Ron E Widener & Associates

Business Details

36 Years

experience

Automotive Dealer Training & Insurance Services in Austell, GA

Ron E Widener & Associates has been a trusted partner for automotive dealers in Austell, GA, since 1990. With over 35 years of industry experience, we specialize in pre-license seminars, continuing education, insurance services, and dealer consulting. Our team, led by Ron Widenera former Georgia Independent Automobile Dealers Association lobbyist and licensed insurance agentprovides state-approved training programs that have helped hundreds of dealers navigate licensing requirements and industry regulations. We offer comprehensive insurance solutions tailored to dealerships, including garage liability and rent-a-car coverage, alongside specialized consulting to prevent fines and streamline operations.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our long-standing reputation as Georgia's premier resource for dealer education and risk management. By combining practical training with personalized support, we empower dealers to build sustainable, profitable businesses while maintaining compliance with evolving industry standards.

Services

Pre-License Seminars Continuing Education Dealer Insurance License Bonding Rent-A-Car Systems Auction Training Garage Liability Premises Liability Vehicle Title Training Dealer Consulting

Details

Year established: 1990

Highlights and features

35+ years of automotive industry experience and state-approved training since 1988
Customized insurance packages with A+ rated carriers for dealerships
On-site consulting to prevent regulatory fines and improve operations
Exclusive rent-a-car systems training without franchise requirements
Proven auction training to maximize inventory acquisition profits

Website

Update Listing

Services

Pre-License Seminars

Our state-approved pre-license seminars provide mandatory training for Georgia used motor vehicle dealer applicants. These comprehensive programs cover licensing requirements, title processing, and industry regulations. With sessions available three times monthly, our seminars combine 35+ years of expertise with practical guidance to prepare new dealers for successful business operations.

Dealer Insurance

We offer specialized insurance packages tailored to automotive dealerships' unique risks. Our A+ rated carrier partnerships provide garage liability, premises liability, and rent-a-car coverage with flexible terms. With 20+ years of industry experience, we help dealers secure cost-effective protection that meets regulatory requirements and safeguards business assets.

Rent-A-Car Systems

Our ACR Rent-A-Car Systems program helps dealers establish profitable rental operations without franchise fees. The service includes training on effective rental practices, insurance solutions, and operational support. This turnkey system enables dealers to create additional revenue streams while leveraging their existing inventory and facilities.

Auction Training

Led by auction specialist Terry Faison, our training programs teach dealers how to register for auctions, evaluate vehicles, and bid effectively. The curriculum covers inventory sourcing strategies, pricing analysis, and seller verification techniques. Classroom and onsite options provide practical skills to maximize profits from wholesale vehicle acquisitions.

Continuing Education

State-mandated continuing education seminars ensure license compliance through biennial six-hour training programs. Our courses cover evolving regulations, tax requirements, and title processing updates. Approved presenters Ron and Reggie Widener deliver practical insights to help established dealers maintain compliance while improving operational efficiency and industry knowledge.

People

Ron E. Widener

President

With 35+ years in the automotive industry, Ron is a licensed insurance agent and former Georgia Independent Automobile Dealers Association lobbyist. He established the first state-approved pre-license seminar program in 1988 and operates one of Georgia's largest dealer insurance agencies.

Reggie Widener

Licensed Insurance Agent

Reggie brings 18 years of automotive experience as a licensed insurance agent and state-approved seminar instructor. He specializes in dealer insurance, license bonds, and application processing, providing expert guidance to help dealers navigate regulatory requirements and insurance solutions.

Terry Faison

Auction Specialist

As lead auction trainer, Terry offers classroom and onsite instruction covering registration processes, bidding strategies, and vehicle valuation techniques. With extensive industry experience, he helps dealers maximize profits through effective inventory acquisition and auction participation strategies.

Questions

What are Georgia's requirements for obtaining a used car dealer license?

Georgia requires completion of a state-approved pre-license seminar, submission of a completed application with supporting documents, and acquisition of required insurance and bonds before submitting your license application to the state.

Do you offer insurance for both new and established dealerships?

Yes, we provide customized insurance packages for both new and established dealerships, including garage liability, premises liability, and specialized coverage options tailored to your business needs.

Can I add rent-a-car services to my existing dealership?

Yes, our ACR Rent-A-Car Systems program allows dealers to implement rental operations without franchise fees, including training, insurance solutions, and operational support to create additional revenue streams.

How often must I complete continuing education for license renewal?

Georgia requires licensed dealers to complete six hours of continuing education every two years prior to license renewal, covering updated regulations and industry best practices.

What auction training options are available?

We offer classroom sessions ($149) and onsite training ($100) covering auction registration, bidding strategies, vehicle valuation, and seller verification techniques to maximize inventory acquisition profits.

Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Ann Von

Dec 15, 2021 Report

Great, informative program. Easy to follow the material guides and the instructor encouraged participants to interact. I would recommend this Pre-License Seminar.

Neda Michell

Sep 15, 2021 Report

This is a great place for auto broker resources. The prelicense class is scheduled at times for different schedules. The class environment is relaxed yet professional and the instructor answers all questions and goes into great detail. You can also get your fingerprints done here as well as get information on bonding and anything else pertaining to getting your dealer license.

Glenn Easterwood

Nov 15, 2019 Report

Amazing! Trust me there may be some people that are cheaper but when you need something or have lost something you want to have Ron Widener and his staff, Rhonda exspecially in your corner. Its never a question its yes sir I will send it right over. Love being their customer.

Sorry Service

Mar 19, 2018 Report

This unprofessional place does not deserve the one star I gave them. I will not be back in their office again. I had to go back 3 different times to get clerical errors fixed on my paperwork. Why have someone take time to complete an application if your not capable reading what is on the application to put on certificates of insurance and bonds. Does anyone proof read the documents before they tell you the documents are ready?

They are not friendly in that office. In fact, they are hateful individuals. Take my advice read the other posts go somewhere that appreciate your business, capable of getting your documents right THE FIRST TIME, and has a clean inviting office. The office is nasty and unwelcoming! It is cluttered and looks as if the carpet needs replacing. The whole place looks as if it needs a touch of bleach!

Ron Widener

Feb 24, 2018 Report

While we attempt to make every client happy, sometimes a loss is not covered. This can change their experience with our company. We try to explain that all Insurance policies have limitations. We do our best to review every customers's quote, but often we find undisclosed info which will later negatively affect their policy. We do appreciate thier understanding and business. Ron Widener, CEO/Agent

Zana Hawleri

Feb 06, 2018 Report

Starting a business can be very challenging! However, the insurance part of it was a breeze. Once I got in touch with Reggie, it was smooth sailing from there. I got my quote back in two days. I applied and had my insurance and bond within hours! I would definitely recommend for anyone who's in need of insurance and bond for their used car dealership business.