Illinois RT DS 29 Renewal Application Instructions

Illinois RT DS 29 Renewal Application Instructions – Form RT DS 29 is the official Renewal Application and Instructions issued by the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) Vehicle Services Department, Dealer Licensing Section. This form provides step-by-step guidance for renewing dealer licenses, remitter licenses, in-transit plates, repossessor plates, and related credentials in Illinois.

Licensed vehicle dealers, manufactured home dealers, buy-here-pay-here dealers, and remitters in the United States (specifically Illinois) must renew annually. Licenses expire on December 31 each year. The SOS mails renewal notices in September, and Form RT DS 29 accompanies or explains the renewal packet.

You can download the current Form RT DS 29 PDF directly from the official source here: Download Illinois Form RT DS 29 (PDF). Always verify the latest version on the official Illinois Secretary of State website at ilsos.gov.

Who Needs to Complete Form RT DS 29?

This form applies to:

  • Franchise motor vehicle dealers
  • Independent (used) vehicle dealers
  • Manufactured home dealers
  • Buy Here Pay Here used vehicle dealers
  • Remittance agents
  • Holders of dealer plates, in-transit plates, and repossessor plates

Any person or business selling five or more vehicles per year in Illinois generally requires a dealer license under the Illinois Vehicle Code. Renewal is mandatory to continue legal operations.

Important Renewal Deadlines

To receive your new Certificate of Authority and license plates by January 1, the SOS must receive your completed renewal application by November 15.

All licenses expire on December 31 of the current year. Late submissions may delay processing and risk operating without valid credentials. Renewal notices are typically mailed in September. If you do not receive one, contact the Dealer Licensing Section immediately at 217-782-7817.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing Form RT DS 29

Follow these official instructions carefully to avoid delays:

  1. Review the pre-filled information — Your renewal application shows the data currently on file with the SOS. If any details (business name, address, ownership, etc.) have changed, call the Dealer Licensing Section at 217-782-7817 before submitting.
  2. Answer all questions completely — Incomplete applications will not be processed.
  3. Sign and notarize the application — The form must be signed by an authorized individual and notarized.
  4. Calculate and enclose the correct fees — Use the Fee Schedule on the form or the online Dealer Renewal System at ilsos.gov (fees calculate automatically online).
  5. List an Illinois resident — All licenses require an Illinois resident to act as the dealer’s agent or legal representative.

Required Supporting Documents for Dealer Renewals (DL, DLT, DLM)

In addition to the completed and notarized Form RT DS 29, include:

  • Designated Agent Bond (original document only — no copies) if newly licensed within the past 60 months.
  • Certificate of Insurance (not required for trailer dealers) showing minimum coverage:
    • $100,000 bodily injury/death per person
    • $300,000 bodily injury/death per accident
    • $50,000 property damage
    • OR $350,000 combined single limit

    The certificate must expire on December 31 of the renewal year or state “continuous until canceled.” It must be issued after August 1 and include a policy number (binders are not accepted). Business name and address(es) must match the application exactly.

  • Number of vehicles sold in the previous calendar year (required to calculate allowable dealer plates).
  • Current Illinois Department of Revenue tax number.

Fee Schedule Overview

Key renewal fees (subject to change — confirm on the current form or online system):

  • Certificate of Authority – Franchise Motor Vehicle Dealer: $1,000
  • Certificate of Authority – Vehicle Dealer: $1,000
  • Certificate of Authority – Manufactured Home Dealer: $1,000
  • Certificate of Authority – Buy Here Pay Here Used Vehicle Dealer: $1,000
  • Supplemental Certificate of Authority (additional locations): $50–$100 depending on type
  • Master Dealer Plates (one set): $45
  • Duplicate Dealer Plates: $13 per set (quantity based on prior-year sales)
  • Extra Duplicate Dealer Plates: $151 per set
  • Extra ID Cards: $3 each
  • UDL Certificate of Authority: $50

Plate quantities are determined by sales volume in the prior calendar year using the schedules printed on Form RT DS 29. For example, dealers selling 26–100 vehicles may receive a master set plus up to seven duplicate sets at $13 each.

Payment must be by check or money order payable to the Illinois Secretary of State. The online renewal system calculates fees automatically.

How to Submit Your Renewal

Online option: Use the Dealer License Online Renewal Service at ilsos.gov. Enter the PIN from your renewal notice. Print the invoice, then mail payment, the signed application, and supporting documents.

Mail option: Send the completed, notarized application, fees, and required documents to:

Illinois Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
Dealer Licensing Section
501 S. Second St.
Springfield, IL 62756
Phone: 217-782-7817

Applications without required documentation and full payment will not be processed.

Tips for a Smooth Illinois Dealer License Renewal

  • Start early — aim to submit by mid-October to meet the November 15 deadline.
  • Double-check that insurance and bond names/addresses exactly match your application.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit.
  • Update your email address with the SOS so you receive legislative and administrative updates.
  • If ownership changes, the license is not transferable — the new owner must apply for a new license.

Additional Resources from Trusted Official Sources

For the most current information, always refer to official Illinois Secretary of State resources:

Form RT DS 29 ensures Illinois vehicle dealers and related businesses remain compliant with state law. Completing the renewal accurately and on time protects your ability to operate legally in the United States market. Download the form today and follow the instructions carefully for a successful renewal.

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