How can I buy cars at auction?

There are two types of auctions—public car auctions and dealer car auctions. Public car auctions are open to anyone. Dealer car auctions, like those held by Manheim, are private and require you to have an auto dealer license as well as the necessary credentials, insurance and business license requirements as outlined by your state and/or county. You can also hire an auto broker to find and bid on a car for you. The car auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public.

How can I get a dealer license for car auctions?

Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) should list the rules required to become a licensed automotive dealer. You’ll need to apply for a business license, a dealer registration number and a tax or employer identification number to adhere to any sales tax and income rules. Most states require applicants to also create a DBA, submit a detailed business plan and undergo a background check. Lastly, you will also need a surety bond for insurance purposes to protect your customers and yourself.

How do car auctions work?

Most car auctions, either public or private dealer car auctions, are in person or online. A car auction can be overwhelming since there are many rules to follow during the bidding and sales process. There's a starting price listed for each car. If you find a car you like set your maximum bid. If your bid wins, the car is yours. All auctions have fees which are in addition to the vehicle’s final bid price. Be sure to understand these fees and account for them in your budget. All online auctions also have a shipping partner to fulfill delivery of the vehicle to you.

How much does a car auction license cost?

The cost of a car auction dealer license is $600 to $800 to get a business license and to set up your corporation. Then there is $15,000 in annual building and insurance costs.

How can I buy a car from an auction without a dealer license?

You either must know a licensed car dealer or someone you trust in the automotive industry. But most people wouldn’t want to go through this much trouble to buy a single vehicle. All the auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public and do not require buyers to have a dealer license. If you still insist on buying a car from a private dealer auction, your best bet is to find a car broker who focuses on representing clients, like you, to buy a vehicle at a dealer car auction.

How do I find car auctions near me?

Car auctions found on Classics on Autotrader occur weekly and monthly depending on the location and include a wide variety of vehicles—classics, RVs, motorhomes, trailers, ATVs, motorcycles as well as present-day vehicles and heavy-duty equipment. Most auctions listed on our site are open to the public although some may charge a bidder registration fee. We update our auctions page often so you can find a car auction near you.

Classic Car Auctions

Find classic and antique cars for sale at auction

Featured Auctions

AutoHunter

THE HUNT IS ON!!

Lakeland Winter Collector Car Auction

Collector Car vehicles - Online and in phone bidding Online and phone bidding available

Shiftgate Automotive Auctions - Weekly Online Classic & Collectable Car Auctions

Where:: Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
When:: May 03, 2022 - May 31, 2023
Lots close every Tuesday & Thursday starting at 1pm EST.

Antique, Classic & Collectable vehicles up for auction weekly - located in US & Canada More Info ›

PowerBidding

Where:: 9393 W 110th St, Overland Park, KS 66210, USA
When:: Nov 22, 2022 - Dec 31, 2023
Weekly Auctions

Highlights: Pre-Purchase inspected items for a more accurate description. Weekly auctions on Tues and Thurs afternoon. Check out our "Still for Sale" section for great deals. We make it simple by helping you through the auction process. Low Buyer and Seller fees More Info ›

Classic Cars, Motorcycles & ATV's and RV's - Weekly Auction

Where:
When:: Jan 01, 2023 - Dec 31, 2025
Auctions end every Friday starting at 4:00 pm

Miedema Auctioneering Weekly Auctions - featuring classic cars & trucks, powersports and RV's More Info ›

Clasiq - Weekly Classic & Collectable Car Auction

Where:: 3951 Higuera St, Culver City, CA 90232, USA
When:: Jan 01, 2023 - Dec 31, 2025
Lots close every Tuesday & Thursday starting at 5:00 PM

Auctions ending every Tuesday & Thursday - Online Only More Info ›

2022 Polaris Ranger 1000 UTV - up for auction

Where:: 71 Auction Dr, Jane Lew, WV 26378, USA
When:: Jan 23, 2023 - Feb 25, 2023
Lots begin to close on Friday, Feb. 24th at 4:00 PM

2022 Polaris Ranger UTV, large collection of guns, military artifacts and collectibles - live & online bidding. More Info ›

Estate Auction - Luxury Car, Motorcycle & Equipment - Live & Online

Where:: 115 E Puerner St, Jefferson, WI 53549, USA
When:: Jan 27, 2023 - Feb 26, 2023
Lots start closing Sunday, February 26, 2023 | 7:00 PM Central

2018 Mercedes E400 (Low Miles-15k) and 1991 Honda Nighthawk Motorcycle - up for auction! More Info ›

WEST TEXAS CLASSIC AUTO AUCTION - Live & Online Bidding

Where:: 2923 I-20 Frontage Rd, Midland, TX 79706, USA
When:: Jan 30, 2023 - Feb 25, 2023
Lots begin to close on FEBRUARY 25TH @ 10AM CST

