Free tool for used-car dealers
FTC Buyers Guide helper for car dealers
Short answer: if you sell more than five used vehicles in a 12-month period, the FTC Used Car Rule requires a Buyers Guide on each used vehicle you offer for sale. The FTC lists penalties of up to $53,088 per violation.
Sources: FTC, Dealer's Guide to the Used Car Rule and 16 CFR Part 455 (read 2026-11-11).
Not legal advice. This page and worksheet do not make you compliant with the Used Car Rule or any state law. The official form is published by the FTC; use it as is.
Fill-in worksheet
Worksheet only. This is not the official Buyers Guide.
Answers to copy onto the official FTC Buyers Guide
| Dealer | |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | |
| VIN | |
| Stock number | |
| Warranty box | As is, no dealer warranty |
| Service contract | Not offered |
| Language | English |
| Complaint contact |
Use the current official form from the FTC. Do not change its wording, type or layout. Print it in black ink on white stock, at least 11 inches high by 7 1/4 inches wide, and display it on the vehicle.
Get the official form
Questions
What is the FTC Buyers Guide?
A window form that the FTC Used Car Rule (16 CFR Part 455) requires dealers to display on every used vehicle they offer for sale to consumers. It tells the buyer whether the car is sold as is or with a warranty and who to contact about complaints.
Who has to use it?
Dealers who sell or offer more than five used vehicles in a 12-month period, per the FTC's Dealer's Guide to the Used Car Rule. Maine and Wisconsin have their own programs, and state law may add rules. If you are unsure whether you count as a dealer, ask a lawyer or your state dealer association.
What happens if I skip it?
The FTC lists a civil penalty of up to $53,088 per violation (inflation-adjusted figure shown on the FTC's Dealer's Guide, checked 2026-11-11).
Can I make my own Buyers Guide?
The FTC says dealers may print their own as long as it follows the required wording, type styles, sizes and format exactly, in black ink on white stock at least 11 by 7 1/4 inches. Because the exact format is defined by images in the rule, the safest route is to print the official form from the FTC.
Do I need a Spanish version?
If you conduct the sale in Spanish, the rule requires the Spanish form and the contract statement in Spanish. The FTC publishes the Spanish form.
Does this tool create a compliant Buyers Guide?
No. It does not create the official form and it does not make you compliant. It organizes the answers you copy onto the official FTC form so nothing is missed. It is general information, not legal advice.
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