Washington Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond

Washington requires a $30,000 motor vehicle dealer bond before you can get a dealer license. You file it with the Washington Department of Licensing. Most dealers set it up online.

Bond Amount
$30,000
Typical Premium
$300–$1,500/yr
Term
1 Year
Required By
Washington Dept. of Licensing (DOL)
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What Is the Washington Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?

A Washington motor vehicle dealer bond is a money guarantee. It protects the public, not you. If a customer is wronged, they can claim against it. The surety pays them, then you pay the surety back.

How much bond you need in Washington:

Who Needs This Bond in Washington?

How to Get Bonded — Step by Step

  1. Start your application.
  2. Get your bond here — same-day issuance for many.
  3. Send it to the Washington Department of Licensing.
  4. Once cleared, get your license and sell cars.

Renewal & Continuous Bond Coverage

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Washington bond protect me?

No. The bond protects your customers and the state, not you. If a claim is paid, you repay the surety. It is not insurance for you.

How fast can I get bonded in Washington?

Most quotes come back fast, 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 Washington Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond?

Apply in 2 minutes. Most quotes returned same day.

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Related: All Washington 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.