Application Requirements for Vehicle Manufacturer License

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Vehicle Manufacturer Handbook (PDF)

See Occupational Licensure Product List (PDF) for product types that currently require an Occupational License.


Manufacturer License Forms and Fees

The following documents are also required as part of the application package:

  1. Brochure or drawing of the manufactured product (include name).
  2. List of enfranchised dealers. Enfranchised auto/commercial and motorcycle dealers are appointed on Form OL 124, Certificate of Proposed Franchise . All other authorizations must be on company letterhead and signed by a person listed in the application documents.
  3. List of authorized representatives. All representatives must apply for a license at a local DMV office and submit:
  4. Photo of the manufacturing facility.
  5. Provide a 17-digit VIN number or VIN sample configuration from the Society of Automotive Engineers. If this is a new product to California, provide a copy of the assignment of ID and testing approval or waiver from the National Highway Transportation Association. This may be required for auto/commercial and motorcycle classes.
  6. A copy of the California Air Resources Board Executive Order (required for engine powered products).
  7. If your firm is incorporated in a state other than California, provide:
    • Articles of incorporation.
    • Certification from incorporating state's Secretary of State the corporation is in good standing.

Additional Items

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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.

Original Application Fees

  • $100 Non-refundable application fee
  • $1 Family Support Program fee
  • $50 For each branch location (if applicable)
  • $70 For each auto plate and $72 for each motorcycle plate (plus county fees, if applicable).

The Family Support Program fee is paid on original, renewal, and reinstatement applications.

Vehicle Representative

A manufacture may also have a representative. CCR Title 13, Section 252.20 (h) 

Manufacturer License Renewal Forms and Fees

Form

Fees

  • $1 Family Support Program fee
  • $85  Renewal application fee
  • $69 for each auto plate and $71 for each motorcyle plate (plus county fees, if applicable)
  • $50  Renewal of branch location (each location)

The Family Support Program fee is paid on original, renewal, and reinstatement applications. 

Manufacturer License Modification Forms and Fees

Forms

Fees

  • $50  Name change
  • $50  Address change
  • $50  Add a branch
  • $70  Officer Change

Vehicle Manufacturer Licensing Authority

California Vehicle Code. Sections 29, 320 (a), 389, 672, 3000 et seq., and 11700 et seq. The California Vehicle Code is available for purchase from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

California Code of Regulations.  Title 13, Chapter 1.

Government Code.  Section 6157 (a) - (d).

 

Application Questions and Submission Information

Pleae refer to the Manufacturer Handbook

 

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