PRESENTED BY REDNECK METALS, A FREIJE-JEFF MARTIN AUCTIONEERS PRODUCTION- FEBRUARY 25TH @ 10AM CST More Info ›

1966 Ford Mustang Convertible - Absolute Auction - Live & Online

Where:: 140 Worman Rd, Douglassville, PA 19518, USA
When:: Jan 30, 2023 - Feb 05, 2023
Online bidding closes Sunday, February 5th at 4:00pm

1966 Mustang Convertible (show condition), Mustang Edition Snap-On Tool Box, Snap On Tools - up for auction! More Info ›

1973 Chevrolet Camaro - Personal Property Auction - Online Only

Where:: 5546 Benedum Dr, Shinnston, WV 26431, USA
When:: Jan 30, 2023 - Feb 21, 2023
Lot closes on Tuesday, February 21st at 6:00 PM EST

1973 CHEVY CAMARO, 454 CI Automatic, VIN# 1Q87H3N102912 - up for auction! More Info ›

1985 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz - Estate Auction - Live & Online Bidding

Where:: 1280 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832, USA
When:: Feb 01, 2023 - Feb 13, 2023
Lots begin to close on February 13, 2023 @ 10:00 am

1985 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz; 4.1-liter V8 HT 4100 engine, digital fuel injection (135 HP DFI);two door Coupe - Up for Auction! More Info ›

Lakeland Winter Collector Car Auction

Where:: 4075 James C. Ray Dr, Lakeland, FL 33811, USA
When:: Feb 10, 2023 - Feb 11, 2023
12pm

Collector Car vehicles - Online and in phone bidding Online and phone bidding available More Info ›

KIko Auctioneers Presents Collector & Modern-Era Autos- Online only

Where:: 25 W Lebanon Rd, Dalton, OH 44618, USA
When:: Feb 10, 2023 - Feb 15, 2023

High End Cars - Commercial Trucks - Equipment - ATV - UTV Starts: Friday, February 10, 2023 - 12:00 PM Ends: Wednesday, February 15, 2023 - 6:00 PM More Info ›

Estate Auction - Classic & Collectable Cars - Live Auction

Where:: 421 John Deere Dr, Troy, MO 63379, USA
When:: Feb 12, 2023 Auction starts on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 11:30 AM

1993 Corvette Coupe, 5.7L LT1 & 2013 Fiat 500C Convertible - up for auction! More Info ›

Zephyrhills Classic Car Auction & Auto Event - NOW SEEKING CONSIGNMENTS

Where:: 2738 Gall Blvd, Zephyrhills, FL 33540, USA
When:: Feb 16, 2023 - Feb 18, 2023
Car Auction: Saturday (2/18/2023) – Start time 10 AM Swap Meet & Car Corral: Thursday (2/16/2023) through Saturday (2/18/2023) Car Show: Saturday (2/18/2023) – Start time 12 PM

Come out and join us for our February show full of classic cars, vendors, and fun! Hundreds of classic cars and vendors ready and waiting for show time! More Info ›

AUCTION ON THE OCEAN AT THE ELLIOTT MUSEUM - Classic & Collectable Vehicles

Where:: 825 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, USA
When:: Feb 16, 2023 - Feb 19, 2023
THURSDAY FEB 16 - DAY 1, 10am - 4pm: PREVIEW DAY/GALA EVENT - DETAILS TO BE ANNOUNCED FRIDAY FEB 17 - DAY 2, 10am-12pm: PREVIEW HOURS - 12pm-4pm: AUCTION: CLASSICS & MUSCLE SATURDAY FEB 18 - DAY 3, 10am-5pm: AUCTION: MUSCLE & EXOTICS SUNDAY FEB 19 - DAY 4, 11am-2pm: AUCTION: IMPORTS & TUNER CARS

FEATURING OVER 300 CARS - EXOTICS +CLASSICS+IMPORTS+MUSCLE More Info ›

The Super Auction - Classic Cars, Automobilia & Advertising Collection - Live & Online

Where:: 5121 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60615, USA
When:: Feb 18, 2023 Lot begins to close on Saturday, February 18th at 10:00 am

Featuring a 1961 Chrysler Newport Coupe and 1978 Lincoln Continental Mark V - up for auction! More Info ›

NO RESERVE - ONLINE ONLY COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION

Where:: 1204 Buchanan St, Carthage, IL 62321, USA
When:: Feb 20, 2023 February 20, 2023, with lots beginning to close at 9:00 AM CT.

