Application Requirements for Vehicle Manufacturer License
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Purpose
The purpose of this page is to assist the prospective manufacturer by describing the requirements to obtain a vehicle manufacturer license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What Is a Vehicle Manufacturer?
A "vehicle manufacturer " is any person who produces from raw materials or new basic components a vehicle of a type subject to registration under the California Vehicle Code or off highway motorcycles subject to identification under the California Vehicle Code or who permanently alters new commercial vehicles by conversion into housecars. CVC Section 672 and CVC Section 11700 et seq.
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by DMV, which was revoked or suspended for cause may also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 Manufacturer's License
CVC Section 11700 et seq.
Every applicant for a vehicle manufacturer’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 and distributors.
Click on the following links for the fees, forms and additional information regarding the Vehicle Manufacturer's License.
Vehicle Manufacturer Handbook (PDF)
Vehicle
Manufacturer License application fees
CVC Section 11704(b) and CCR,
Title 13, Section 252.20(k)
Vehicle Manufacturer License application forms
Vehicle Manufacturer License renewal fees
Fees to change an existing Vehicle Manufacturer License
Form(s) to change an existing Vehicle Manufacturer 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)
- 17 digit VIN number.
- List of authorized representatives
- List of enfranchised dealers. CCR Section 252.20(h)
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 main business office (place of business) where the manufacturer conducts business
- Inspect all books and records pertinent to the business. CVC Section 320 (a), CVC Section 672 (c), and CCR, Title 13, Sections 290.00 and 290.02.
Note: Place of business inspection is within California only.
Vehicle Representative
A manufacture may also have a representative. CCR Title 13, Section 252.20 (h)