Application Requirements for Vehicle Transporter License
Purpose
The purpose of this page is to assist the prospective transporter by describing the requirements to obtain a vehicle transporter license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What Is A Transporter?
A "transporter" is a person engaged in the business of moving any owned or lawfully possessed vehicle by lawful methods over the highways for the purpose of delivery of such vehicles to dealers, sales agents of a manufacturer, purchasers, or to a new location as requested by the owner.
The term "transporter" does not include a person engaged in the business of operating a tow car. CVC Section 645.
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 Persons previously working under a license issued by DMV, which was revoked or suspended for cause may also be denied a license. 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 Transporter’s License CVC Section 11700 et seq.
Every applicant for a vehicle transporter’s license must:
- File an application with the department.
- Pay all required fees. CVC Section 11701.
Click on the following links for the fees, forms, and additional information related to the Vehicle Transporter License.
Vehicle Transporter License application fees.
Vehicle Transporter License application forms.
Vehicle Transporter License renewal fees.
Fees to change an existing Vehicle Transporter License.
Form(s) to change an existing Vehicle Transporter License.
Additional Items
The following items may be required by other agencies:
A Permit from the Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) for movement of over wide objects.
- State transporters are also licensed by Public Utilities Commission
- Interstate transporters are also licensed by U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission.
"Place of Business" Inspection. After you have arranged for an appointment with an Occupational Licensing Inspector he/she will conduct an inspection to ensure:
- The principal place of business, is the location of record with the department.
- If the mailing address of the licensee is not at the actual principal place of business, such mailing address shall be reflected in the application along with the address of the principal place of business and thereafter remain current with the department.
- If the principal place of business is not located in this state, the department may require such supporting documentary proof as it deems necessary to determine the applicant's status as an actual transporter pursuant to Vehicle Code Section 320. CCR, Title 13, Section 295.00 (a) (b) (c)
Note: Place of business inspection is within California only.