For anyone in the business of fixing cars, understanding the legal requirements is as crucial as knowing your way around an engine. If you’re planning to do auto repair for compensation in California, you need to be registered as an Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) with the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). This registration isn’t just a formality; it’s the key to operating legally and building trust with your customers.
Starting January 1, 2024, a new law AB 1263 expands this requirement. Now, even if you don’t directly perform the repairs but get paid for referring or subletting auto repair services, you still need to be registered as an ARD. This ensures accountability and consumer protection across the board in the auto repair industry.
An ARD registration is the foundational license for various automotive services. Beyond the ARD, you might also need additional station licenses depending on the services you offer, such as Smog Check, STAR program, and Vehicle Safety Systems Inspections. Let’s break down the types of licenses you might need to legally do auto repair and related services in California.
Understanding Auto Repair Licenses and Applications
To legally do auto repair and offer related services, you might need one or more of the following licenses. Each license has a specific application and fee, and it’s important to understand which ones apply to your business.
| License Type | Description | Application | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) | Required for any business that, for compensation, repairs or diagnoses vehicle malfunctions, or receives payment for referred or sublet auto repair services. This is the basic license to do auto repair legally. | Online Application | $200.00 |
| Smog Check Station | For ARDs licensed to inspect, diagnose, and repair vehicles as part of the Smog Check Program. This license allows you to do auto repair related to emissions and smog issues. There are different types: test-and-repair, test-only, and repair-only. | Online Application | $100.00 |
| STAR Station Certification | An additional certification for licensed Smog Check stations (test-and-repair or test-only) meeting high-performance standards. STAR stations can inspect all vehicles, including directed vehicles (high polluters). Allows for specialized auto repair services under the STAR program and eligibility for Consumer Assistance Program. | Application (PDF) | No Fee |
| Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Station | For ARDs licensed to inspect vehicle safety systems. This license is essential if you do auto repair work that involves safety inspections, replacing the former brake and lamp licenses. | Online Application | $20.00 |
Note: Fees and application processes are subject to change. Always refer to the official BAR website for the most up-to-date information.
Preparing Your Application to Do Auto Repair
Before you start your application process to do auto repair legally, gather all necessary documents and information. Having everything ready will streamline the application and prevent delays. Here’s a checklist of what you might need:
General Business Information:
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Corporation/Limited Liability Company (LLC) number from the California Secretary of State (if applicable)
- Corporation Statement of Information (if applicable)
- Proof of Sale (if the application is due to a change of ownership)
- Educational certifications (for relevant licenses)
- Military documentation (if applicable, for expedited processing)
- Resettlement documentation (if applicable, for expedited processing for refugees, asylees, and SIV holders)
Permits and Licenses:
- Seller’s Permit
- City/County Business License
- Hazardous Waste Facility Permit (if applicable)
- Air Quality Management District Spray Booth Permit (if applicable)
For Domestic LLCs:
- Articles of Organization and Charter
- Statement of Information
- Operating Agreement
- Trust Agreement (if a trust is a member)
For Foreign LLCs:
- Application to Register and Charter (from the state of formation)
- Statement of Information
- Certificate Registration
- Operating Agreement
- Trust Agreement (if a trust is a member)
Expedited Processing and Potential License Denial
The BAR aims to support eligible applicants in obtaining their licenses efficiently. There are specific provisions for expedited processing and fee waivers for certain groups:
Assistance for U.S. Armed Forces and Families:
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouses or domestic partners may qualify for expedited licensure and license portability. Spouses or domestic partners of active duty members might also be eligible for an initial application fee waiver. Check the Resources for Military Personnel for detailed information and required documentation.
Support for Refugees, Asylees, and SIV Holders:
Refugees, asylees, and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders may also qualify for expedited licensure as per California Business and Professions Code section 135.4. For details, visit Expedited Licensure Process for Refugees, Asylees, and Holders of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs).
License Denial Considerations:
While BAR is dedicated to facilitating licensure, there are circumstances where an application might be denied, as required by California law. However, past criminal convictions or disciplinary actions don’t automatically disqualify an applicant. BAR reviews each case individually, considering various factors to determine eligibility. More information is available at Criminal Convictions, Formal Discipline, and Potential License Denial.
Requirements for License Holders and FAQs
Once you are licensed to do auto repair, it’s important to understand and adhere to the ongoing requirements to maintain your good standing. Familiarize yourself with the regulations and guidelines for licensed Automotive Repair Dealers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to register with BAR to do auto repair?
Yes. If you receive compensation for repairing, altering, or diagnosing vehicle malfunctions, you must be registered as an ARD. This now includes businesses that get paid for referring or subletting repair services. However, certain businesses are exempt, such as those servicing only non-passenger vehicles, fleet owners repairing only their fleet vehicles, and specific types of machine shops. Refer to Business and Professions Code sections 9880.1 and 9880.2 for detailed exemptions.
What if I want to perform mobile auto repairs?
Yes, mobile auto repair businesses also need to be registered as ARDs. On your application, you’ll need to provide the license plate number of your mobile repair vehicle. Mobile ARDs must display their business name, registration number, and phone number on online ads and the repair vehicle. See Sign and license display requirements for more details.
Who do I contact for required permits?
The table below lists the agencies to contact for specific permits needed for your ARD application:
| Permit | Agency & Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Domestic or Foreign LLC Number | California Secretary of State (916) 653-6814 www.sos.ca.gov |
| Seller Permit Number | California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (800) 400-7115 www.cdtfa.ca.gov |
| Federal Employer Identification Number | Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-3676 www.irs.gov |
| Local Jurisdiction Requirements/Permits/Licenses | California Environmental Protection Agency/CalGOLD (916) 323-2514 www.calgold.ca.gov |
How do I apply for a station license?
Existing ARDs or ARD applicants can apply for station licenses by submitting the appropriate application and fees. For STAR certification, refer to STAR Program.
Can I apply by mail?
While online applications are recommended for faster processing, paper applications are available for automotive repair dealer, Smog Check station, and vehicle safety systems inspection station licenses. Online applications generally lead to quicker processing.
What happens after application submission?
BAR will review your application for completeness and fee payment. Complete applications will be approved, and station inspections will be scheduled if applicable. Deficient or denied applications will be notified within 14 days, outlining the reasons and required steps.
After approval and license issuance, you can print your license online. Licensees are required to post licenses and necessary signs as per Sign and license display requirements.
Ensuring you have the correct licenses is fundamental to do auto repair legally and successfully in California. By understanding the requirements and processes, you can establish a compliant and trustworthy auto repair business.
