Summary report: To legally sell or lease new or used recreational vehicles—such as motorhomes, travel trailers, or fifth wheels—in Florida, dealers must obtain a $10,000 surety bond (or $20,000 if operating more than four supplemental locations). This bond ensures the dealer complies with state licensing requirements and protects consumers financially in cases of fraud, misrepresentation, or contract breaches.
Updated: April 2026
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Florida Recreational Vehicle Dealer ($10,000) Bond
Florida Recreational Vehicle Dealer ($20,000) Bond
What is Florida Recreational Vehicle Dealer Bond?
A Florida Recreational Vehicle Dealer Bond is a three-party agreement between you (the Principal — the RV dealer), the Obligee (the State of Florida / FLHSMV), and a Surety (the bond company). By purchasing the bond, you make a financial guarantee to the state and the public that you will operate your dealership lawfully and fulfill all obligations to your customers.
The bond is not insurance for the dealer. It is consumer protection — if a customer suffers a financial loss because of your misconduct (fraud, failure to deliver a title, misrepresentation, etc.), they can file a claim against your bond. If the claim is valid, the surety company compensates the claimant up to the bond amount. You are then obligated to repay the surety in full.
The FLHSMV uses the following official definition of a recreational vehicle for licensing purposes:
“A recreational vehicle-type unit primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or another travel use, which either has its own motive power or is mounted on or drawn by a vehicle.”
— Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
This includes motorhomes (Class A, B, C), travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and toy haulers. It does not include camping trailers (pop-up/rag-top campers) for dealer licensing purposes.
⚖️ Governing Law: Florida Statutes Chapter 320, Section 320.771 establishes the bond requirement, bond amounts, and renewal obligations for recreational vehicle dealers. The bond must also comply with Chapters 319 and 320 of Florida Statutes. The regulating authority is the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Division of Motorist Services.
Who Needs a Florida RV Dealer Bond?
Under Florida law, you must hold a dealer license (and therefore a surety bond) if you buy, sell, offer for sale, display for sale, or deal in one or more recreational vehicles within any 12-month period. This applies to:
🆕New RV Dealer — License Type: RV
Permits the sale of both new and used recreational vehicles. To sell new RVs, you must have a signed franchise or dealer agreement with the manufacturer authorizing you to sell their brand/line-make. Both parties must sign the agreement.
Bond Required: $10,000 minimum
🔄Used RV Dealer — License Type: RU
Permits the sale of used recreational vehicles only. No manufacturer agreement is needed. Suitable for independent dealers who do not hold a franchise relationship with any RV manufacturer.
Bond Required: $10,000 minimum
❌ Who Does NOT Need a Florida RV Dealer Bond?
The following parties are specifically exempt from the RV dealer licensing and bond requirement:
Banks, credit unions, and finance companies that acquire RVs incidental to their regular business (e.g., through repossession).
Rental and leasing companies that sell RVs only to licensed dealers — not directly to the public.
Sellers of camping trailers (pop-up / rag-top type) to the general public.
Dealers handling both mobile homes and RVs — only the $25,000 Florida Mobile Home Dealer Bond is required. A separate RV bond is not needed.
💡Important dual-license rule: If you deal in both mobile homes AND recreational vehicles, Florida Statutes state that you only need to file the $25,000 Mobile Home Dealer Bond — not a separate RV dealer bond. This can result in significant savings. Confirm with FLHSMV if this applies to your situation.
How Much Does a Florida RV Dealer Bond Cost?
The bond amount is not what you pay. It is the maximum liability the surety will cover in the event of a valid claim. What you pay is the bond premium — a small percentage of the bond amount, determined primarily by your personal credit score.
