Used Car Dealership Startup Cost Calculator

Estimate the money needed to open a used-car dealership: inventory, license and bond, lot, insurance, software and reserve.

Last checked November 14, 2026

Cars you want on the lot at the start

Average cost per car

Dealer license, bond and registrations (look up your state)

Lot or office: deposit and first months

Insurance (first year)

Software and equipment

Signs and marketing

Cash reserve for repairs and slow months

How it works

Enter your own numbers for each item. License and bond costs vary by state, so look up your state's requirements first.

This is a planning tool. Your costs will differ.

How much does it cost to start a used car lot?

It depends on your state, your lot and how many cars you stock. Use this calculator with your own numbers.

DMS Apex is $28 a month with a 15-day free trial. It prints your state's forms and works out your state's tax.