VF
Franchised motor vehicle dealer
For dealers selling new motor vehicles under a franchise agreement with a manufacturer or distributor. A franchised dealer may also sell used vehicles.
Learn which dealer license fits your business before you apply, renew, or expand into new vehicle types.
The key differences are the vehicle type, whether inventory is new or used, and whether you sell to the public or only to other dealers.
For dealers selling new motor vehicles under a franchise agreement with a manufacturer or distributor. A franchised dealer may also sell used vehicles.
For businesses that sell used motor vehicles at retail or wholesale. This is the license most independent used-car lots start with.
For dealers buying, selling, or dealing only at wholesale with other licensed dealers or through licensed auctions—not retail customers.
For businesses that auction motor vehicles to licensed motor vehicle dealers. This classification does not authorize ordinary retail sales.
For businesses dealing in salvage or wrecked vehicles and major component parts. Rebuilding vehicles can involve separate inspection and title requirements.
DH covers businesses that buy, sell, or deal in mobile homes. BH is for used mobile home brokers who arrange transactions without taking ownership.
RV is the franchised classification for new recreational vehicles; RU is the non-franchised classification for used recreational vehicles.
Important: Requirements vary by classification and circumstance. Confirm your application with the FLHSMV regional office that serves your dealership.
No. A VW license is limited to wholesale transactions with licensed dealers and licensed auctions. Retail sales generally require the appropriate retail dealer license.
A VI dealer sells used motor vehicles. Selling new vehicles under a manufacturer franchise requires the appropriate VF license and franchise agreement.
FLHSMV recommends that applicants do not sign a lease until the proposed dealership site has been approved by the department.
Dealer licensing is location-specific. Additional or supplemental locations have their own approval and filing requirements, so confirm the structure with your regional office before opening.
Always verify current requirements directly with FLHSMV before applying or committing to a location.
Form HSMV 86056 and application instructions · FLHSMV offices and locations
Use 17digit to prepare a title and registration packet from a single VIN and a single deal entry.
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