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The Ultimate California DMV BPA Program Guide for Second Line Business Partners (SLBPs)
The California DMV BPA Program Guide was built by Expert to support businesses looking to become a Second Line Business Partner. It provides a real world understanding of the program and the expectations placed on its participants by the DMV and Legislation.
California DMV BPA Program Guide
The California Business Partner Automation Guide is built by Expert to provide current Second Line Business Partners and those looking to become a Second Line Business Partner, with the most up to date and beneficial information.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Business Partner Automation (BPA) program is a cornerstone of modern vehicle registration in the state. This guide, brought to you by ExpertEVR, provides comprehensive DMV BPA program information tailored for businesses looking to become Second-Line Business Partners (SLBPs). We explain the program’s structure, requirements, fees, and application process in a formal, step-by-step manner. With ExpertEVR’s industry expertise, prospective SLBPs will gain a clear understanding of how to navigate the CA DMV BPA program and leverage its benefits.
What is the California DMV BPA Program?
The Business Partner Automation (BPA) program is an initiative by the California DMV that allows qualified private entities to process vehicle registration and titling transactions electronically on the DMV’s behalf. Instead of customers having to visit a DMV field office for tasks like new vehicle registrations, title transfers, or registration renewals, authorized business partners can handle these transactions remotely through approved DMV interfaces. This streamlines operations for businesses and provides convenience to customers by eliminating the need for in-person DMV visits, resulting in faster turnaround times for vehicle paperwork. In essence, the BPA program creates a private-public partnership where the DMV oversees and contracts with industry partners to improve efficiency in vehicle registration services.
Why is this important for businesses? For many automotive businesses (such as car dealerships, registration services, rental or leasing companies, and others), time is money. The BPA program enables these businesses to directly issue license plates, registration cards, and stickers, and to submit title/registration applications electronically, all under DMV oversight. By using the BPA system, a company can serve its customers immediately at the point of sale, avoid mailing paperwork to the DMV for processing, and reduce errors through automated data entry. This not only enhances the customer experience but can also boost the business’s productivity and reputation.
First Line Service Providers vs. Second Line Business Partners
The BPA program is structured with two primary participant categories: First-Line and Second-Line Business Partners. Understanding the difference is crucial:
First-Line Service Providers (FLSPs) (sometimes called First-Line Business Partners in DMV regulations) are entities that contract directly with the DMV to interface with its registration database. FLSPs establish secure electronic connections to DMV systems and often develop the software and infrastructure needed to process registration transactions. There are a limited number of authorized FLSPs in California (the DMV lists six as of 2025). First-Line Service Providers serve as the gateway for other businesses, meaning they transmit data to and from the DMV. Some FLSPs operate solely for their own company’s internal vehicle fleet (these are sometimes referred to as first-line business partners), while others act as service providers for second-line partners statewide.
Second-Line Business Partners (SLBPs) are the businesses that use an FLSP’s system to complete DMV transactions. An SLBP could be a new or used car dealership, a vehicle rental or leasing company, a registration service, a salvage pool, or a dismantler, essentially any qualified company that processes vehicle transactions for its customers or internal needs. SLBPs do not connect directly to the DMV; instead, they must work through an authorized First-Line Service Provider. For example, a car dealership (as an SLBP) will contract with an FLSP who provides the software and access to electronically file registrations and issue plates on the dealership’s behalf. This relationship is mandated: “A second-line business partner must retain the services of a first-line service provider with an existing, valid BPA contract.”. In other words, becoming an SLBP means you’ll partner with a DMV-approved FLSP who facilitates your electronic transactions.
Regulatory Note: California Vehicle Code §1685 authorizes the DMV’s private industry partnerships and defines these roles. All new motor vehicle dealers in California are now required by law to use electronic registration (i.e., participate as an SLBP) for their sales, a mandate established in 2011. Used vehicle dealers and other businesses may join the program voluntarily, but doing so can offer significant advantages in efficiency and allowed fees. We’ll explore those benefits next.