Bond Amount
Credit Score
Estimated Premium Rate
Estimated Annual Cost
Who Qualifies
$10,000
680+
1.0% – 1.5%
$100 – $150
Excellent credit applicants
$10,000
650 – 679
1.5% – 2.5%
$150 – $250
Good credit applicants
$10,000
600 – 649
2.5% – 4.0%
$250 – $400
Fair credit applicants
$10,000
Below 600
4.0% – 10.0%
$400 – $1,000
Poor/no credit — bad credit programs
$20,000
680+
1.0% – 1.5%
$200 – $300
5+ supplemental licenses, excellent credit
$20,000
600 – 679
1.5% – 4.0%
$300 – $800
5+ supplemental licenses, fair credit
💳Credit-Based Underwriting
Your personal credit score is the primary factor. A higher score means a lower premium rate. Soft credit pulls are often used for initial quotes — applying won’t hurt your credit.
📅Pro-Rated Premiums
If you purchase your bond mid-year, the premium is typically pro-rated to the September 30 renewal date. You only pay for the portion of the term remaining.
🏦Bad Credit Options
Even with poor credit, most applicants can be approved. Financing options may be available to help spread the cost. Bad credit does not automatically disqualify you.
⚠️The bond is not insurance for you. If a valid claim is paid by the surety on your behalf, you are contractually obligated to reimburse the surety company for the full amount paid, plus any legal costs. Avoid claims by operating ethically and in full compliance with Florida dealer regulations.
How to Get a Florida RV Dealer Surety Bond
Obtaining your Florida RV dealer bond takes three simple steps and can typically be completed online.
1. Complete a Free Online Application
Provide your dealership name and address, license type (RV or RU), and number of supplemental locations. No credit card required for a quote. Most applicants receive an instant decision or a quote within one business day.
2. Review Your Quote & Choose Your Term
Your dedicated surety agent shops your application across multiple A-rated surety markets to find the lowest available premium. Review your personalized quote — no obligation to purchase. One-year terms are standard; two-year terms may be available at a discount.
3. Pay & Receive Your Bond Documents
Once you pay your invoice, your official bond documents are emailed to you immediately (or by the next business day for orders placed after 4 PM ET). The bond is filed in a format accepted by the FLHSMV. Most orders placed by 4 PM ET Monday–Friday are processed same day. Note: the name on your surety bond application must exactly match your full legal business name as it appears on your license application.
4. Submit to FLHSMV with Your License Application
Include your original signed bond (or letter of credit, if applicable) with your Florida RV dealer license application packet submitted to the FLHSMV regional office. See the full licensing checklist below for all required documents.
5. Renew Annually by September 30
Your bond must be renewed each year by September 30. Your surety provider will contact you in advance of the renewal date. Failure to renew your bond will result in your dealer license becoming invalid. Renewing on time keeps your dealership compliant and your bond active.
Complete Florida RV Dealer License Requirements
The surety bond is one part of the dealer license application. Here is the complete checklist of requirements set by the FLHSMV for RV dealer licensure in Florida. Requirements apply to both license types (RV and RU) unless noted.
1. Contact Your FLHSMV Regional Compliance Examiner
Before submitting your application, locate and contact the compliance examiner at the FLHSMV Motorist Services Regional Office for your county. The examiner must inspect and approve your dealership location. Requirements for location, display space, and office space for RV dealers are found in Florida Administrative Code 15C-7.003 and Florida Statutes §320.771(3)(g)(h)(i).
2. Complete Pre-Licensing Dealer Training
All applicants must complete a pre-licensing dealer training course from an FLHSMV-approved Dealer Training School. Upon completion, the school will issue a Certificate of Completion. A copy of this certificate must accompany your license application.
3. Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
Apply for an FEIN from the Internal Revenue Service at IRS.gov. Also obtain a Florida sales tax number from the Florida Department of Revenue.
4. Submit Electronic Fingerprints
All officers, directors, and principals of the dealership must submit electronic fingerprints through an FDLE-approved LiveScan registered submitter. A background check will be conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
5. Purchase Your Florida RV Dealer Surety Bond (or Letter of Credit)
Obtain a $10,000 or $20,000 surety bond from a licensed surety company. Alternatively, submit an irrevocable letter of credit using FLHSMV Form 86058. The bond must be executed on the official bond form approved by the FLHSMV (Form 86019).
