Wholesale, Retail & Broker

DMV Vehicle Dealer License Application Instructions & Forms (California)

California DMV Vehicle Dealer License Application

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Dealer 101® is approved by the DMV and offers this step-by-step guide to help you complete your DMV Used or New Vehicle Dealer License Application to get licensed in California quickly and easily. The guide includes Wholesale, Retail, or Auto Broker Endorsement application instructions.

Avoiding common mistakes ensures your application is accepted by the DMV the first time.

Why Choose Dealer 101®?

  • DMV-Approved Expertise: As a DMV-approved course provider, Dealer 101® brings years of experience to guide you through the Dealer License application process. You can be confident you’re getting the right help from knowledgeable experts.
  • Avoid Costly Delays: Errors or forgotten steps can cause significant delays in your application approval. Our guide helps you avoid these common pitfalls, ensuring your application is accurate and complete the first time.
  • A Proven Step-by-Step Guide: This course mirrors the DMV Occupational Licensing Application, with each section laid out in the same order. We provide detailed screenshots and instructions on confidently completing your application.

Used & New Vehicle Dealer License Application Checklist 

The checklist covers all the steps you need to apply for a California DMV Vehicle Dealer License. Each section below mirrors the DMV’s application, guiding you through the process.

Start Your Application

In this section, you’ll get detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to set up your online California DMV OL account. We’ll guide you in choosing the right DMV vehicle dealer license, ensuring you start on the right path and avoid restarting the process. Additionally, you’ll be introduced to the DMV’s official application checklist, with clear visuals to help you navigate each section easily, beginning with your personal information.

1. Setup Your DMV Account

2. Start a New Application

3. Complete the Application Checklist

Personal Information

In this section, you’ll learn how to complete the Live Scan fingerprinting process for your California dealer license and how to upload your results into the DMV system. Additionally, we’ll explain the Personal History Questionnaire, helping ensure everything is completed correctly.

4. Live Scan / Fingerprint

5. Personal History Questionnaire

License Information

In this section, you’ll learn how to enter the details for your main office, whether a home or commercial location and the basic bank information required for your California dealer license application. We’ll also guide you through ordering auto, trailer, and motorcycle dealer plates you can use to drive your inventory without additional costs. Additionally, we cover how to provide accurate information about your location to ensure all essential details are included.

6. Main Office and Financial Institution

7. Plate Request

8. Property Information

Required Documents

This section guides you through obtaining and submitting all the necessary California DMV dealer license application documents. You’ll learn how to acquire your Surety Bond and CDTFA Sellers Permit, both required as part of your application. We also cover the Fictitious Name Statement and, if needed, how to file and submit one. We provide guidelines for taking and submitting photographs of your dealership. Additionally, we explain how to complete the ADM 9050 form.

9. Surety Bond

10. CDTFA Sellers Permit

11. Fictitious Name Statement

12. Photographs of Business

13. ADM 9050 Appointment of Director as Agent for Service Process

Required Actions

The DMV requires the Used and New Vehicle Dealer ”Pre-license” Education Program to obtain your wholesale, retail, or broker endorsement.  Our DMV-approved Pre-license course simplifies everything, helping you get your license faster. Our customers pass the 40-question test, achieving a 100% pass rate.

14. Dealer Education Course

15. Schedule and Take Examination

Pending Results

This section explains what to expect during the waiting period after submitting your Live Scan results and how to track the progress of your application.

16. Live Scan Results

Holds

17. Application Holds

This section explains what the application holds and the issues that can delay processing your dealer license application, such as missing documents or incomplete information. You’ll learn how to quickly identify and resolve these holds to keep your licensing process on track.

FAQ

In California, it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to schedule the final inspection after submitting your application and paperwork. During this inspection, a DMV representative will verify that you have access to the location listed in your application. After the inspection, they will hand you your dealer license in person. If there are any issues, the DMV will work with you to address them, ensuring the process moves forward smoothly.