Benefits of Participating in the BPA Program
Joining the California DMV BPA program as a second-line partner can yield several key benefits for your business:
Efficiency and Time Savings: Transactions that might take days or weeks through mailed paperwork can be completed in minutes electronically. Dealers can issue license plates and registration cards on the spot. This accelerated process frees up time for staff and reduces back-and-forth with DMV offices.
Improved Customer Service: Your customers leave with their vehicle’s registration and plates immediately, without an extra trip to the DMV. Faster service and on-the-spot completion lead to higher customer satisfaction and a more professional image for your business.
Ability to Charge Service Fees: Businesses in the BPA program are allowed to charge customers a service fee for the convenience of handling DMV transactions. For example, registration services and other non-dealer partners can set their own service fee amounts for processing registrations. (Licensed vehicle dealers and dismantlers have separate statutory limits (such as the document processing charge cap) which we’ll discuss below.) The DMV explicitly permits charging a customer for the service provided, on top of the DMV’s fees. This means the program not only saves time but can also create an additional revenue stream for handling paperwork.
Higher Dealer Documentation Fees: For car dealerships, being in the BPA program (as a contracted private industry partner under VC §1685) allows a higher documentation processing charge to be collected from vehicle buyers. California law caps the dealer “doc fee” at $85 for dealerships in the electronic registration program, versus a $70 cap for dealers not participating. This difference incentivizes dealerships to join the BPA program because they can legally earn a bit more per transaction to offset their processing costs.
Electronic Filing Fee Recovery: Dealers in the BPA program can also charge an electronic filing fee to the vehicle buyer to recover the costs charged by their first-line service provider. State law permits the actual amount charged by the FLSP (or $33, whichever is less) to be passed through to the customer as an electronic filing charge. In practice, this means if your FLSP charges you $20 per registration transaction, you can charge the customer $20 as the e-filing fee. If the FLSP’s fee is higher, note that the law sets a maximum of $33 that can be charged to the customer for e-filing each vehicle, even if your costs are greater. This cap is defined in California Vehicle Code §4456.5 and is aimed at preventing mark-ups. The e-file fee must truly be a pass-through of your cost, not a profit center.
Competitive Advantage and Accuracy: BPA partners often experience fewer errors because data is entered directly and validated against DMV systems in real-time. This accuracy reduces rejections or returned paperwork. Moreover, offering on-site registration processing can set your business apart from competitors who cannot offer that convenience.
In summary, the BPA program can make your operations more streamlined, customer-friendly, and even slightly more profitable (through allowable fees) while ensuring DMV transactions are handled correctly and securely.
Eligibility Requirements for Second-Line Business Partners (SLBPs)
What kinds of businesses can become second-line partners? According to the DMV, a variety of company types are eligible, including vehicle dealers (new or used), registration services, vehicle rental or leasing companies, dismantlers, and salvage pools. Essentially, if your business is involved in registering or titling vehicles (either your own fleet or on behalf of customers), you could qualify as an SLBP.
Here are the key eligibility and prerequisite requirements to join the BPA program as a Second-Line Business Partner:
Valid Occupational License: Your business must hold any state-required occupational license for its category. For example, new and used car dealers must have a dealer license, registration services must be licensed by the DMV, dismantlers need a dismantler license, etc. The DMV will ask for proof of a current license in good standing as part of the BPA application. (If you are a business type that is not required to have a DMV occupational license, this requirement may not apply, but most SLBP-eligible businesses do have one.)
First-Line Service Provider Contract: You must establish a contract with an authorized First-Line Service Provider before applying to the DMV. The FLSP essentially sponsors your application into the program. Since FLSPs have the direct link to the DMV system, they will provide the software, training, and support for your transactions. In practice, a prospective second-line partner will choose an FLSP (based on services, software features, fees, etc.), and that FLSP will guide you through the application process to become an authorized BPA participant under them.