6. Obtain Garage Liability Insurance
Provide proof of garage liability insurance meeting the minimum coverage: $25,000 combined single-limit liability (covering both bodily injury and property damage) and $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP). The dealership must maintain this coverage continuously.
7. Register Your Business with the Florida Division of Corporations
Provide proof of business registration obtained from the Florida Division of Corporations at Sunbiz.org. If applicable, provide copies of Articles of Incorporation, Partnership Agreements, or Articles of Organization and Operating Agreement (for LLCs).
8. Secure a Qualifying Dealership Location
The dealership location must be a permanent structure with: a dedicated office, a restroom, adequate lot space to display vehicles, posted business hours, and exterior signage. Provide a copy of the lease agreement or proof of ownership to the FLHSMV.
9. New RV Dealers: Provide Manufacturer Agreement (Franchise Only)
If you will be selling new recreational vehicles, you must provide a signed dealer development and management agreement (franchise agreement) from the manufacturer authorizing you to sell their specific brand or line-make. Both parties must sign the agreement.
10. Submit the License Application and Pay the Fee
🗓️ License and Bond Period: Both the dealer license and bond run from October 1 through September 30 each year. Even if you obtain your license near the end of the period, it will expire on September 30 of that year. Plan accordingly when calculating your first-year costs.
How the Florida RV Dealer Bond Protects Consumers
The Florida RV dealer surety bond protects consumers from financial harm caused by a dealer’s failure to comply with state law or fulfill their contractual obligations. Specific types of loss the bond covers include:
Failure to deliver a recreational vehicle after full or partial payment has been made by the buyer.
Failure to provide a clear title or misrepresentation of a vehicle’s title status.
Fraud or material misrepresentation in the sale or condition of a vehicle.
Violations of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act in connection with a vehicle sale.
Breach of a written sales contract or failure to honor agreed terms.
Dealer insolvency or bankruptcy resulting in consumer financial loss.
The Claims Process
1. Consumer Files a Claim
The harmed consumer submits a written claim to the surety company, documenting the loss and the dealer’s specific violation.
2. Surety Investigates
The surety company reviews the claim, contacts both parties, and assesses its validity against the bond terms.
3. Valid Claims Are Paid
If the claim is legitimate, the surety pays the consumer up to the full bond amount ($10,000 or $20,000).
4. Dealer Reimburses the Surety
The dealer is legally obligated to repay the surety company in full. The bond does not protect the dealer — it protects the consumer.
Penalties for Operating Without a Bond or License
Operating as an RV dealer in Florida without a valid license and surety bond is a serious offense. The consequences are significant and can include criminal penalties, civil liability, and administrative action by the FLHSMV.
⚠️ Criminal Penalty
Dealing in RVs without a license is a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida law, punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. A single act of unlicensed dealing is sufficient for criminal prosecution.
💰 Civil Liability
Violators are liable under Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. Civil penalties can reach $5,000 per violation, and a circuit court may issue a permanent injunction barring the individual from operating as an RV dealer.
🚗 Vehicle Seizure
Any recreational vehicles displayed for sale by an unlicensed individual may be removed from the premises under Section 316.1951 of the Florida Statutes. This can result in immediate business disruption and financial loss.
📋 Administrative Fines & License Action
The FLHSMV can assess administrative fines of up to $1,000 per violation against licensed dealers who violate Florida law. Licenses can be suspended or revoked based on violations of Chapters 319 and 320.
Florida Motor Vehicle & RV Dealer Bond Types
Florida has multiple dealer license categories, each with its own bond requirement. Use this reference table to confirm you’re getting the correct bond for your license type.
License Code
License Type
Bond Amount
Renewal Date
Description
RV
Recreational Vehicle Dealer (New & Used)
$10,000
September 30
Sell new and/or used RVs. Requires manufacturer agreement for new RV sales.
RU
Used Recreational Vehicle Dealer
$10,000
September 30
Sell used RVs only. No manufacturer agreement needed.
RV/RU +5
RV Dealer with 5+ Supplemental Licenses
$20,000
September 30
Any RV or RU dealer with more than four supplemental location licenses.
