Application Requirements for Vehicle Distributor License
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Purpose
The purpose of this page is to assist the prospective distributor by describing the requirements to obtain a vehicle distributor license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What is a Vehicle Distributor?
A "distributor" is any person other than a manufacturer who sells or distributes new vehicles subject to registration under this code, or new off-highway motorcycles subject to identification under this code, to dealers in this state and maintains representatives for the purpose of contacting dealers or prospective dealers in this state. CVC Section 296
See Occupational Licensure Product List (PDF) for product types that currently require an Occupational License.
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. CVC Section 11703, 11703 (c), 11705 (a)(1). Persons previously working under a license issued by DMV, which was revoked or suspended for cause may also be denied a license. 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.
Requirements for a Vehicle Distributor's License CVC Section 11700 et seq.
Every applicant for a distributor’s license must:
- File an application with the department.
- Pay all required fees.
- Provide a list of enfranchised dealers.
- Provide a list of authorized representatives.
- Provide a letter of appointment from the manufacturer.
Use the following links for the fees, forms, and additional information related to the Distributor License.
Distributor license renewal fees.
Fees to change an existing Distributor license
Form(s) to change an existing Distributor license.
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.
Top of pageVehicle Representative
A distributor may also have a representative. CCR Title 13, Section 252.20(k)