Proper Business Location and Equipment: You need a secure business location in California that meets DMV standards for handling sensitive materials. This typically means having a locked office or dedicated space where registration processing will occur, with adequate security measures for any DMV supplies (like license plates and stickers). The site may be subject to inspection or must at least be described in your application (floor plan, security narrative, and photographs are usually required). Additionally, you must have the necessary equipment, such as computers with internet access and printers, to use the FLSP’s system and print documents. The DMV expects SLBPs to maintain information security best practices, so your computers should be secure and your staff trained in protecting DMV data.
No Additional Bond (Beyond Your License Bond): Unlike first-line providers, second-line business partners are not required to post a separate BPA surety bond with the DMV. First-line providers must carry substantial bonds (covered later in this guide), but second-line partners operate under their existing license’s bond requirements. For instance, dealers already have a dealer bond (e.g. $50,000 for auto dealers in California), and a licensed registration service has a bond for its license. The DMV does not currently mandate an extra BPA program bond for second-line participants. This lowers the barrier to entry for small businesses because you don’t need to secure a new $50k or $1M bond simply to join the BPA program; your existing occupational license bond suffices for DMV’s purposes. (Always ensure your license bond remains current. Any lapse in your required business license bond could affect your BPA status.)
Good Character and Compliance History: While not explicitly listed as a requirement, it is implicit that the owners/principals of the business should be in good legal standing. The DMV will perform background checks (fingerprinting) on owners and any employees who will use the system. A history of fraud or regulatory violations could disqualify an applicant. Additionally, the business should not have unpaid DMV debts or prior issues in other DMV programs.
If your company meets the above criteria, you are likely eligible to apply. Next, we’ll outline the application process step by step.
Application Process for Second-Line Business Partners
Becoming a second-line business partner involves a formal application and approval process managed by the DMV’s BPA Program Unit, in coordination with your chosen First-Line Service Provider. Below is a step-by-step guide to the process:
Choose an Authorized First-Line Service Provider (FLSP): Begin by selecting which FLSP you want to partner with. Since you must apply through an FLSP, this choice is important. California currently has six authorized FLSPs (examples include companies like Vitu, Motor Vehicle Software Corporation (MVSC), Automated Vehicle Registration Services (AVRS), etc.). Each FLSP offers its own software platform and support services, so you may evaluate which is the best fit for your dealership or business. Once you’ve decided, contact that FLSP and let them know you wish to become a second-line partner under their guidance. They will typically provide you with the necessary forms, agreements, and detailed instructions specific to their system.
Complete the Required DMV Application Forms: The core form for SLBPs is the Business Partner Automation Application for Second-Line Business Partner (REG 4025). You will need to fill out this application with information about your business (ownership, location, type of transactions you’ll process, etc.). Additionally, there are several supporting documents you must prepare, often including:
A Business Plan, Floor Plan, and Security Plan: You may need to submit a floor plan of your office and a written description of how you will secure DMV inventory (plates, stickers) and sensitive information. Photographs of the location might be required to verify it meets security standards.
Information Security Agreements (Forms DMV EXEC 201X and 200X): These are DMV forms where you attest to following information security and disclosure rules. Typically, one is signed on behalf of the firm, and another is signed by each employee/user who will access the DMV system. They outline the responsibilities for safeguarding data.
Personal History Questionnaire (Form REG 4019): Each owner, partner, or principal person in the business (and sometimes each user) must complete this background questionnaire. It’s used for DMV’s screening process.
Live Scan Fingerprints (Form DMV 8016): All individuals who will have access to the BPA system need to undergo a fingerprint-based background check. You’ll take a Request for Live Scan Service form to an authorized Live Scan provider to be fingerprinted, and you’ll include the receipts or proof of completion in your application. Note: A business owner who already holds a current occupational license (e.g. a dealer license) may be exempt from a new fingerprint submission if prints are already on file with DMV, but confirm this with your FLSP/DMV.
First-Line Provider Contract or Enrollment Agreement: Your FLSP will likely have their own contract or service agreement for you to sign, which might be included in the DMV application packet to show that you have an arrangement in place.
