Some Florida auctions require both a business and auctioneer license
Florida law exempts some sales from auction licensing, but a covered auction can require both an auction-business license and the individual auctioneer's record.
Not every sale called an auction falls under Florida’s auction-license law. The law lists several exceptions. Some cover an owner selling personal goods or a charity sale run without pay. Other exceptions cover certain lien or storage sales, real-estate sales run by a broker, and vehicle sales open only to dealers. The facts of the sale matter.
When the law does cover the sale, look up two records. The auction business needs an AB license. The person who runs the sale needs an AU or AE license. If that person is an apprentice, also check the auctioneer who sponsors the work.
Use the DBPR FAQ and the law to sort out the exception question. Then use the license search to check each name and status. Do this before a fast sale with a buyer’s fee, reserve, deposit, storage cost, title issue, or short pickup window.
Before bidding, save the business name, auctioneer name, license number, item details, fees, payment rules, pickup address, and sale terms. For a car, boat, trailer, or home, keep the auction papers with the title or closing file.
An exception can turn on small facts. When a sale does not fit the usual pattern, ask DBPR or a lawyer before money moves.
Official sources
- DBPR - Auctioneer FAQs
- Florida Statutes 468.383 - Auction Exemptions
- Florida Statutes 468.385 - Auction Licenses
- DBPR - Verify a License
Last checked against these sources: July 29, 2026.
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