How to become a dealer in Utah.

Start with the name. Two free searches settle it in about a minute: the Division of Corporations’ Name Availability check, and the state’s public list of licensed dealers. MVED won’t license a name confusingly similar to another dealer’s, so clear both before the name goes on your LLC, bond, and sign. If something comes back close, that’s when a call to MVED (801-297-2600) earns its keep. Similarity is their judgment call, not a search result. Then form your LLC and register the name with the Utah Division of Corporations, and file a DBA if you’ll operate under a different name. Get a free EIN from the IRS, then open a Utah sales-tax account at tax.utah.gov. MVED requires the sales-tax license in your application.

Take this one from me: they read every line. Two details that slow people down: different forms want different addresses, so know where your home address goes and where the lot’s goes. And how your DBA is owned matters, whether it’s under the LLC or under you personally. Get both consistent across the packet before you file.

Call the city planning office before you sign anything. Vehicle sales are only allowed in certain zones, and I don’t want you signing a lease on a lot you can’t use. Many cities also require a Conditional Use Permit, sometimes with a hearing — and often a permit for your sign. Which permits apply is your city’s call, and some cities are stricter than others — ask exactly which ones your lot needs on that first call. On top of that, the state has its own physical standards:

Once your city’s conditions are met and approved — CUP inspection included, where one applies — get the business-license application in. Most cities will hold it and issue the business license itself once MVED issues your dealer license. You can’t sell from home or any unlicensed location. Here’s exactly when Utah says you need a license.

You’ll keep a $75,000 surety bond on file the whole time you operate. Don’t panic at the number. You pay a yearly premium to a bond agent, not the full amount. While you’re at it, get a garage liability quote; you’ll need it for your dealer plates.

Heads up: everyone who signs on the bond also has to take the 8-hour course. There’s no state exam — here’s what the course actually is. And make sure your bonding company uses the current state form. MVED requires the Rev. 10/13 version, and old stock bounces the whole packet.

This is where I come in. The state requires an MVED-approved 8-hour orientation before you apply — licensing law, forms and records, advertising rules, and the federal side (IRS 8300, Buyers Guide, OFAC). My course walks you through all of it, and your certificate is issued the moment you finish.

Now you put it all together. The Bonded Motor Vehicle Business Application (Form TC-301) goes to MVED with the complete packet:

Before it goes in the envelope, run every line through the free packet pre-check. An MVED officer then inspects your lot within 5–10 working days. There’s no license until it passes, so have the sign up and hours posted before they arrive. A quick fix now beats a second visit later.

Pull your dealer plates. They’re how you legally drive your inventory, and new dealers start with a limited number. If you plan to buy salvage at Copart or IAA like I do, add the Salvage Buyer license (TC-305, $203/yr); it can only be issued after your dealer license exists. Then open your auction accounts and go buy your first car. Bidding at Copart or IAA? The max-bid calculator at dealerpronto.com is free.

This is the rhythm I live by every month — I cover all of it in the course:

This rhythm is exactly what dealerpronto.com is built for — it keeps the disclosures, deadlines, and monthly reports on track for you. Your course certificate includes 30 days of Pro.