NJ Follows NY’s Lead on Appointment-Only Auto Sales

The announcement yesterday by New Jersey Gov. Murphy to allow for onsite vehicle sales in New Jersey mirrors a change made by New York two weeks ago.    

New Jersey dealers will reopen for in-person sales today by appointment only. Dealers there must install shield guards, limit occupancy to 50%, arrange contactless payment mechanisms, and reserve special hours for the elderly and other vulnerable populations. The order allows test drives to resume, provided that the customer is alone or a dealership employee can socially distance inside the automobile. 

On May 6th, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration revised its guidance  after GNYADA and the State’s other dealer associations presented a plan to the State to restart on-site sales. 

Since the COVID-19 crisis began, GNYADA has worked with Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration to ensure dealerships remain open, and consumers have access to vehicle inventories. GNYADA has also worked to develop comprehensive social distancing and disinfection protocols. 

At this time, GNYADA continues to work with the Governor’s office to resume normal dealership operations for the Metro NY region. The Association will update dealers on any new guidance from the State as it becomes available.

Note: GNYADA continues to field many calls from our members regarding the protocols that need to be met and to follow. One question that comes up very often is whether dealers are allowed to have sales staff working out of the dealership during the latest guidance from the State.  

The answer is yes.

Sales personnel who are essential for scheduling appointments and meeting with consumers at the dealership are permitted to be on the premises to meet with customers. Also, all other personnel such as F&I and billing staff that are required for your sales operation, are permitted to work at the dealership as long everyone follows required safety protocols such as social distancing and wearing face masks at all times.