Automobile Industry for me is more simplier to establish than it was before. Today's commercial institutions allow maximum generosity and credit variety to help for an auto business establishment. People are proving automobile as a very economic viable company with long run prospect. Renting cars and luxurious limos has took it's toll long time back, having rent a car business can come evern more easier. So we should believe in current market and go further, as proved by Pech limousine of Kansas Metro.

Another more realistic way to go might be to get your car dealer license, and like everyone has been saying, sell used cars.   But my idea has a little twist---you should sell used cars on ebay. I know quite a few used car dealers who have been having great success with selling used cars on ebay.   Ebay has become the #1 place to sell cars period. The advantage to using Ebay is that you have get more exposure from people who are willing to buy cars from another region or state; something you sometimes don't get using traditional advertising/marketing.   The catch is that if you are going to sell more than just a car that you own, you have to be a licensed car dealer to sell multiple cars or to even sell cars on consignment for other people.   However, the costs are minimal when selling a car on ebay because you pay a flat rate for the selling your car through auction and/or classified ad and ebay doesn't collect a final value fee for the sell of a car (check to be certain).   And again, this has been very lucrative for car dealers.   Plus, if you're having problems getting inventory or cash flow to buy inventory maybe to tests the waters you could help your local car dealers to sell cars on ebay or sell cars on consignment for other people to get an idea of how the business works and to make money at the same time. But again you have to be licensed as a car dealer.   Also, have you considered selling automobile parts? I've heard that's a good part of the automobile industry to get into right now since people will be holding onto their cars longer in this down economy as opposed to running out buying new cars.

I agree with mr. helpful, the automotive industry have taken a dive but as others have said if you are really keen in going into this business start small (used car is a got way to start).  This will limit your risk, You should also check your local DMV for any requirement the require.   But the best advice I can think off is other than the laws, do a market research on the area where you are planning to open up and see if the numbers are to your liking.   Either way I would like to wish you good luck in your endeavor.  

I found this article on web. Maybe this one can help you starting your automobile business. hxxp://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3012/is_9_180/ai_65352728/

What type of business do you want to start in the auto industry? If you are looking to get started in a smaller way, selling used cars maybe the way to go. But make sure you are educated by the local economy and the buying preferences of the locals. One local area may be fine with buying 15 year old cars and one area may only buy up to 5 year old cars.

Contact your state's department of motor vehicles (DMV) to inquire about the requirements to open a car dealership. Dealers must obtain state authorization before opening, usually by passing a multiple choice test. Most states issue a temporary certification that allows you to apply for a permanent dealership license.   Select a business location that is not in the immediate vicinity of residential properties.   Generate a buyer's guide, disclosure agreement and related forms to use in sales transactions. Contact the state DMV to learn of any required stickers.   Use innovative techniques to advertise your new car dealership. Promote the business through ads in newspapers and car magazines.

Not to discourage you at all, but the Auto industry in the USA has taken a severe hit over the past couple of years. I'd consider carefully before starting a business in this industry. What will your point of difference be? How will you ensure that you prosper when many others have been badly affected by the economy? Are you planning to open a franchise or stand alonr dealership?

Starting a car dealership is expensive, whether you plan to sell used cars or new ones. You might contact your state department of transportation. You will need a licence from them. You will also need to comply with state laws and local zoning laws concerning your car lot.

s_attili, A good place to start would be the business.gov Automobile Industry Page. This should at least give you a place to start. Another place from some good information is 10 Steps to Starting a Business. Good Luck. JimD