Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual

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Section 3 of 38

Chapter 2: General Information – Licensees

2.035 Distributor

Chapter 2 General Information — Licensees

2.035 Distributor (VC §296)

A distributor is any person, other than a manufacturer, who:

  • Sells or distributes new vehicles, off-highway vehicles, motorcycles, and trailers subject to registration or identification under the Vehicle Code to dealers in this state.
  • Maintains representatives for the purpose of contacting dealers/prospective dealers in this state.

A distributor must obtain a Letter of Appointment from a California-licensed manufacturer for the product(s) being distributed.