SEPTEMBER 27, 2006

Web service brings ease to renewal process

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today reminded auto dealers renewing their business licenses that they can check the status of their applications online.

"We’re pleased to offer dealers this online tool to quickly and accurately check the status of their renewal applications," Land said. "With this time saving Web site, dealers can focus on serving their customers instead of navigating state government. It’s one more way we’re using technology to make our customers’ lives easier."

This is the third year that the department has provided the Web service in conjunction with the mailed notices. To ensure timely processing, dealers are urged to have their renewal applications submitted by Nov. 1.

The licensed-dealer database is found on the department’s Web site, www.Michigan.gov/sos, by clicking on the "Services to Businesses" and "Automobile Dealers" buttons. The database provides the public with an up-to-date list of currently licensed auto dealers.

However, during the dealer license renewal period, the database is modified so that dealers can see if and when their applications were received and whether their license has been mailed. The information, listed under the "Date" and "Renewal Status" columns, is updated daily. These two columns are activated only during the renewal period from September through December.

Michigan law states that anyone in the business of buying, selling, brokering or otherwise dealing in at least five vehicles a year needs a dealer license. There are 10 different license classifications, including new vehicle, used vehicle, broker, wholesaler, vehicle scrap metal processor and automotive recycler.

Visit the department Web site for more information on services, requirements and branch office hours.

RELATED LINK
> Department of State Online Services