You need a vehicle distributor license if you sell or distribute new vehicles to California dealers or you maintain representatives who contact dealers or prospective California dealers, and you’re not a vehicle manufacturer. You need a license if you sell or distribute:

• New vehicles
• New trailers
• New off-highway motorcycles
• New all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

See the full list of product types that currently require an occupational license.

How to Apply for a Vehicle Distributor License

All occupational license applicants must create an online account and apply online – how-to videos and a quick start guide are available. If you experience technical issues or get locked out of your account, see technical support.

When applying, have the following information and supporting documents ready to upload:

• Business structure, ownership, property, and financial information.
• Personal identifying information, employment, education, and conviction history.
• List of authorized representatives, if applicable. All representatives must apply for a license and pay a licensing fee.
• Completed Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt) (DMV 8016) (PDF) for each person listed as owner (original application only). Out-of-state applicants must mail a completed Fingerprint Card (OL 1316). Contact DMV at (800) 777-0133 to request an OL 1316.
• Brochure or drawing of the manufactured product (include product name).
• A 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) 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 Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• List of authorized or enfranchised dealers must be on company letterhead and signed by a person listed in the application documents.
• Letter of appointment from manufacturer.
• Secretary of State (SOS) Statement of Information (Corporation, Limited Liability Company, Partnership/Limited Partnership) document.
• If your firm is incorporated in a state other than California, provide:
  • Articles of incorporation.
  • Certification from incorporating state’s SOS that the corporation is in good standing.
• If “doing business as”, a copy of the fictious name statement is required.
• Photographs of the business location (refer to OL photography requirements).

Application and fees are valid for one year from submission date. If the application is not completed within the year, new application and fees will be required.

Fees: Distributor License