You need a vehicle manufacturer license if you produce vehicles or off-highway motorcycles subject to registration or identification under the California Vehicle Code (CVC), or if you permanently alter commercial vehicles into housecars.
See the full list of product types that currently require occupational license.
How to Apply for a Vehicle Manufacturer License
Apply for your license and pay your fees online.
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).
- Application for Occupational License Personal History Questionnaire, Business Licensing Unit (OL 29B) for each person listed under ownership on form OL 12.
- Corporate Declaration/Limited Company Declaration (OL 107) (required for corporation, limited liability company or limited liability partnership).
- 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.
- ADM must be accompanied by BCII 9004 – Request for Exemption from Mandatory Electronic Fingerprint Submission (out-of-state applicants only).
- 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 identification (ID) and testing approval or waiver from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- A copy of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) executive order (required for engine powered products).
- List of authorized representatives. All representatives must apply for a license using an Application for Representative License (OL 16R) and pay a $51 licensing fee.
- List of authorized or enfranchised dealers. Enfranchised auto, commercial, and motorcycle dealers are appointed using a Certificate of Proposed Franchise (OL 124). All other authorizations must be on company letterhead and signed by a person listed in the application documents.
- Photographs of the business location (refer to OL photography requirements).
- If your firm is incorporated in a state other than California, provide:
- Articles of incorporation.
- Certification from incorporating state’s Secretary of State that the corporation is in good standing.
Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, mail your application materials and fees to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing Branch
PO Box 932342 MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420
Fees
- $100 nonrefundable application fee
- $1 family support program
- $50 for each branch location (if applicable)
- $92 for each auto plate (plus county fees, if applicable)
- $94 for each motorcycle plate (plus county fees, if applicable)
- $42 for each person submitting ADM 1316, fingerprint card (out-of-state applicants only)
Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin
Every vehicle must come with a Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin (MCO/MSO). This may be prepared at a factory, an assembly plant, or a business authorized by the manufacturer. All MCO/MSOs, except those for off-road equipment, should be produced in an identical format, and must include:
- The manufacturer’s name and address.
- The make, identification number, body type, year model, and vehicle series or model name.
- The date and to whom ownership was transferred from the manufacturer and the signature of the manufacturer’s agent (a signature stamp is acceptable).
For more information about obtaining MCO or MSO documents, visit the Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration websites.
How to Renew a Vehicle Manufacturer License
Renew your license and pay your fees online.
To renew your license, complete a Renewal Application (OL 45). Mail your application and fees to the address on the form.
Fees
- $85 renewal application fee
- $1 family support program
- $92 for each auto plate (plus county fees, if applicable)
- $94 for each motorcycle plate (plus county fees, if applicable)
- $85 renewal fee for each branch location (if applicable)
How to Modify a Vehicle Manufacturer License
Modify your license and pay your fees online.
To modify an existing license, complete and submit the relevant form(s):
Mail your completed form and fees to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing Section
PO Box 932342 MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420
Fees
- $50 name change fee
- $50 address change fee
- $50 add a branch fee
- $70 officer change fee
Vehicle Manufacturer Licensing Authority
California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§29, 320 (a), 389, 672, 3000 et seq., and 11700 et seq. The CVC is available for purchase from DMV.
California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Chapter 1.
California Government Code §6157 (a) – (d).
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Questions?
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Vehicle Manufacturer Program Handbook
The Vehicle Manufacturer Program Handbook contains helpful information about applying for a license, vehicle manufacturer requirements, and more.
Occupational Licensing
Learn more about occupational licensing and find helpful resources.