Distributor Licensing Information

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Distributor Licensing Information

Vehicle Disrtributor Handbook (PDF)

See Occupational Licensure Product List (PDF) for product types that currently reequire and Occupational License.

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Distributor Original License Forms and Fees

Forms

An application for a vehicle distributor license consists of the following forms:

• OL 12, Application for Original Occupational License, Part C
• OL 21A, Original Application for Occupational License, Part A
• OL 29, Application for Occupational License Personal History Questionnaire, Part B (Required for each person listed under ownership on form OL 12.)
• ADM 1316, Fingerprint Card (out-of-state applicants only) Fingerprint cards may be obtained by calling Occupational Licensing at (916)229-3126 or your local Inspector.
• DMV 8016, Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt) (More Information about Live Scan) (Required for each person completing form OL 29.)

The following documents are also required as part of the application package:

1. Brochure or drawing of the manufactured product (include name of product and the following).
• A 17-digit VIN or VIN sample configuration from the Society of Automotive Engineers. If this is a new product to California, provide a copy of the assignment of ID and testing approval or waiver from the National Highway Transportation Association.
• A copy of the California Air Resources Executive Order (required for engine powered products).
2. List of authorized or enfranchised dealers; enfranchised auto/commercial and motorcycle dealers are appointed on Form OL 124, Certificate of Proposed Franchise . All other authorizations must be on company letterhead and signed by a person listed in the application documents.
3. Letter of appointment from manufacturer.
4. Photograph(s) of business location, refer to Photograph Procedures.
5. If your firm is incorporated in a state other than California, provide:
• Articles of incorporation.
• Certification from incorporating state's Secretary of State the corporation is in good standing.
Optional
List of authorized representatives. All representatives must apply for a license at a local DMV office and submit:
• OL 16, Application for Occupational License
• DMV 8016, Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt)
• $51.0

Additional Items

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

• Brochure or drawing of the manufactured product (include the name)
• Copy of 17 digit Vehicle Identification Number
• Copy of resale license (if appropriate)
• Copy of Board of Equalization Permit.

Provide a copy of the following documents if firm is incorporated in state other than California

• Articles of incorporation
• Certification from incorporating state's Secretary of State that the corporation is in good standing
• Photo of the distributing facility

"Place of Business" Inspection. After you have arranged an appointment with an Occupational Licensing Inspector he or she will:

• Inspect the place of business where the distributor conducts business
• Inspect all books and records pertinent to the business. CVC Section 320 (a), CVC Section 1670, and CVC Section 1671.

Note: Place of business inspection is within California only.

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Original Licensing Fees

The fees to become a licensed vehicle distributor are:

• $100 Non-refundable application fee
• $1 Family Support Program fee
• $50 For each branch location (if applicable)
• $57 For each auto plate and $59 for each motorcycle plate (plus county fees, if applicable).

The Family Support Program fee is paid on original, renewal, and reinstatement applications. 

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Distributor Licensing Renewal Forms and Fees

Forms

• OL 45, Renewal Application

Fees

• $1 Family Support Program fee
• $86  Renewal application fee
• $56 for each auto plate and $58 for each motorcyle plate (plus county fees, if applicable)

The Family Support Program fee is paid on original, renewal, and reinstatement applications 

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Distributor License Modification Forms and Fees

Forms

• OL 15 Corporate Office and/or Director Change
• OL 15A Limited Liability Company Member and/or Manager Change
• OL 21 Application for Modification to Occupational License
• OL 22 Application for Additional Special Plates, Replacement Special Plates, Sticker Only, and Duplicate Registration Card.
• OL 247 Lost, Stolen or Surrendered Plates
• DMV 8016 Live Scan Fingerprint Clearance receipt (required for officer change)

Fees

• $50  Name change
• $50  Address change
• $50  Add a branch
• $70  Officer Change

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Distributor Licensing Authority

California Vehicle Code. Sections 29, 296, 297, 320 (a), 3000 et seq., and 11700 et seq. The California Vehicle Code is available for purchase from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

California Code of Regulations. Title 13, Chapter 1.

Government Code. Section 6157 (a) - (d).

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Application Questions and Submission Information

Please refer to the Distributor Handbook.

 

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