Your FLSP will often give you a checklist to ensure you gather all required documents. It’s important to fill everything out completely; the DMV will reject an incomplete application and this will delay your approval.
Pay the Application Fees: Prepare payment for the DMV application fees. Currently, the DMV charges a $305 non-refundable application fee for each primary business location, plus $232 for each additional branch location you include in your application. For example, if you are applying for your main office and two branch offices at the same time, the total DMV fees would be $305 + (2 x $232) = $769. These fees must be paid by check or money order (payable to DMV) and submitted with your application package. Note: If you decide to add a branch location later, you would need to submit a separate application for that site with the $232 fee at that time. Also, Live Scan fingerprinting fees are paid directly to the Live Scan service provider (typically around $20-$30 plus government processing fees per person) and are not included in the $305/$232 DMV fees. Keep your Live Scan receipts as proof of completion.
Submit the Application Package (via Your FLSP): Once all forms are completed and fees prepared, you will submit the entire package to your first-line service provider, not directly to the DMV. The FLSP will review your materials to ensure everything is in order. They may have you send it to their corporate office or directly to a liaison who handles BPA program onboarding. The FLSP then forwards the application to the DMV BPA Program Unit on your behalf (often with additional technical information about how your location will connect to their system). Tip: Make copies of all documents for your records before submission.
Pre-Implementation and DMV Approval: After your application is received, the DMV will review it for completeness and conduct background checks. They have up to 30 days to confirm if your application packet is complete, and then up to 90 days to grant approval once a complete packet is on file. During this period, you might be contacted for any clarifications or to correct deficiencies. Your FLSP will typically assist in addressing any issues.
In some cases, DMV investigators may visit your business location to verify the setup (ensuring you have secure storage for inventory and that the location matches the floor plan and addresses given). Assuming all is in order, the DMV will issue your BPA permit and sign a contract with you (via your FLSP’s master contract). Congratulations! At that point, you are an official Second-Line Business Partner!
Training and System Setup: Once approved, you’ll work with your FLSP to install any necessary software, receive inventory (like license plate stock, registration cardstock, stickers, etc.), and train your employees on how to use the system. FLSPs often provide on-site training or webinars. You must also ensure each user has a unique login and follows DMV security protocols. The FLSP connects your office into the live DMV interface, and you can begin processing registration transactions. Often, initial transactions might be closely monitored or double-checked by the FLSP to ensure compliance. After the onboarding, you will be expected to operate independently, with technical support from the FLSP as needed.
Throughout the application process, maintain close communication with your FLSP representative. They are as invested as you are in getting your business operational under the BPA program, since you’ll essentially become their client. If you encounter any delays or lack updates, don’t hesitate to politely check in with them or the DMV BPA Unit.
Timeline: From the time you submit your completed application, expect roughly 1-3 months for approval (varies case by case). California DMV’s published guideline is that an application will be decided upon within 90 days of receiving all required documents. In practice, some approvals happen sooner. It’s wise to start the process well before you actually need to be up and running (for example, before a new dealership opens or before your busy season).
Program Costs and Bonding Requirements
Becoming a BPA partner involves some costs and, for first-line providers, significant bonding requirements. We’ve mentioned the application fees already, and below we summarize the costs and financial requirements for both first-line providers and second-line partners in the program:
DMV Application Fees: As noted, the DMV charges $305 for the main application and $232 for each additional branch location. These are one-time fees to process your initial application. The fees are non-refundable, even if your application is not approved, so preparation is key.
