Before the issuance of a motor vehicle dealer license, the applicant must provide proof to the department of a continuous policy of liability insurance for the business operation of the applicant which includes general, business automobile, and sales, repair, or service operations liability as is appropriate to the business operation. The insurance company that issued the policy must notify the department of any cancellation, suspension, or revocation of the coverage. Any motor vehicle dealer who fails to maintain the insurance coverage required by this section shall return the dealer license and dealer number plates to the department on or before the effective date of the cancellation, suspension, or revocation. Failure to return the dealer license or dealer number plates results in automatic revocation by operation of law. The department may order the superintendent to take possession of any dealer license or dealer number plates not returned to the department as required in this section. The department shall reinstate the dealer license and dealer number plates only when proof of insurance coverage is received.