A person can get a job at a car dealership with no experience by applying for entry-level positions, showing strong communication skills, and completing dealership training programs. Most dealerships hire motivated candidates with a high school diploma who can work long hours, learn quickly, and help customers confidently.
Find Entry-Level Dealership Roles
Most car dealerships offer jobs that do not need past experience. They often look for people who want to learn, talk clearly, and work hard.
Common entry-level roles include:
- Car salesperson trainee
- Lot attendant
- Receptionist
- Internet lead responder
- Appointment setter
Many dealerships will train new hires. They teach how to handle customers, explain car features, and sell cars. Some people start by washing vehicles or moving cars on the lot, then move into auto sales jobs.
Gain Basic Sales Skills Fast
You can get ready for a car salesman job even before applying. Practice talking to strangers, asking questions, and listening. These soft skills help in automotive sales.
Helpful skills include:
- Helping customers feel at ease
- Making phone calls to set appointments
- Sharing details about new models
- Learning how to effectively communicate
- Solving problems fast
Use free online videos or short sales courses to boost your sales experience. Some people learn by watching how others talk about cars and explain a car sale.
Use Education and Energy
Most car salesman requirements include a high school diploma. A college degree is not required. What matters is your energy, confidence, and attitude.
What managers look for:
- Clear speech
- Smiling face
- Willingness to learn
- Energy to work long hours
- A real interest in motor vehicles
If you’re switching careers, say how your past jobs helped you grow. Managers respect workers who show up, stay late, and help the team.
Apply to Supportive Dealerships
Pick a dealership that helps new hires. Ask if they have a training program. Some stores even offer a small base salary while you train.
Look for:
- Paid training programs
- Supportive sales manager or team
- Good online reviews
- Team that sells many cars
- Path for career growth
Walking in and talking to the sales team can show your interest. Bring a resume and dress neatly. Shake hands and ask about job openings.
Do Well in the Interview
Job interviews at car dealerships are about how you talk, listen, and connect. Show you can effectively communicate. Smile, stand tall, and speak clearly.
Prepare to:
- Talk about why you want the job
- Share how you helped people before
- Ask questions about the dealership
- Be ready for a short role-play
- Say you can work long hours and learn fast
Practice with a friend or family member before going in. Confidence often beats prior experience.
Start Learning on Day One
Most training programs begin on your first day. You may shadow a senior car salesman, read manuals, or watch videos about selling cars.
What training covers:
- Learning about vehicles and trims
- Talking to potential buyers
- Booking test drives
- Answering questions about car features
- Learning how to close a sale
Work hard, follow the rules, and help the team. A strong first 30 days builds trust. Show your manager that you can be a successful car salesman.
Understand Pay and Career Path
Most new car salesmen earn commission. That means the more you sell, the more you earn. Many start with a small base salary and grow from there.
Integrated Table Section
Table: Starting Pay and Roles in Car Dealerships for New Hires
| Position | Base Salary | Commission Type | Avg. First-Year Pay | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sales Trainee | $25,000 | Tiered | $38,000–$45,000 | High school diploma |
| Lot Attendant | $27,000 | N/A | $27,000 | None |
| Internet Sales Support | $28,500 | Per lead | $40,000–$50,000 | Customer service background |
| Junior Salesperson | $30,000 | Per unit | $50,000–$60,000 | Entry-level sales knowledge |
| Receptionist | $26,000 | N/A | $26,000 | Phone and greeting skills |
Source: Automotive News, NADA Workforce Study 2024
After a year, top earners move into senior sales representative or sales manager roles. Over time, you can earn $70,000 or more if you build a proven track record.
Most Popular Questions About Getting a Job at a Car Dealership with No Experience
These are the questions we get asked most often when it comes to getting hired in the car sales industry with no background.
Can I get hired at a car dealership with no experience?
Yes. Most dealerships hire entry-level people with no background in auto industry roles. They offer full training to help you start.
Do I need a degree to be a car salesperson?
No. A high school diploma is enough for nearly all car salesperson positions. A good attitude and sales ability matter more.
How much can I earn as a first-year car salesperson?
Most new hires earn between $35,000 and $50,000. The pay depends on your sales and the number of cars you sell.
What does training look like?
Training programs teach about car features, selling, talking to customers, and doing a test drive. You may shadow a team member or attend sales classes.
Can someone switch careers into car sales?
Yes. People from retail, food service, or delivery often do well. If you show drive and speak well, you can do better than other candidates.
What’s the work schedule like?
Expect long hours, weekends, and evening shifts. But the more hours you work, the faster you gain experience and earn more.
What skills help the most?
Effective communication, fast thinking, and being kind to customers. These help you close a sale and build your career in the automotive industry.
