California DMV-Approved Dealer License Course

Complete the California DMV-Required 6-Hour Dealer Pre-Licensing Course Online

Complete the California DMV-required 6-hour Dealer Pre-Licensing Course to qualify for a used vehicle or wholesale dealer license.

Attend live online from anywhere in California or join an in-person class in Imperial Valley.

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DMV-Approved Provider #CCC0013
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6-Hour California Dealer Course
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Online Statewide
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In-Person Classes at Select Community College Locations

Next Available Online Class:

July 15 & July 16, 2026

Start Time: 12:00PM - 3:00PM

Location: Online Zoom Class

Ready to Start Your New Journey?

Getting your Dealer License is as easy as 1...2...3!

Take Pre-Licensing Education(This Course)

Enroll in our DMV-approved 6-hour pre-licensing dealer training course.

Prepare for the DMV Dealer Exam

Successfully complete and pass the exam.

Submit Your Dealer License Application

Submit your license application and await your inspection!

What are the benefits of having a California Dealer License?

A California Dealer License provides access to dealer‑only auctions, enables the purchase of vehicles at true wholesale pricing, and offers increased profit potential through expanded buying and selling opportunities.

Can I operate my dealership from home?

No, you do not need a commercial business location to obtain a dealer license. You can successfully acquire a dealer license and operate your business from the comfort of your HOME.

Is a background check required for the application?

Yes, a background check is required to acquire a California Dealer License. 

Who is required to take the California Dealer Pre-Licensing Course?

Anyone applying for a California used vehicle dealer license or a dealer-wholesale only license must complete a DMV-approved 6-hour Dealer Pre-Licensing Course before they can qualify for the dealer examination and continue with the licensing process.

Is this course approved by the California DMV?

Yes. Pro Dealer Academy is a California DMV-approved Vehicle Dealer Education Provider. After you successfully complete the required training, you will receive a Certificate of Completion that can be submitted as part of your California dealer license application.

How long is the California Dealer Pre-Licensing Course?

California law requires 6 hours of pre-licensing education for applicants seeking a used vehicle dealer or wholesale dealer license. The course covers dealer laws, licensing requirements, business operations, recordkeeping, and consumer protection topics required by the DMV.

Can I take the course online?

Yes. You may attend our live online class from anywhere in California with an internet connection. We also offer in-person classes in Imperial Valley for students who prefer classroom instruction.

Do you offer in-person classes?

Yes. In addition to our live online classes, we offer in-person training in Imperial Valley, making it convenient for students throughout Southern California who prefer face-to-face instruction.

What is the difference between a wholesale dealer license and a used vehicle dealer license?

A used vehicle dealer may buy, sell, and display vehicles for sale to the public and to other licensed dealers.

A dealer-wholesale only license allows you to buy and sell vehicles only to other licensed dealers. Wholesale dealers may not sell vehicles directly to retail consumers. The business location requirements also differ between these license types.

What happens after I complete the course?

After successfully completing the course, you'll receive your Certificate of Completion. You'll then continue the California dealer licensing process by completing your DMV Occupational Licensing application, submitting the required documents, completing fingerprinting (Live Scan), passing the dealer examination, and meeting all remaining licensing requirements.

What other requirements are needed to obtain a California dealer license?

In addition to completing the required education, applicants generally must:

  • Complete the DMV Occupational Licensing application
  • Submit fingerprints through Live Scan
  • Pass the California dealer examination
  • Obtain the required dealer bond
  • Meet business location requirements
  • Submit all required supporting documents and fees

Requirements vary depending on the type of dealer license being requested.

How long does it take to get a California dealer license?

The timeline varies depending on how quickly you complete the required steps and how long DMV processing takes. Most applicants finish their education first, then complete the application, examination, inspections (when applicable), and document review before their license is issued.

Can I apply for a California dealer license before taking the course?

The DMV requires applicants for used vehicle and wholesale dealer licenses to complete the required pre-licensing education before they can move forward with certain parts of the licensing process, including qualifying for the dealer examination. Many applicants choose to complete the course first because it helps them understand the application process and avoid delays.

How long does the application process take?

Most applicants receive their education certificate within approximately 2 weeks. After submitting all required documents to the DMV, the issuance of the Dealer License typically takes an additional 3–6 weeks, depending on DMV processing times.

What types of Vehicles can I sell with a Dealer License?

With a Dealer License, you can purchase vehicles from autos, to vessels, and Recreational Vehicles. 

What are the requirements of Dealer Plates?

Dealer Plates are issued to Licensed Dealers, that may be used for business or pleasure; available to place on any owned inventory. 

Do I need to pass the California DMV dealer examination?

Yes. Applicants for a California used vehicle dealer license or dealer-wholesale only license must pass the California DMV Occupational Licensing written examination. The exam covers dealer laws, regulations, licensing requirements, and business practices. Completing a DMV-approved 6-hour Dealer Pre-Licensing Course is required before you can qualify to take the examination.

What documents are required to apply for a California dealer license?

The required documents depend on your dealer license type, but most applicants will need to submit a completed DMV application, proof of Live Scan fingerprinting, business formation documents (if applicable), a seller's permit, a dealer surety bond, proof of an established business location, and any additional forms listed in the California DMV Used Dealer or Dealer-Wholesale Only Application Checklist.

What is a California dealer bond and why is it required?

A California dealer bond is a surety bond required by the DMV that helps protect consumers and the State of California if a licensed dealer violates dealer laws or regulations. Every licensed vehicle dealer must obtain the required bond amount before a dealer license can be issued. The bond is one of several mandatory requirements during the dealer licensing process.

Do I need a seller's permit before applying for a dealer license?

Yes. Most California vehicle dealers must obtain a California Seller's Permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) before completing the dealer licensing process. The seller's permit allows dealers to collect and report sales tax on taxable vehicle sales.

How long is my Dealer Pre-Licensing Course certificate valid?

Your California DMV Certificate of Completion remains valid while you continue through the dealer licensing process. However, because licensing requirements and application documents may change over time, applicants should complete their DMV application and examination as soon as practical after finishing the course.

Can I buy vehicles at dealer-only auctions with a wholesale dealer license?

Yes. A licensed California dealer-wholesale only dealer may purchase vehicles from dealer-only auctions and other licensed dealers. However, wholesale dealers may only resell vehicles to other licensed dealers and may not sell vehicles directly to retail consumers.

How often do I need to renew my California dealer license?

California vehicle dealer licenses must be renewed every two years to remain active. Dealers should submit their renewal application, fees, and any required continuing documentation before the license expiration date to avoid interruptions in business operations.

How do I enroll in a Pro Dealer Academy class?

 

Enrolling is simple. Visit our Course Registration page, choose your preferred class date, complete your registration, and submit your payment. You'll receive confirmation and instructions for attending your live online or in-person California DMV-approved Dealer Pre-Licensing Course. Once you successfully complete the course, you'll receive your Certificate of Completion to continue your California dealer licensing process.

Can I apply for a California dealer license if I have a criminal record?

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a California dealer license. As part of the application process, all applicants must complete a Live Scan fingerprint background check. The California DMV reviews each application individually and considers the nature of any convictions, their relationship to the licensed activity, and other relevant factors before making a licensing decision.