Arkansas Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond

To open a dealership in Arkansas, you need a motor vehicle dealer bond. The amount depends on your sales volume. You file it with the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission. You can get it fast.

Bond Amount
$25,000–$50,000 (by dealer type)
Typical Premium
$200–$2,500/yr
Term
1 Year
Required By
AR Motor Vehicle Commission / Arkansas State Police
All 50 States
Bonds in every state
Fast Quotes
Most returned within 24 hours
A-Rated Sureties
Backed by strong carriers
Same-Day Filing
Often issued the same day

What Is the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?

Think of the Arkansas motor vehicle dealer bond as a promise to your buyers and the state. Break a dealer rule, and they can claim against the bond. You then repay the surety.

Here is what Arkansas requires:

New-car dealers register with the Motor Vehicle Commission; used-car dealers register with the Arkansas State Police.

Who Needs This Bond in Arkansas?

How to Get Bonded — Step by Step

  1. Apply for the bond on this page. We match you with a strong surety.
  2. Complete your dealer application.
  3. Turn in the bond with the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission.
  4. Receive your license and open for business.

Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage

Plan to renew your Arkansas dealer bond every year. Line it up before the deadline so your license never drops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arkansas split new and used dealers?

Yes. New-car dealers register with the Motor Vehicle Commission ($50,000). Used-car dealers register with the Arkansas State Police ($25,000).

Does the Arkansas bond protect me?

No. The bond protects your customers and the state, not you. If a claim is paid, you pay the surety back. The bond is not your own insurance.

How fast can I get bonded in Arkansas?

We shop several sureties for you, often within a day. Many bonds are issued the same day for good credit.

How much does the bond cost?

You pay a yearly premium — a small percent of the bond amount. Your rate depends mostly on your credit.

How a Surety Bond Works

A dealer bond is a type of surety bond. The picture below shows the three parties and what happens if someone files a claim.

Diagram of how a surety bond works: the obligee requires the bond, the principal applies and signs an indemnity agreement, and the surety issues the bond; if the principal fails, the obligee files a claim, the surety investigates and may pay, and the principal reimburses the surety.

Ready to get your Arkansas Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?

Apply in 2 minutes. Most bonds issued same day.

Related: All Arkansas surety bonds · What is a surety bond? · How surety bond costs are calculated

Underwriting Disclosure. All surety bond applications are subject to underwriting review and approval by the issuing surety company. Quoted premiums are estimates only; final pricing is determined by individual underwriting factors, which may include personal and business credit history, financial statements, industry experience, and claims history. Many bonds qualify for instant online approval, while others may require additional documentation, financial review, or indemnitor signatures prior to issuance. SuretyBondly makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee of approval, eligibility, premium amount, bond form, or issuance timing. Bond amounts, forms, and requirements are governed by the applicable obligee and statutory authority and may change without notice. Information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.