Step 1: Complete the Nebraska Dealer Education Course
Nebraska law requires every new dealer applicant to complete an approved 8-hour dealer pre-licensing course before submitting a dealer license application. The Nebraska Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board requires that 4 hours of this training be completed in person.
Our Board-approved course offers the required in-person training in:
- Omaha
- Lincoln
- North Platte
- South Sioux City
- Nebraska City
- Additional locations when available
The classroom portion goes far beyond simply satisfying the state requirement. You'll receive practical instruction designed to help you successfully launch and operate a profitable dealership.
During the in-person training you will learn:
- How to complete your Nebraska dealer license application correctly
- How to avoid common application mistakes that delay approval
- Where to find the lowest-cost dealer surety bonds
- How to compare garage insurance options
- How to properly complete dealer transaction paperwork
- Recordkeeping requirements for Nebraska dealers
- How to obtain dealer auction access
- How dealer management software simplifies your business
- How to obtain financing for customers
- How Buy Here Pay Here dealerships operate profitably
- How to increase profits with finance office products
After completing the required course, you'll receive access to several additional training modules that are available only to our students.
We also believe in complete pricing transparency. Visit our Pricing page to see exactly what is included with your one-time tuition.
Step 2: Register Your Business
Before receiving a Nebraska dealer license, you'll need to establish your dealership business. During class you'll learn exactly how to:
- Form an LLC or Corporation
- Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Obtain a Nebraska Sales Tax Permit
- Apply for any required local business licenses
If you prefer professional assistance, we'll also provide trusted resources that can complete these filings for you at an affordable cost.
Step 3: Obtain Your Nebraska Dealer Bond and Garage Insurance
Nebraska requires dealers to maintain a $50,000 Dealer Surety Bond. Fortunately, this does not mean paying $50,000.
Your bond premium is based largely on your credit score. Using the bond broker resources covered during class helps you compare multiple bond companies to obtain the lowest available pricing.
Typical Bond Pricing
- 690+ Credit Score: Approximately $500 annually
- 660-689 Credit Score: Approximately $750 annually
- Lower Credit Scores: Specialized bond companies are available
You'll also need garage liability insurance for your dealership. Insurance pricing depends on several factors, and the course explains how to compare providers and potentially reduce your insurance costs.
Step 4: Secure a Qualified Dealership Location
Your dealership location must meet Nebraska licensing requirements. Generally, your location must:
- Be located within Nebraska
- Be owned or leased by the dealership
- Be properly zoned for dealer operations
- Be accessible to the public
- Display an approved dealership sign
- Provide one contiguous display area for at least 10 vehicles, motorcycles, or trailers
Our course explains each location requirement in detail and provides practical guidance for selecting a compliant dealership property before you submit your application.
Additional Dealer Training Included
Your education doesn't end when the required class is finished. Students receive access to additional business-building training including:
- How to Maximize Dealership Profits
- Vehicle Pricing Strategies
- Negotiation Techniques
- Guaranteed SBA Loan Programs
- Dealer Floor Plans
- Vehicle History Reports
- Getting Loans for Every Customer
- Buy Here Pay Here Strategies
- Hiring Employees
- Protecting Against Odometer Fraud
- Online Vehicle Exchanges
- Vehicle Export Opportunities
- Tax Benefits of Vehicle Donations
Why Take Our Nebraska Dealer Pre-Licensing Course?
- State-approved curriculum
- Required in-person instruction
- Application guidance from start to finish
- Help locating affordable bonds and insurance
- Dealer software recommendations
- Auction registration assistance
- Lifetime practical knowledge for operating your dealership
Ready to Get Your Nebraska Dealer License?
When you're ready to start your dealership, visit NebraskaDealers.com and click the Pre License link at the top of the page to find a class near you.
My name is Delus Johnson, and I look forward to meeting you during your State Approved Nebraska Dealer Pre-Licensing Course. My goal is to make the licensing process as simple as possible while helping you launch a successful dealership.