Becoming an Authorized Dealer: Requirements & What’s Changed

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Becoming an Authorized Dealer is one of the most effective ways to grow a business without starting from scratch. For entrepreneurs and sales professionals looking to sell trusted brands, access established infrastructure, and scale faster, this model continues to be a smart and proven path.

RS&I has supported independent dealers for decades, helping business owners enter competitive markets with pinpoint focus, credibility, and support. In fact, we first outlined the fundamentals of becoming an Authorized Dealer back in 2015.While the core requirements remain relevant, the opportunity has expanded significantly since then.

If you’re researching how to become an Authorized Dealer today, here’s what you need to know before getting started.

What Does It Mean to Be an Authorized Dealer or Retailer? 

An Authorized Dealer, sometimes referred to as an Authorized Retailer, is an independent business that is approved to sell products or services on behalf of major national brands. Unlike resellers or affiliates, authorized retailers work directly within official partner programs and receive access to:

• Approved products and services
• Sales tools and training
• Brand credibility and recognition
• Structured onboarding and support

At RS&I, Authorized Dealers sell in high-demand industries such as wireless, fiber internet, home security, satellite TV, and smart home solutions.

Why the Authorized Dealer Model IsStill a Smart Move 

The Authorized Dealer model continues to grow because it removes many of the barriers that slow down traditional startups.

When you become an Authorized Dealer, you avoid:

• Building brand trust from zero
• Negotiating direct contracts with large providers
• Developing products or services yourself

Instead, you focus on what matters most: sales, customer relationships, and growth.

Demand for telecom, connectivity, and home services has only increased, making this one of the most stable and scalable business opportunities available today.

Original Requirements for Becoming an Authorized Retailer

In our original 2015 article, What Are the Requirements to Become an Authorized Retailer, we covered the foundational expectations for approval. Those fundamentals still apply and include:

• A registered business entity or clear plan to establish one
• Valid government-issued identification
• Background verification
• A basic business plan outlining sales approach and goals
• Startup capital to support early operations

You can review the original breakdown here: Authorized Retailer Requirements

These requirements are designed to protect both the brands being represented and the long-term success of the retailer.

What’s Changed Since 2015? 

While the requirements for becoming an Authorized Dealer haven’t disappeared, the process and opportunities have evolved.

Lower Barriers to Entry 

You no longer need a physical storefront to succeed. Many Authorized Dealers now operate through:

• Door-to-door sales
• Event marketing
• Digital advertising
• Inside sales or call centers

This flexibility allows new retailers to start lean and scale strategically.

More Product Opportunities

Authorized Dealers with RS&I can sell across multiple categories instead of being locked into a single product line. This allows diversification, higher earning potential, and better customer retention.

Faster Approval and Onboarding

With the right documentation in place, the process of becoming an Authorized Dealer can move quickly. Dedicated support teams help guide new partners through setup, training, and launch.

What RS&I Looks for in Authorized Dealer Partners 

Becoming an Authorized Dealer isn’t just about paperwork. RS&I looks for partners who are:

• Committed to ethical sales practices
• Motivated to grow a real business
• Open to coaching and support
• Focused on long-term success, not short-term wins

This ensures that retailers, customers, and brand partners all benefit from the relationship.

Is Becoming an Authorized Retailer Right for You? 

If you are looking to:

• Start a business with proven demand
• Expand your current sales operation
• Add new revenue streams
• Work with nationally recognized brands

Then becoming an Authorized Dealer may be the right next step.

The best place to start is understanding the requirements, preparing your business foundation, and connecting with a partner who supports growth rather than just approval.

Next Steps 

If you’re serious about becoming an Authorized Dealer, review the original requirements article, prepare your business information, and explore whether RS&I is the right fit for your goals.

This model has worked for thousands of independent retailers, and with today’s demand, the opportunity is stronger than ever.