Hawaii Auto Dealer Bonds, and More

How much does an auto dealer bond cost in Hawaii?

Auto dealer surety bonds (also called motor vehicle dealer bonds) are mandated by the Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board of Hawaii as part of the licensing requirements for dealerships to conduct business in the state. The Licensing Board sets the total bond amount based on the dealer's annual number of vehicle sales:

• $50,000 bonds for new motor vehicle dealers that sell less than 10 vehicles per month
• $200,000 bonds for new motor vehicle dealers that sell more than 10 vehicles per month
• $25,000 bonds for used motor vehicle dealers that sell less than 60 vehicles per month
• $100,000 bonds for used motor vehicle dealers that sell more than 60 vehicles per month
• $10,000 bonds for motorcycle and scooter dealers

The surety company determines your premium rate, which is the percentage of the total bond amount you pay as the premium. Premium rates for Hawaii auto dealer bonds typically cost between 1% and 3% of the total bond amount.

During the application process, the surety company evaluates your personal credit, financial statements, industry experience, and licensing history. Applicants with good credit generally receive the lowest rates, however, bad credit will not prevent you from securing a Hawaii auto dealer bond. EZSurety still offers competitive rates to individuals with low credit scores or other financial issues.

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Why are auto dealer bonds important in Hawaii?

Hawaii auto dealer bonds provide protection for customers, creditors, and the state government. When a Hawaii motor vehicle dealer posts a surety bond, they provide a guarantee to the Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board of Hawaii (the bond’s Obligee) that they will conduct business in compliance with the conditions listed in Chapter 437 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.

If the auto dealer fails to comply with the statutes, the surety company will pay out financial losses to damaged parties up to the full bond amount. The auto dealer is liable to reimburse the surety for any damages paid under the bond.

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How to get your auto dealer license in Hawaii

To obtain your auto dealer license in Hawaii, you must meet the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs licensing requirements by completing the following steps:

• Complete the application for dealer licensing
• Post the appropriate surety bond
• Provide photographs of the business location including the display area
• Pay all application and licensing fees

Additional Resources

• Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board