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Application Requirements for Dismantler License

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Purpose

The purpose of this page is to assist the prospective dismantler by describing the requirements to obtain a vehicle dismantler license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).


What is a Dismantler?

A "dismantler" is engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in vehicles of a type required to be registered under this code, including non-repairable vehicles, for the purpose of dismantling the vehicles, who buys or sells the integral parts and component materials thereof, in whole or in part, or deals in used motor vehicle parts. This section does not apply to the occasional and incidental dismantling of vehicles by dealers who have secured dealers plates from the department for the current year whose principal business is buying and selling new and used vehicles, or by owners who desire to dismantle not more than three personal vehicles within any 12 month period. (CVC) Section 220 and (CVC) Section 11500 et seq.

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Background Investigation

A background investigation is conducted on all applicants. Failure to disclose convictions or providing incorrect information on the application may result in the refusal or denial of your license. The department may refuse to issue a license to any applicant who has been convicted of a crime or committed any act or engaged in any conduct involving moral turpitude which is substantially related to the qualifications or duties of the licensed activity. A conviction based on plea of nolo contendere is a conviction within the meaning of this section. Persons previously working under a license issued by DMV, which was revoked or suspended for cause may also be denied a license. CVC Section 11302 In addition, the California Code of Regulations (CCR) and other sections of the California Vehicle Code provides guidelines used by the department in determining whether a license should be issued. CCR, Title 13, Chapter 1.

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Requirements

The requirements for a Vehicle Dismantler's License are identified in CVC Section 11500 et seq. and CCR, Title 13, Section 304.00 et seq.

Every applicant for a vehicle dismantler's license must:

  • File an application with the department.
  • Pay all required fees.
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Click on the following links for the forms and fees related to the Dismantler's license

Dismantler Handbook (PDF).

Dismantler license exclusions.

Dismantler license application fees.

Dismantler license application forms.

Dismantler license renewal fees,

Fees to change an existing Dismantler's license.

Form(s) to change and existing Dismantler's license.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Licensing Authority

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Additional Items

The following items are also needed as part of the application package:

  • Provide a copy of the Board of Equalization Resale Permit. CVC Section 11504 (a)(1)
  • Provide a copy of the identification number issued by the California Environmental Protection Agency. CVC Section 11504 (a)(2)
  • Provide a statement indicating the applicant has filed an application for a storm water permit or is not required to obtain a storm water permit. CVC Section 11504 (a)(3)
  • Provide a statement indicating that the applicant has either filed a hazardous materials business plan or is not required to file that plan. CVC Section 11504 (a)(4)
  • Provide a copy of the tax identification number assigned by the Franchise Tax Board. CVC Section 11504 (a)(5)
  • Provide a copy of City and/or County Business License.
  • Provide proof business location(s) meets zoning requirements.
  • Provide a letter of authorization from manufacturer/distributor (for selling new and remanufactured vehicles).

After you have arranged an appointment with an Occupational Licensing Inspector he or she will conduct the following inspections:

  • "Established Place of Business" Inspection
  • Inspect the place of business where the dismantler conducts business.
  • Inspect all books and records pertinent to the business. CVC Section 320 (b), CVC Section 1670, CVC Section 1671 (a, and CVC Section 11513
  • Ensure the dismantling area is adjacent or in close proximity to the dismantler's office.nbsp;CCR, Title 13, Section 304.06
  • Ensuring that Streets and Highways Code, Section 747, is met. This section states that junkyards (including dismantlers) are prohibited from locating within 1,000 feet of the nearest edge of the right of way and visible from an interstate or primary highway if not in an area zoned for industrial purposes.
"Sign" Inspection
  • Sign or device shall provide information relating to the licensed entity by its exact firm name and indicate the nature of the dismantler's business (for example, "automobile dismantler", "automobile wrecker", etc.).
  • Every sign erected or posted, shall have an area of not less than thirty-two (32) square feet per side displayed and shall contain lettering of sufficient size (not less than six inches) to enable the sign to be read from a distance of at least 50 feet.
  • Sign must be permanent in nature, erected to the exterior of the office or the display area.  CVC Section 11514 et seq.,   andCCR, Title 13, Section 304.04
Advertising
  • No person required to be licensed as an automobile dismantler under the vehicle code shall advertise the services of an automobile dismantler without indicating in the advertisement the occupational license or permit number of the automobile dismantler as issued by the department.  CVC Section 11521
"Zoning" Inspection
  • Business location shall be zoned for the type of business you wish to conduct.
  • Contact your local or city zoning office to determine if the location is zoned for a dismantler business.
  • Local zoning authority approval should be filled out using Form OL 62 (which is submitted with your application package).