How to Apply for a Vehicle Lessor-Retailer License

To apply for your license, submit the following:

• Application for Original Occupational License, Part C (OL 12).
• Original Application for Occupational License, Part A (OL 21A).
• Surety Bond of Motorcycle Dealer, Motorcycle Lessor-Retailer, or Wholesale-Only Dealer (Less Than 25 Vehicles per Year) (OL 25B) or
  Lessor-Retailer Surety Bond (OL 25C) or Deposit Agreement and Assignment (OL 25E).
• Application for Occupational License Personal History Questionnaire, Business Licensing Unit (OL 29B) for each person listed under ownership on form OL 12.
• Live scan fingerprint and Request for Live Scan Clearance (DMV 8016) for each person completing form OL 29B.
• Fingerprint card (ADM 1316) (out-of-state applicants only). Fingerprint cards may be obtained by calling Occupational Licensing (OL) at (916) 229-3126 or from a DMV inspector office.
• Appointment of Director as Agent for Service of Process (ADM 9050).
• Photographs of the business location (refer to OL photography requirements).
• Copy of articles of incorporation, corporate minutes, or other document filed with the Secretary of State, which identifies the officers, shareholders, and managers with 10 percent or more interest in the business (corporation, limited liability company, or limited liability partnership owned businesses only).
• Copy of Board of Equalization resale permit (enables you to collect sales tax). For more information, view your California seller’s permit.
• Copy of your fictitious name statement.

Once you have completed all mandatory forms and collected all required documents, call your local OL Inspections office to set an appointment to submit your paperwork and fees.

After DMV processes your application, you’ll receive an email instructing you to schedule an inspection of your business location. Once you receive that email, you’ll need to create a DMV online account and select a time slot for an inspection. The email you receive will provide the information you need to get started.

At the inspection, an OL inspector will:

• Inspect the main business office where you conduct business, whether or not retail sales are made from this location (business inspection within California only).
• Inspect all books and records pertinent to the business (California Vehicle Code (CVC) §11601(a), (c)).

You will also need to undergo a background investigation.

Fees

• $175 nonrefundable application fee
• $1 family support program
• $70 for each branch location (if applicable)

How to Renew a Vehicle Lessor-Retailer License

To renew your license, complete a Renewal Application (OL 45). Mail your application and fees to the address on the form.

Fees

• $125 renewal application fee
• $1 family support program
• $70 for each branch location (if applicable)

How to Modify a Vehicle Lessor-Retailer License

To modify an existing license, complete and submit the relevant form(s): 

• Ownership changes
• All other changes

To avoid processing delays, submit your modification at your local OL inspector office.

Fees

• $70 name change fee
• $70 address change fee
• $70 add a branch fee
• $70 officer change fee