High School

Business, math, economics, and accounting courses will be the most valuable to you in preparing for business ownership. In addition, you will need to hone your communication skills, which will be essential in establishing relationships with automotive companies and customers. Take computer science classes since it is virtually impossible to work in today's business world without knowing how to use a computer or the Web. In addition, take as many automotive classes as possible.

Postsecondary Training

As the business environment becomes more competitive, many people in this field are opting for an academic degree as a way of getting more training. A bachelor's degree, or at least an associate's degree, emphasizing business communications, marketing, business law, business management, and accounting, should be pursued. It's a good idea to complete at least one internship at an automobile dealership or in another retail establishment to obtain hands-on experience. Some people choose to get a master's in business administration or other related graduate degree. Special business schools offer a one- or two-year program in business management. Some correspondence schools also offer courses on how to plan and run a business.

Aspiring dealership owners should be aware that is quite difficult to obtain a dealership. Many manufacturers often put those interested in becoming a dealer through an intensive training and interview process. General Motors, for example, offers a Minority Dealer Development Program (https://gmdiversitydealerrelations.com). Qualified individuals receive training in such areas as management, operations, and automotive retailing. Completion of the academy program does not guarantee future dealership opportunities. Manufacturers consider many factors when awarding a new franchise. For example, they take into account the number of existing dealerships that are currently being sold, if approval has been given for the establishment of new dealerships, and the number of qualified candidates already on the waiting list for dealerships.

NADA also offers a NADA/ATD Academy for future dealers and managers. For more information, visit https://www.nada.org/academy.

Other Education or Training

The American International Automobile Dealers, the National Automobile Dealers Association, and the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association provide continuing education opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association offers the certified master dealer designation to used motor vehicle dealers who successfully complete the program. Contact the association for more information.

A business license is a requirement in all states. Individual states or communities may have zoning codes or other regulations specifying what type of business can be located in a particular area. Check with your state's chamber of commerce or department of revenue for more information on obtaining a license.

Students should obtain as much experience in the field as possible by participating in summer internships and part-time jobs at automobile dealerships or at other retailers.

Whatever the experience and training, a dealership owner needs a lot of energy, patience, and fortitude to overcome the slow times and other difficulties involved in running a business. Other important personal characteristics include maturity, creativity, and good business judgment. Business owners also clear communicators who are able to motivate employees and delegate authority.