bonds.

The higher bond amount strengthens consumer protections for used vehicle buyers across Georgia. Whether you refer to it as a Georgia dealer bond, a used auto dealer bond, or a used car dealer bond, the requirement is the same: every licensed used motor vehicle dealer must carry $50,000 in coverage before operating.

When Does a Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Expire?

Georgia used motor vehicle dealer bonds expire on September 30 of even-numbered years. The next renewal deadline is September 30, 2026. Dealers must have their renewed bond in place before this date to keep their license in good standing.

Both new applicants and established dealers renewing their Georgia auto dealer bond must meet the $50,000 requirement effective July 1, 2026. If your bond lapses before renewal, you risk a gap in your dealer license coverage.

Conclusion

If you hold or are applying for multiple dealer license types, you may also need a Georgia Dealers Bond. For a complete list of motor vehicle and Georgia auto dealer bonds available through Bonds Express, visit the Georgia bonds page. See our dedicated bond amount guide for pricing factors of $50,000 surety bond.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?
The required bond amount is $50,000. Premiums start at $263 for a two-year term for qualifying dealerships. Your rate is determined based on a review of the business owner’s credit profile.
Why did the Georgia dealer bond increase to $50,000?
Georgia Senate Bill 293 raised the required used motor vehicle dealer bond amount from $35,000 to $50,000, effective July 1, 2026. The increase strengthens consumer protections for used vehicle buyers and ensures greater financial recourse is available when a dealer fails to meet licensing obligations or engages in non-compliant practices.
Do existing Georgia dealers need a $50,000 bond for renewal?
Yes. All dealers, including those renewing their licenses, must carry a $50,000 bond. The next renewal deadline is September 30, 2026. Dealers should secure their renewed bond before this date to maintain their license without interruption.
Can I get a Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond with bad credit?
Yes. Most applications are approved. Applicants with lower credit scores may receive a higher premium rate or be required to provide a collateral deposit or Irrevocable Letter of Credit (ILOC). The premium approval is based on a review of the business owner’s credit profile, which has no impact on your credit score.
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A $50,000 Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond is required to obtain and maintain a used motor vehicle dealer license in Georgia.

The bond provides financial protection to customers and the State of Georgia if a dealer commits fraud, misrepresents a transaction, violates state law, or fails to meet certain licensing obligations.

This is not an insurance policy for the dealership. If the surety company pays a valid claim, the dealer is responsible for repaying the surety.