DH / BH
Mobile Home Dealer / Broker
$25,000
September 30
Also required if dealing in BOTH mobile homes and RVs (replaces RV bond).
VI
Independent Motor Vehicle Dealer (Used)
$25,000
April 30
Sell used motor vehicles at retail or wholesale.
VF
Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer (New)
$25,000
December 31
Sell new motor vehicles under a manufacturer franchise agreement.
VW
Wholesale Motor Vehicle Dealer
$25,000
April 30
Buy/sell between licensed dealers at wholesale only — no retail sales.
MR / RD / RI
RV Manufacturer / Distributor / Importer
$10,000
September 30
Manufacture, distribute, or import recreational vehicles in Florida.
* Bond requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the FLHSMV before applying. Source: Florida Statutes Chapters 319 and 320.
Insights & Interesting Facts
Getting a bonded title for an RV follows state-specific DMV processes when proof of ownership is missing, requiring a surety bond of 1.5-2x appraised value to protect prior owners. Costs typically total $100-$500, including 1-2% bond premium, $10-50 VIN inspection, $25-100 DMV fees.
Multi-State Multipliers
CA/TX/AZ: 1.5x value; FL/GA/CO: 2x; NV: 1.5x MSRP or 25% salvage; bond active 3-5 years for claims.
Appraisal Sources
NADA/KBB guides, dealer letters, or state-approved appraisers; e.g., $20k RV → $30k bond in 1.5x states.
Claim Risks
Prior owners/lienholders claim within bond term; surety pays up to penal sum, then seeks indemnity from buyer.
Processing Time
2-6 weeks post-submission; includes VIN check, notarized app, proof of purchase/bill of sale.
State
Multiplier
Ex. RV Value $20k → Bond
Premium Est. (1-2%)
Fees (VIN+DMV)
CA
1.5x
$30,000
$300-$600
$25-$150
TX
1.5x
$30,000
$300-$600
$15-$40
FL
2x
$40,000
$400-$800
$75-$85
AZ
1.5x
$30,000
$300-$600
$4-$25
CO
2x
$40,000
$400-$800
$25-$50
NV
1.5x MSRP
Varies
$200-$500
$10-$50
Florida RV Dealer Bond FAQ
How much does a Florida RV dealer bond cost?
Florida RV dealer bonds typically cost $100–$200 per year for the ,000 bond for applicants with good credit (680+ score). The premium is calculated as a percentage of the bond amount, based primarily on your personal credit. Applicants with credit between 600–649 may pay $250–$400, and those with lower credit or no credit history may pay more — but can still be approved through specialty programs. The bond is renewed annually, and your premium may change at each renewal based on your credit profile at that time.
What is the required bond amount for a Florida recreational vehicle dealer?
Under Florida Statutes §320.771:
$10,000 — for any single dealer who buys, sells, or deals in recreational vehicles and holds four or fewer supplemental location licenses.
$20,000 — for any single dealer with more than four supplemental location licenses.
Note: if you deal in both mobile homes and recreational vehicles, only the $25,000 Mobile Home Dealer Bond is required — no separate RV bond is needed.
When does the Florida RV dealer bond expire and how do I renew it?
The Florida RV dealer bond and dealer license both run on a cycle of October 1 through September 30. Your bond must be renewed each year before the September 30 expiration. If you obtain a bond mid-year (say, in March), it still expires on September 30 of that year — your first-year premium will typically be pro-rated accordingly.
Your surety provider will contact you in advance of the renewal date. Simply pay your renewal invoice and updated bond documents will be issued. Failure to renew on time can result in your license becoming invalid.
Who needs a Florida recreational vehicle dealer bond?
Any individual or business entity that buys, sells, offers for sale, displays for sale, or deals in one or more recreational vehicles within any 12-month period must obtain a dealer license and, therefore, a surety bond. This applies regardless of whether the RVs are new or used. Both the New RV Dealer (license type RV) and the Used RV Dealer (license type RU) require a minimum $10,000 bond.
Who is exempt from the Florida RV dealer bond requirement?
