Businesses may seek permits to operate unregistered vehicles nearby

The Department of Revenue may issue businesses written permits to operate unregistered motor vehicles on state highways. Applicants must use a business address in Georgia as the departure point, and the permit covers vehicles operated within two miles of that point. The vehicle may be operated only during daylight hours and only as the permit allows. The applicant must show required liability insurance and either a $50,000 surety bond or a current used motor vehicle parts dealer license. The department may refuse, suspend, or revoke a permit for good cause, including repeated violations. The department may charge a $150 issuance fee. Each permit lasts 12 months from the date it is issued. These provisions are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Vehicle dealers must give buyers a temporary operating permit without charging a fee, subject to listed exceptions. The rule covers new and used motor vehicle dealers and permits issued when a vehicle is sold. The permit does not apply to vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan or to dealers mainly selling salvage and other total-loss vehicles. The permit must use the department's standard design, include the vehicle identification number and expiration date, and may not resemble a Georgia license plate. The department may regulate electronic permit sales and may suspend a dealer's system access after notice and informal review for substantial noncompliance. A suspended dealer may request a formal hearing and may face fines, longer suspension, or other penalties for unlawful permit use. A temporary permit normally expires 45 days after the vehicle is purchased. The department may allow an extension when the purchaser's initial registration period is extended. These provisions are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Used vehicle and used-parts dealer license applicants must meet training or testing, bonding, insurance, and business-location requirements. The provisions cover people applying for used motor vehicle dealer or used motor vehicle parts dealer licenses and existing licensees subject to inspection. Applicants must have an established business, meet state residency or service-agent rules, and complete approved training or pass an approved examination within the preceding 12 months. Used car dealers must post a $50,000 bond, while used-parts dealers must post a $10,000 bond. Licensees must maintain required insurance and allow the board, the Department of Revenue, or peace officers to inspect business records and vehicles during reasonable business hours. The licensing board is subject to Georgia's Administrative Procedure Act. These provisions are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.