Classic Car Auctions

Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Car Auctions

• How can I buy cars at auction?

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  There are two types of auctions—public car auctions and dealer car auctions. Public car auctions are open to anyone. Dealer car auctions, like those held by Manheim, are private and require you to have an auto dealer license as well as the necessary credentials, insurance and business license requirements as outlined by your state and/or county. You can also hire an auto broker to find and bid on a car for you. The car auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public.

• How can I get a dealer license for car auctions?

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  Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) should list the rules required to become a licensed automotive dealer. You’ll need to apply for a business license, a dealer registration number and a tax or employer identification number to adhere to any sales tax and income rules. Most states require applicants to also create a DBA, submit a detailed business plan and undergo a background check. Lastly, you will also need a surety bond for insurance purposes to protect your customers and yourself.

• How do car auctions work?

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  Most car auctions, either public or private dealer car auctions, are in person or online. A car auction can be overwhelming since there are many rules to follow during the bidding and sales process. There's a starting price listed for each car. If you find a car you like set your maximum bid. If your bid wins, the car is yours. All auctions have fees which are in addition to the vehicle’s final bid price. Be sure to understand these fees and account for them in your budget. All online auctions also have a shipping partner to fulfill delivery of the vehicle to you.

• How much does a car auction license cost?

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  The cost of a car auction dealer license is $600 to $800 to get a business license and to set up your corporation. Then there is $15,000 in annual building and insurance costs.

• How can I buy a car from an auction without a dealer license?

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  You either must know a licensed car dealer or someone you trust in the automotive industry. But most people wouldn’t want to go through this much trouble to buy a single vehicle. All the auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public and do not require buyers to have a dealer license. If you still insist on buying a car from a private dealer auction, your best bet is to find a car broker who focuses on representing clients, like you, to buy a vehicle at a dealer car auction.

• How do I find car auctions near me?

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  Car auctions found on Classics on Autotrader occur weekly and monthly depending on the location and include a wide variety of vehicles—classics, RVs, motorhomes, trailers, ATVs, motorcycles as well as present-day vehicles and heavy-duty equipment. Most auctions listed on our site are open to the public although some may charge a bidder registration fee. We update our auctions page often so you can find a car auction near you.