The following are exempt under Florida Statutes §320.771:
Banks, credit unions, and finance companies that acquire RVs incidental to their regular business (e.g., repossessions).
Rental and leasing companies that sell RVs only to other licensed dealers — not to the public.
Sellers of camping trailers (pop-up / rag-top style) to the general public.
Dealers handling both mobile homes and RVs — the $25,000 Mobile Home Dealer Bond covers both; no separate RV bond is required.
What is the difference between a New RV Dealer (RV) and Used RV Dealer (RU) license?
New RV Dealer (License Code: RV): Permits the sale of both new and used recreational vehicles. To sell new RVs, you must hold a signed manufacturer/franchise agreement authorizing you to sell that brand’s line-make. Both you and the manufacturer must sign the agreement. This is the more flexible license of the two.
Used RV Dealer (License Code: RU): Permits the sale of used recreational vehicles only. No manufacturer agreement is required. Suitable for independent dealers operating without a brand franchise. Both license types require a minimum ,000 surety bond.
What happens if I operate as an RV dealer without a bond or license in Florida?
Operating without a valid license and bond is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, carrying penalties including:
Up to six months in jail
A fine of up to $500
Civil penalties under Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act of up to $5,000 per violation
A permanent injunction from a circuit court barring you from operating as a dealer
Any vehicles displayed for sale may be seized under §316.1951 of the Florida Statutes
A single transaction while unlicensed is sufficient to trigger these penalties.
How does a claim against my Florida RV dealer bond work?
If a customer suffers financial harm due to your actions as a dealer — fraud, failure to deliver a vehicle, misrepresentation of title, breach of contract — they may file a claim with your surety company. The surety will investigate the claim and, if it is found to be valid, will compensate the claimant up to the full bond amount ($10,000 or $20,000).
Critically, a bond is not insurance. You are contractually obligated to reimburse the surety company for any amounts paid out in a claim, including legal costs. Claims can also result in your surety being canceled or future bond premiums increasing significantly. The best protection is operating ethically and in full compliance with Florida dealer laws.
Can I use a letter of credit instead of a surety bond?
Yes. Florida law permits RV dealer applicants to submit an irrevocable letter of credit from a qualified bank in lieu of a surety bond. The letter of credit must equal the required bond amount and be submitted to the FLHSMV on the required form (Form 86058).
For most dealers, a surety bond is more cost-effective since letters of credit typically require 100% cash collateral held at the bank. Surety bonds only require payment of a small annual premium.
How long does it take to get a Florida RV dealer bond?
Most applicants receive their bond documents the same day they apply — often within minutes of completing payment if the application is submitted during business hours. Orders placed by 4 PM ET Monday–Friday are typically processed the same day. Complex applications (high bond amounts, challenged credit, multiple locations) may take one business day. Emergency same-day options may be available for time-sensitive situations — call your surety provider to confirm.
What are the license fees for a Florida RV dealer license?
The FLHSMV charges the following fees for Florida RV dealer licenses:
New dealer license: $340
Annual license renewal: $140 (of which $40 is directed to the Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Protection Trust Fund)
In addition, a $200 fee is charged for each main dealership location approved by a compliance examiner. The garage liability insurance certificate must also be kept current. Always confirm the exact amounts with the FLHSMV (850-617-3003) before submitting your application, as fees are subject to change.
What is the FLHSMV’s official definition of a recreational vehicle?
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles officially defines a recreational vehicle as: “a recreational vehicle-type unit primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or another travel use, which either has its own motive power or is mounted on or drawn by a vehicle.”
This includes Class A, B, and C motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and toy haulers. It does not include pop-up/rag-top camping trailers for the purposes of dealer licensing requirements under §320.771.
Does my credit score affect my ability to get bonded?
Your credit score affects the cost of your bond premium, not your ability to be bonded. Most surety providers approve 99% of applicants regardless of credit history. Applicants with excellent credit (680+) get the lowest rates. Those with challenged credit pay higher rates, and financing options may be available to make the premium more manageable. Being denied a Florida RV dealer bond due solely to credit issues is very uncommon.
