Dealer Surety Bond in Missouri: $10,000–$100,000 Requirement
Missouri requires all licensed dealers to maintain a $10,000–$100,000 surety bond. Here is exactly what you need, what it costs, and what happens when a claim is filed.
Bond Requirement at a Glance
Amount varies by state and dealer license category. Contact your state DMV for the exact requirement.
Who Needs a Surety Bond in Missouri
Most states require a surety bond as a condition of obtaining and maintaining a dealer license.
- New vehicle dealer
- Used vehicle dealer
- Wholesale dealer
- Motorcycle dealer
How to Get a Bond in Missouri
Where to get it: Any state-licensed surety company
Use the state DMV-approved bond form. File with your dealer license application.
Annual Premium Cost
0.5%–3% of bond face value per year
Premium is based on your personal credit score. Good credit = lower annual cost.
How Claims Work
Injured buyer files with state DMV or directly with the surety company.
Valid claims are paid up to the bond face value. Dealer must reimburse the surety for any paid claims.
Penalties for Operating Without a Bond
Missouri-Specific Note
Missouri-Specific Facts for Dealer Surety Bond
Missouri Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Missouri, the title transfer fee is $8.5 and registration costs $18.25 - $51.25 based on horsepower. Vehicle sales are subject to 4.225% state sales tax plus local taxes. Notarization is required for vehicle bill of sale documents in Missouri. Emission testing is required in Missouri — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- Notarized title required for transfer
- Safety inspection required within 60 days of registration
- Emissions testing required in St. Louis and Kansas City metro areas
- Personal property tax receipt required for registration
Missouri sales tax on vehicle purchases
Missouri has a 4.225% state sales tax rate. 4.225% state plus local taxes (total 5–10%). Private-party vehicle sales in Missouri are subject to sales tax. Sales tax applies to private party vehicle purchases. The title transfer fee is $9.
Missouri bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 1,492 bill of sale documents for Missouri transactions, with 40 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Missouri Vehicle Guides
- Junk Title Conversion in Missouri
- Kelley Blue Book Value in Missouri
- Leasing vs Buying in Missouri
- Mechanic's Lien on Vehicle in Missouri
- New Resident Vehicle Registration in Missouri
- Out-of-State Buyer Vehicle in Missouri
Each guide is written specifically for Missouri laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a dealer surety bond in Missouri?
Missouri requires a $10,000–$100,000 surety bond for licensed dealers. Amount varies by state and dealer license category. Contact your state DMV for the exact requirement.
Who requires a dealer surety bond in Missouri?
State DMV or Motor Vehicle Division requires the bond. Most states require a surety bond as a condition of obtaining and maintaining a dealer license.
How much does a dealer surety bond cost annually in Missouri?
Expect to pay 0.5%–3% of bond face value per year. Premium is based on your personal credit score. Good credit = lower annual cost.
What happens if a Missouri dealer doesn't have a surety bond?
Dealer license denial, suspension, or revocation. Possible criminal charges for operating without a bond.
How does a surety bond claim work in Missouri?
Injured buyer files with state DMV or directly with the surety company. Valid claims are paid up to the bond face value. Dealer must reimburse the surety for any paid claims.
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Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV Dealer Licensing Division. Verify current bond amounts with your state DMV before purchasing.