Bond Requirements: Second-line business partners do not need to post a special BPA bond with DMV beyond any bond required for their underlying license. However, for context, if your company were applying to be a first-line provider, the bonding requirements are much higher. First-Line Business Partners (companies processing only their own vehicles directly with DMV) must provide a $650,000 surety bond. First-Line Service Providers (those who will serve other businesses) must secure a $1,000,000 surety bond. These bonds are a form of financial security to protect the state and public against any misconduct or serious errors (for example, to cover fees in case a provider fails to forward collected DMV payments, or commits fraud). The vast majority of SLBPs will never need to worry about these large bonds. They are the responsibility of the FLSPs. It’s still good to be aware of them, as it underscores why you should choose a reputable first-line provider. The provider’s bond is an indication of their accountability: DMV essentially has financial recourse against an FLSP if something goes awry. (For completeness, note that some categories of first-line business partner like large companies handling only internal registrations have the $650k bond, while the service-oriented providers carry $1M. In addition, California regulations historically required a modest bond for second-line partners engaged in certain transactions (around $50,000), but DMV’s current practice is to rely on the occupational license bonds instead. Always verify current bonding rules in case regulations change.)
First-Line Provider Service Fees: While not a fee paid to the DMV, remember that your chosen FLSP will charge your business for their services. This could be in the form of per-transaction fees, monthly subscription fees for software, or a combination. For example, an FLSP might charge a dealership $5 per registration transaction plus a base monthly software fee. These costs vary by provider and should be discussed upfront when you’re choosing an FLSP. It’s wise to compare what each provider offers. Some may bundle additional services (like inventory management, integrative accounting software, etc.) into their pricing. Ensure you understand how and when the FLSP will bill you, as this will affect your profit margins on deals.
Ongoing DMV Fees: Once you’re operational, the DMV imposes a $6 electronic transaction fee for each transaction you process through the BPA system. This is essentially a fee the DMV charges the business partner for using the electronic system. In practice, your FLSP will typically collect this $6 on behalf of DMV (often, it’s embedded in the software and remitted to DMV periodically). The good news is that you are allowed to pass this $6 fee on to the customer as part of their registration charges. Most dealers and registration services simply include it in the registration fees line item on the customer’s invoice. Just be transparent. You can list it as an “Electronic Filing Fee” or similar, but should not be misrepresented as a government fee (it’s considered a partner’s charge allowed by law). Usually, customers accept it as part of the convenience of not having to visit the DMV.
Equipment and Training Costs: Don’t forget to account for any hardware or software costs. Some FLSPs might require you to purchase specific printers or barcode scanners for DMV documents, or charge for training sessions. Make sure to ask your FLSP about any one-time setup fees. Many provide the initial setup and training free or at low cost because they recoup via per-transaction charges.
Finally, keep in mind that the BPA program contract/permit must be renewed every 36 months (3 years). There may be a renewal fee (often similar to the application fee) and requirements to update your information or bond at renewal. Mark your calendar for your permit’s expiration date once you’re approved, so you can renew on time and avoid any lapse in your authorization.
Permissible Fees to Customers (Service Fees & Legal Limits)
One common question from new BPA participants is: “What fees can I charge my customers for these services?” The answer depends on your business type:
Service Fees (General): All BPA partners are allowed to charge a service fee to their customers for handling registration transactions. This is typically thought of as a convenience or processing fee. For businesses like registration services (who register vehicles for private parties) or salvage pools, there is no specific cap on the service fee; it can be whatever the market supports, as long as it’s reasonable and disclosed. You might charge a flat rate (say $25 for a renewal) or a variable fee depending on the complexity of the transaction. The DMV explicitly notes that “licensed registration services and salvage pools are not restricted to the fee amount they may charge.”. So, these entities have flexibility in setting their prices for providing expedited DMV services.
Dealer Transaction Fees: Franchise (new) and independent (used) vehicle dealers, as well as dismantlers, operate under some statutory fee limits:
Documentation Fee: As mentioned earlier, dealers in the BPA program can charge up to $85 for the document processing fee (this covers preparation of sales contracts, titles, etc.), whereas non-BPA dealers max out at $70. This doc fee is separate from DMV fees and is set by state law to protect consumers. Dealers must not advertise it as a state fee; it’s a dealer charge.
