Business Licenses for Motorcycle Dealers

Who needs a motorcycle dealer license

You must have a motorcycle dealer license if you:

• Buy, sell, or exchange motorcycles
• Offer motorcycles for sale to the public
• Display motorcycles for sale as a business

You may not operate as a motorcycle dealer in Maryland without a valid license issued by the MVA.

Requirements & responsibilities

Surety bond requirement

Before your motorcycle dealer license can be issued, you must file a surety bond as required under the Maryland Transportation Article. The bond must:

• Be in the amount required by the Maryland Transportation Article
• Be issued by a surety company authorized to do business in Maryland
• Be payable to the State of Maryland

You must maintain continuous bond coverage at all times. If your bond is canceled, expires, or becomes invalid, your license may be suspended or revoked and you may not legally operate.

The surety bond protects consumers and the state if a dealer violates Maryland law.

Motorcycle dealer responsibilities

As a licensed motorcycle dealer, you must:

• Comply with the Maryland Transportation Article
• Maintain accurate sales and inventory records
• Maintain your required surety bond
• Follow all titling and registration procedures
• Allow inspections or audits by the MVA, if required

Violations may result in civil penalties, suspension, or revocation of your license.

How to apply for a motorcycle dealer license

Step 1: Complete the application

Fill out the official motorcycle dealer license application. Make sure all information is complete and accurate — incomplete applications may delay processing.

Step 2: Obtain a surety bond

Secure a surety bond from an authorized surety company. You'll need to include the original bond with your application.

Step 3: Gather required documents

You may need to submit:

• Business formation documents (articles of incorporation or organization)
• Trade name registration, if applicable
• Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), if applicable
• Zoning approval for your business location
• Proof of a permanent business location that meets Maryland requirements
• Original surety bond
• Any additional documents required by the Business Licensing and Compliance Division

Step 4: Submit the application & fees

Mail or deliver your completed application, bond, supporting documents, and fees to:

Business Licensing and Compliance Division
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Fees are nonrefundable. 

Do not begin operating until your license has been approved.

How to renew your license

Motorcycle dealer licenses must be renewed as required by the MVA.

To renew, you must submit renewal paperwork, pay renewal fees, and maintain your required surety bond

If your license expires, you may not operate.

Need help?

Contact the Business Licensing and Compliance Division at 410-768-7000.

We are here to help you understand the licensing process.