A Nevada auto dealer bond, officially the Vehicle Industry Business License Bond, is required by the Nevada DMV to get and keep an auto dealer license. The amount ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 based on the vehicles you sell. It protects consumers against fraud and misrepresentation. You pay an annual premium, typically 1% to 10% of the bond amount, and renew it every year.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official name | Vehicle Industry Business License Bond |
| Who requires it | Nevada DMV |
| Bond amount | $10,000 to $100,000, by vehicle type |
| Premium | 1% to 2% of the bond amount per year Good 1.5% – 3% Average 2%-3% |
| Good credit rate | As low as 3% to 5% |
| Poor credit rate | Often 5% to 10% |
| Key form | OBL210 |
Bond amount by vehicle type
The required bond amount depends on what you sell:
- $100,000 bond: new, used, wholesale, and franchise auto dealers (cars and trucks), and vehicle brokers
- $50,000 bond: motorcycle dealers, horse trailers without living quarters, and utility trailers over 3,500 lbs
- $10,000 bond: utility or boat trailers weighing 3,500 lbs or less
How much does it cost?
You do not pay the full bond amount. You pay an annual premium, typically 1% to 10% of the total. For a $100,000 bond, that is roughly $1,000 to $10,000 per year.
- Strong credit (typically above 700): usually the lowest premiums, around 0.5% to 2%.
- Poor credit: still bondable, but rates often run 5% to 10%.
- Underwriters may also weigh your industry experience and time licensed.
How to apply and file
- Apply online and receive quotes from licensed surety companies.
- Sign the indemnity agreement and pay the premium.
- The surety provides the official Vehicle Industry Business License Bond form (OBL210), which you sign and file with your Nevada DMV Occupational and Business Licensing packet.
- Call us we can complete the bond while we are on the phone
You must keep the bond active and renew it annually as long as you hold your Nevada dealer license.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Nevada auto dealer bond?
The bond is $10,000 to $100,000 depending on vehicle type. The premium is typically 1% to 10% of that amount, so a $100,000 bond runs about $1,000 to $10,000 per year.
Why is my bond $100,000 when someone else’s is $10,000?
The amount is set by what you sell. Car and truck dealers need $100,000, while small trailer dealers may need only $10,000.
What drives my premium?
Mainly your personal credit, plus your finances, industry experience, and time licensed.
What form do I file with the DMV?
The OBL210 Vehicle Industry Business License Bond form, submitted with your Occupational and Business Licensing packet.
Do I have to renew it?
Yes. The bond must stay active and is renewed annually while you hold your dealer license.
