A buyer’s license allows you to bid on and purchase vehicles at wholesale motor vehicle auctions or dealerships. Licensed buyers can only buy vehicles on behalf of their employer(s), not for their own or other’s use.
Requirements
- Must be an employee of a licensed motor vehicle dealer.
- Employees of an out-of-state or
international licensed dealer may also qualify
- Employees buying for more than one employer must have a separate buyer’s license for each employer and an application signed by each employer
- At least 18 years old
Note: Upon receipt of your online application, the Department will perform a background check. Your license application may be denied if you have been convicted of certain types of crimes.
Learn more about license denials and your rights if you have been denied.
Steps to apply for a new, renewal or replacement buyer’s license
Apply Online
- Have your employing dealer or wholesaler sign the form.
- If you will be bidding on vehicles for more than one employer, you must submit a separate, signed application for each employer.
- If the employer is an out-of-state business, include a copy of the dealer license or other credential authorizing the business to operate in that state or jurisdiction.
**NEW** Buyer’s licenses will be emailed to the dealer's business email address listed on the application.
Expiration
Buyer’s cards expire on the same date as the employer’s dealer license. For out-of-state card holders, your Wisconsin credential expires on the same date as your home state dealer license or 12 months from the date we receive the application, whichever is sooner.
Veterans may qualify for a fee waiver for an initial license.
Find out more!
Fees
- Out-of-state buyer’s license is $6.
- In-state buyer’s license expiring in one year or less is $6.
- In-state buyer’s license expiring in more than a year is $12.
Questions?