What Counts as an “Established Place of Business” for Georgia Dealers?

The established place of business requirement is the part of the Georgia dealer license that stops the most new dealers. It sounds vague, but it comes down to a clear list of things your location needs.

This guide breaks down the established place of business rules for Georgia dealers in plain English, including the extra rules for office suites.

What Is an Established Place of Business?

Every licensed Georgia used motor vehicle dealer must have a physical business location that meets Board Rule 681-6. It can be an open car lot or an office from which vehicle transactions are conducted. The licensing requirements are the same for both, except for the rules on displaying used cars.

Core Requirements for Every Georgia Dealer

A permanent sign. It must advertise your business as a used car dealership. Banners and real estate style signs do not count. Your local city or county rules also affect what sign is allowed.
A working landline. It must be listed in your business name.
Zoning certification. Your city or county planning and zoning office must approve the location.
A functioning office. A real workspace where business happens and records are kept.
Enough to show the inside and outside of your location, including signage.

Extra Rules for Office Suite Dealers

If your dealership is in an office complex suite:

Your business must be listed on the office complex marquee.
You must have signage on your suite door.
Your photos must show both the marquee listing and the suite door signage.
The used car display rules do not apply to you.

Rules for Home-Based Dealers

If you want to operate from your residence, your zoning must allow it, and the dealership must be in a detached building on the property. It cannot be set up inside your home.

Can Two Dealers Share an Office?

Generally no. The Board allows joint dealer operations at one location only under specific conditions. Each dealer must have a separate office, separate outside entrance, separate inventory, and separate records and files. Each must also have its own signage and phone listing.

Why It Matters After You Are Licensed

Your established place of business is where inspectors visit. Before your license is issued, you will have a preliminary inspection. After that, inspections are periodic and unannounced. If an inspector makes three documented unsuccessful attempts to inspect your dealership, your license can be subject to revocation.

If you move, you must file a change of address with the Board, including new photos and an updated insurance certificate. Updating your address on a website alone is not enough.

Established Place of Business Checklist

Zoning certification in hand
Permanent sign installed with your exact business name
Landline working and listed in your business name
Marquee listing (office complex)
Suite door signage (office complex)
Office furnished with a desk, files, and phone
Photos of the inside, outside, signage, and marquee

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an established place of business for a Georgia dealer?

It is the physical location that meets Board Rule 681-6, with a permanent sign, landline in your business name, zoning certification, and a functioning office.

Can an office suite be an established place of business?

Yes. Georgia allows dealers to operate from an office suite in an office complex.

Do I need a lot?

No. The display rules only apply to dealers with a lot.

Can I use a cell phone instead of a landline?

The Board requires a working landline listed in your business name.

Built for the Georgia Requirement

The Exchange at Decatur offers private, move-in ready auto dealer office suites in Decatur, GA. A professional, well-maintained property with flexible lease terms, minutes from Atlanta. Ask us how our suites work for dealers getting licensed.

Visit decaturofficespace.net or call 404-212-8878 to schedule a tour.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Review Board Rule 681-6 and confirm current requirements with the Georgia Board of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers.

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