Electronic Filing Charge: Dealers can charge an electronic filing fee to recoup the cost the FLSP charges them for each registration. By law, the dealer’s electronic filing charge cannot exceed the actual cost charged by the first-line provider or $33, whichever is less. This means if an FLSP’s fee is $10, the dealer charges $10; if the FLSP’s fee is $40 (unlikely high), the dealer could only charge $33 to the customer and would have to absorb the rest. Dealers should note that if they use an independent registration service (instead of doing BPA in-house), they are not supposed to separately charge an electronic filing fee to the customer.
DMV Fees and Taxes: Of course, any actual DMV fees (like vehicle registration fees, title fees, sales tax, etc.) that are due must be collected exactly as calculated and remitted fully to DMV; those are government fees and not marked up. The BPA program doesn’t change the amount of DMV fees; it just allows you to process them electronically.
Licensed dealers and dismantlers are also subject to an older rule that effectively capped any “service fee” at $29 per transaction (this $29 cap is a legacy amount from when electronic filing was first introduced; it’s essentially superseded by the $33/$85 rules described above for what dealers can charge in doc and e-filing fees). In any case, dealers should stay within the bounds of Vehicle Code §4456.5 and related statutes to avoid any violation. The California DMV and auditors do monitor dealership paperwork, and overcharging above the legal limits could result in penalties.
Transparency: Whatever fee you charge, transparency is key. Make sure the customer knows they are paying for your service or the convenience of on-site registration. The electronic filing fee and service fee cannot be misrepresented as official DMV fees. Many businesses provide a breakdown on the invoice (for example: DMV Fees $300, Electronic Filing Fee $XX, Service Fee $YY). Keeping the fees clear will maintain trust and also keep you compliant with California’s truth-in-fee laws.
In summary, BPA participants can legally offset their costs and even generate revenue by charging service fees and allowable add-ons, but those charges are regulated in the case of dealers. Always refer to the latest DMV guidelines or Vehicle Code for any updates on fee limits (for instance, fee caps can be adjusted by new legislation, so staying informed is part of running a compliant operation).
Maintaining Compliance and Renewal of Your BPA Permit
Once you’re up and running as a second-line business partner, your responsibilities don’t end at just processing transactions. The DMV expects ongoing compliance with program rules to ensure integrity and security. Here are some key points on maintaining your good standing in the BPA program:
Secure Handling of Inventory and Data: You will be entrusted with controlled DMV inventory such as license plates, registration stickers, and completion certificates. These items must be secured at all times (typically in locked cabinets or safes) and logged.
You’ll also have access to sensitive personal data (owner names, addresses, VINs, etc.) through the system. It’s critical to follow the information security practices you agreed to. Only authorized personnel should use the BPA system, and they should each have their own login credentials. Never share passwords or permit untrained staff to access the system. The DMV’s terms prohibit using the BPA system for any unauthorized lookups; in fact, the system does not provide a general inquiry function for partners. You can only process transactions for which you have legitimate paperwork. If you need to do any kind of record inquiry outside a transaction, you must go through separate DMV channels.
Timely Submission of Fees: As a BPA partner, you are effectively an agent transmitting fees to DMV. The DMV will require that all registration fees you collect are properly remitted. Generally, second-line partners forward fees to their first-line provider, who then sends them to DMV (often via electronic funds transfer). Make sure your payments to your FLSP (or directly to DMV, if applicable) are timely and do not bounce.
The FLSP’s deposit agreement will outline how often you must settle. Some providers require daily sweeps from your bank, while others use a periodic invoice. Failure to pay DMV fees (for example, if an ACH transfer fails) can result in suspension from the program.
Recordkeeping: Maintain meticulous records of all BPA transactions. This includes copies of processed applications, any voided or error transactions, and inventory logs. The DMV can audit your records. They may require periodic reports or have the right to inspect your site to ensure compliance. Keep all documentation for at least the period specified in the regulations (often at least 2-3 years).
Changes in Your Business: If you have any significant change (such as moving to a new address, changing ownership structure, or switching to a different first-line service provider), you need to inform the DMV BPA program in advance or as soon as possible. There are specific forms for changes (for example, BPA Program Application for Changes, REG 4026 for address or other changes; Service Provider Change, REG 4022 if you change FLSP). Don’t assume that because you’re already in the program, you can move offices or sell the business without notifying DMV; failing to report changes could invalidate your contract.
