Useful disclosure and vehicle-check resources

FTC Buyers Guides

The FTC’s Used Car Rule requires covered dealers to display a Buyers Guide and provide it to the buyer. Use the appropriate language and warranty version. Wisconsin has a separate comparable disclosure system, so follow its state requirements.

Follow the FTC’s rules for timing, display, warranty information and changes agreed to at the sale. Use the current forms rather than copying a Buyers Guide from an unrelated vehicle.

Vehicle history and recalls

NHTSA offers a recall lookup by VIN or license plate. Its results have limitations, including some newly announced recalls and older records. A result showing no open recall is not a mechanical inspection.

The Department of Justice lists approved NMVTIS providers for title-history reports. Access and fees differ by provider. A history report and a physical inspection answer different questions; use the information together.

Advertising and customer information

The FTC’s September 2026 pricing-transparency FAQs explain how the agency views advertised vehicle prices, mandatory charges, discounts and optional items. Keep that resource with your advertising review process.

Dealers that finance or facilitate financing should also review the FTC’s dealer-specific Safeguards Rule guidance. Cyber coverage can be part of your risk planning, but it does not replace an information security program.

Cash reporting and dealer education

The IRS has a dealership-specific Form 8300 Q&A for cash payments and related transactions. Use its definitions and filing instructions when deciding what must be reported.

NIADA offers dealer education and a state affiliate directory. Some training and resources carry a fee or require membership. State licensing agencies remain the source for their own accepted courses and licensing rules.

Keep reading

Sources & resources

Policy wording controls actual coverage.