Dentsmart Franchise FDD, Costs & Fees (2025)

Dentsmart is an automotive service franchise specializing in paintless dent repair, providing fast, cost-effective solutions for hail damage and minor dents.

Founded in 2001 in Pekin, Illinois, DentSmart has emerged as a leading franchise in the automotive repair industry, specializing in paintless dent repair (PDR). With its headquarters still based in Pekin, the company has expanded its presence across the United States, offering a streamlined and eco-friendly alternative to traditional auto bodywork.

DentSmart began franchising shortly after its inception, enabling entrepreneurs to deliver top-tier PDR services nationwide. DentSmart's services focus on non-invasive dent repair techniques that preserve the original factory finish of vehicles, providing a cost-effective solution for customers.

With over 600 franchises operating across the United States, DentSmart continues to set the standard in the PDR industry. The company's commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a trusted name in automotive repair.

Initial investment

Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee $25,000
Training Expenses $2,500 - $3,000
Security and Utility Deposits and Other Costs Associated with Establishing Your Office $0 – $4,500
Office Equipment, Fixtures, Leasehold Improvements, Whether Purchased or Leased $1,000
Tools $10,000
Business Licenses and Other Licenses $1,500 – $2,500
Software and Hardware $2,000 – $3,000
Insurance $2,500 – $3,000
Grand Opening Advertising and Marketing $2,000
Other Professional Fees $3,500 – $5,500
Technician Training $9,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months $20,000 - $40,000
Total $79,100 – $110,500
Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee $25,000
Training Expenses $2,500 - $3,000
Security and Utility Deposits and Other Costs Associated with Establishing Your Office $0 – $4,500
Office Equipment, Fixtures, Leasehold Improvements, Whether Purchased or Leased $1,000
Tools $10,000
Business Licenses and Other Licenses $1,500 – $2,500
Software and Hardware $2,000 – $3,000
Insurance $2,500 – $3,000
Grand Opening Advertising and Marketing $2,000
Other Professional Fees $3,500 – $5,500
Technician Training $9,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months $20,000 - $40,000
Total $79,100 – $110,500

Franchise Disclosure Document

Number of units

Training

Dentsmart LLC provides a structured training program to prepare franchisees for successful business operations. The key programs are as follows:

  1. Initial Owner/Manager Training
    This program is included in the franchise fee and must be attended by the franchise owner and, if applicable, the initial manager. It takes place over one to two weeks at Dentsmart’s headquarters in Illinois and covers technical dent repair procedures, customer service protocols, and business operations.
  2. Technician Training
    Separate from the owner’s training, this program focuses specifically on training technicians in paint-free dent repair techniques. The cost is $9,000, and it includes both hands-on practice and theoretical instruction to ensure high service standards.
  3. Ongoing Training and Updates
    Dentsmart may provide continuous training through updates, new service rollouts, or additional skill development sessions. This ensures that franchisees and their staff remain current with the latest methods and industry advancements.

Territory Protection

Dentsmart LLC provides each franchisee with a designated territory, which is established before the business begins operation. The franchisor defines this territory in the Franchise Agreement to give the franchisee exclusive rights to operate within that specific area.

This ensures that other franchisees will not be allowed to open a Dentsmart business within the same designated territory. However, Dentsmart retains certain rights that limit complete exclusivity.

The franchisor may advertise the brand nationally or regionally, and while these promotions can include the franchisee’s area, they do not constitute direct competition. Additionally, Dentsmart maintains the right to assign additional technicians if needed, ensuring that market demand is met even within an exclusive territory.

Competitors

Below are some of

Dentsmart

key competitors in the

Auto Repair

sector.

Franchise
Franchisees
Initial fee
Total investment
Revenue
Upgrade
Gross Profit
Upgrade
EBITDA
Upgrade

13

New
+
-13%
-13%

$25,000

$79,000

$111,000

n.a.

$0

$xxx,xxx

n.a.

xx%

n.a.

n.a.

xx%

n.a.

Competitors

Purrfect Auto Service

Purrfect Auto Service is an automotive-service franchise offering full repair, maintenance, fast-lube and smog services, serving vehicle owners seeking trustworthy care, and known for ethical operations, returning parts to clients, and consistent franchisee support.

Franchisees

?

18
+
-5%
-5%
Investment

?

$149,000 - $378,000

Brake Masters

Brake Masters is an automotive repair franchise providing services including brake repair, oil changes, and general vehicle maintenance. Known for its ASE-certified technicians, the franchise emphasizes customer service and quality workmanship.

Franchisees

?

27
+
0%
0%
Investment

?

$1,494,000 - $2,913,000

Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists

Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists is an automotive franchise offering professional wheel repair and refinishing services, including curb rash removal, color changes, and structural repairs.

Franchisees

?

78
+
-11%
-11%
Investment

?

$99,000 - $639,000

Dentsmart

Dentsmart is an automotive service franchise specializing in paintless dent repair, providing fast, cost-effective solutions for hail damage and minor dents.

Franchisees

?

13
+
-13%
-13%
Investment

?

$79,000 - $111,000

ProColor Collision

ProColor Collision specializes in auto body repair and paint services, providing high-quality collision repair and refinishing to restore vehicles to their pre-accident condition.

Franchisees

?

30
+
200%
200%
Investment

?

$317,000 - $3,130,000

Tuffy Tire and Auto Service

Automotive repair and maintenance franchise offering a range of services, including tire sales, oil changes, and brake repair, providing trustworthy and reliable automotive care.

Franchisees

?

103
+
-28%
-28%
Investment

?

$229,000 - $729,000