Permit Renewal: Your BPA participation is not indefinite. The initial contract/permit is valid for 36 months (3 years). You must renew your participation before it expires to continue operations. The DMV will typically send a reminder or your FLSP will alert you. The renewal process may involve submitting a renewal application (Form REG 5056), updating any documentation, and paying a renewal fee (often the same $305 main fee and $232 per branch, subject to change). Plan ahead for this renewal. Mark the expiration date when you first get your permit. If a permit lapses, you may have to cease processing until it’s reinstated, which can hurt your business continuity.
Staying Updated on Regulations: The DMV BPA program can evolve. It’s important to stay informed about any changes in California law or DMV policies that affect the program. For instance, if the legislature changes the maximum allowed fees or adds new compliance requirements, you should adapt immediately. As a member of the program, you might receive bulletins or updates from the DMV or your FLSP. Additionally, attending annual industry seminars (or FLSP user conferences) can be beneficial. ExpertEVR and similar industry experts often publish updates or guides (like this one) to help partners remain compliant with the latest rules.
By diligently following the rules and maintaining open communication with both your FLSP and the DMV, you will ensure a smooth operation under the BPA program. The DMV’s goal is to extend their services through private partners without compromising on accuracy or security. If you help meet that goal, you’ll find the partnership to be very rewarding for your business.
Expert: Your Partner in Navigating the BPA Program
Expert has deep experience with California’s electronic vehicle registration landscape, including the BPA program. This guide is part of our commitment to educating and supporting prospective Second-Line Business Partners. Whether you’re a dealership evaluating how to get started with electronic registrations, or a registration service looking to expand your offerings, Expert is here to help.
As a knowledgeable ally (and a participant in the industry), we understand the BPA program inside and out, from the legal requirements to the practical day-to-day usage of FLSP systems. Our team stays up-to-date with DMV regulations and maintains relationships with first-line providers and regulatory officials. This means when rules change or fees update, you can count on Expert to provide clarity and guidance.
How we add value: While the DMV and FLSPs will handle the mechanics of your application, Expert can offer consulting to make the process even easier. We assist businesses in preparing for the BPA program by reviewing compliance checklists, advising on best practices for setup (e.g. securing inventory, training staff), and even helping to compare FLSP options. Our goal is to ensure that when you join the BPA program, you not only get approved quickly but also maximize the benefits from day one, whether through optimized workflows or effective fee strategies that remain customer-friendly.
In crafting this BPA program guide, we’ve combined official California DMV information with real-world insights. We’ve cited California DMV and regulatory sources throughout for accuracy. For instance, we confirmed the exact fees and bond amounts from DMV documentation and the legal fee caps from state law. By relying on up-to-date sources, we ensure you’re getting a guide that reflects the most recent program rules and figures.
We hope this comprehensive guide has demystified the California DMV BPA program for you. Becoming a Second-Line Business Partner may initially seem complex, but with the right information and support, it can be a smooth and highly beneficial process for your business. For further reading or assistance, feel free to reach out to ExpertEVR or consult the California DMV’s official BPA program materials. Good luck with your BPA program journey, and welcome to the future of efficient vehicle registration!
Sources:
California DMV, “Business Partner Automation Program (BPA) – How to Become a Business Partner” (requirements and bond amounts for first-line and second-line partners; list of authorized providers)
California DMV, BPA Program Application Requirements (application fees, occupational licensing, and security requirements for BPA applicants)
California DMV, FAQs on BPA Program (information on DMV $6 transaction fee and service fee allowances)
California Vehicle Code §4456.5 and §1685 (legal basis for dealer documentation fee and electronic filing charge limits)
California Code of Regulations, Title 13 §225.00 (definitions of business partner roles and requirement for second-line to use a first-line provider)
California DMV, Industry Handbook 2.015 (noting that dealers using a registration service cannot charge an e-filing fee to buyers).