We already have numerous collector vehicles in house. Including a extremely rare 1970 Plymouth Superbird!! More Info ›

GAA Greensboro Auto Auctions

Where:: 301 Norwalk St, Greensboro, NC 27407, USA
When:: Feb 23, 2023 - Feb 25, 2023
Thursday 8:00am: Gates Open 9:30am: Auction Starts with Classic Memorabilia 10:00am: Vehicle Sale Begins with Approximately 265 Vehicles Friday 8:00am: Gates Open 9:30am: Auction Starts with Classic Memorabilia 10:00am: Vehicle Sale Begins with Approximately 245 Vehicles Saturday 8:00am: Gates Open 9:30am: Auction Starts with Classic Memorabilia 10:00am: Vehicle Sale Begins with Approximately 185 Vehicles

FOOD & BEVERAGES: Complimentary food and beverages will be provided at the Classic Car Diner for all registered bidders, consignors and their guests. FREE PARKING: Over 2,000 spaces! (For safety reasons no strollers or pets allowed. No outside food or coolers are allowed.) AUCTION SEATING: Our ... More Info ›

2023 Petrolinia & Advertising Auction - Live & Online Bidding

Where:: Waterloo Firemen's Park, 500 Park Ave, Waterloo, WI 53594, USA
When:: Feb 25, 2023 - Feb 26, 2023
Day 1 - Saturday, February 25, 2023 | 10:00 AM Central Day 2 - Sunday, February 26, 2023 | 10:00 AM Central

Two Day Absolute Petroliana Auction for Joe Disciullo and Others - Fireman's Park More Info ›

RM Sotheby's Amelia Island Auction - Live & Online

Where:: Lynndale Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
When:: Mar 02, 2023 - Mar 03, 2023
Lots begin to close at 4:00 PM on Friday, March 3rd.

THE ORIGINAL AUCTION HOUSE OF THE AMELIA ISLAND CONCOURS!! More Info ›

Broad Arrow Auctions - Inaugural Amelia Island Auction - Live & Online Bidding

Where:: 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
When:: Mar 03, 2023 - Mar 04, 2023
Gates open on both days at 9:00 AM EST

Now Inviting Consignments - Over 200 Cars Expected!! More Info ›

Vicari Auctions Presents Orlando- 2 Full Days!!

Where:: 5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
When:: Mar 10, 2023 - Mar 11, 2023

Two Full Days! Orlando More Info ›

Premier Auction Group - Gulf Coast Classic - NOW TAKING CONSIGNMENTS

Where:: 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, USA
When:: Mar 17, 2023 - Mar 18, 2023
GATES OPEN @ 9 AM, AUCTION STARTS @ 9:45 AM BOTH DAYS

Over 300+ Muscle Cars, Classics, Exotics, and much more crossing the Auction Block in beautiful Punta Gorda, FL. More Info ›

Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Car Auctions

How can I buy cars at auction?
+ −
There are two types of auctions—public car auctions and dealer car auctions. Public car auctions are open to anyone. Dealer car auctions, like those held by Manheim, are private and require you to have an auto dealer license as well as the necessary credentials, insurance and business license requirements as outlined by your state and/or county. You can also hire an auto broker to find and bid on a car for you. The car auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public.
How can I get a dealer license for car auctions?
+ −
Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) should list the rules required to become a licensed automotive dealer. You’ll need to apply for a business license, a dealer registration number and a tax or employer identification number to adhere to any sales tax and income rules. Most states require applicants to also create a DBA, submit a detailed business plan and undergo a background check. Lastly, you will also need a surety bond for insurance purposes to protect your customers and yourself.
How do car auctions work?
+ −
Most car auctions, either public or private dealer car auctions, are in person or online. A car auction can be overwhelming since there are many rules to follow during the bidding and sales process. There's a starting price listed for each car. If you find a car you like set your maximum bid. If your bid wins, the car is yours. All auctions have fees which are in addition to the vehicle’s final bid price. Be sure to understand these fees and account for them in your budget. All online auctions also have a shipping partner to fulfill delivery of the vehicle to you.
How much does a car auction license cost?
+ −
The cost of a car auction dealer license is $600 to $800 to get a business license and to set up your corporation. Then there is $15,000 in annual building and insurance costs.
How can I buy a car from an auction without a dealer license?
+ −
You either must know a licensed car dealer or someone you trust in the automotive industry. But most people wouldn’t want to go through this much trouble to buy a single vehicle. All the auctions listed on Classics on Autotrader are open to the public and do not require buyers to have a dealer license. If you still insist on buying a car from a private dealer auction, your best bet is to find a car broker who focuses on representing clients, like you, to buy a vehicle at a dealer car auction.
How do I find car auctions near me?
+ −
Car auctions found on Classics on Autotrader occur weekly and monthly depending on the location and include a wide variety of vehicles—classics, RVs, motorhomes, trailers, ATVs, motorcycles as well as present-day vehicles and heavy-duty equipment. Most auctions listed on our site are open to the public although some may charge a bidder registration fee. We update our auctions page often so you can find a car auction near you.