January 28, 2026

Lawful Dealer Plate Use

During these times of times of heightened tension and unease, this email serves as a reminder that Minnesota statute limits the lawful use of dealer plates to the following activities:
  • Business and personal use by the dealer, dealer’s spouse,
    or full-time employee
  • Business use by part-time employees
  • On courtesy vehicles when a customer’s vehicle is in for
    repair or maintenance
  • For demonstration purposes for prospective buyers (up to 14 days)
  • For a promotional event
Please remember to include required documentation whenever a vehicle with a dealer plate leaves your lot. For courtesy vehicle use, ensure the customer has a “Courtesy Vehicle Agreement” in the vehicle. This agreement should include the list of authorized drivers, drivers license numbers, and dates of use. For other dealer plate uses, ensure the vehicles contain documentation of a valid drivers license, proof of insurance, and reason for use. (Your MADA Sales Representative can get you these forms if you do not already have them!)
Please note that unlawful use of dealer plates is grounds for suspension or revocation of a dealer license. We strongly encourage our members to utilize dealer plates for authorized purposes only. We strongly advise against providing dealer plates (or number plates) to any outside agencies or individuals.

Independent wholesale auto auction services

Recent News & Updates

MADA’s Efforts on Dealer License Background Checks 

MADA has received a lot of member outreach about the new dealer license background checks that took effect on January 1, 2026. We’ve been working hard to resolve this issue and wanted to provide a brief update on our efforts. Behind the scenes, MADA has been having...

read more

Electric Vehicle Shock

Electric Vehicle Shock – What’s Really Happening in the Auto Industry? Electric vehicles (EVs) are not just cars — they’re a story about how transportation, consumer demand, and policy are colliding in real time. In Case File #182: Electric Vehicle Shock of The Crisis...

read more