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How to Become a DMV Business Partner in California Guide
Becoming a California DMV Business Partner is one of the strongest opportunities for businesses that want to offer registration, titling, and compliance services.
If you are a California business that wants to process DMV work electronically, this page is for you. It explains how registration services, dealerships, and other automotive businesses become official DMV Business Partners through the Business Partner Automation (BPA) Program, what licenses you need, how long it takes, and how Expert can guide you through every step.
CA DMV BPA Business Partner Guide
This guide walks you through every requirement, every form, and every path to becoming a California DMV Second Line Business Partner. If you’re trying to start a registration service, upgrade your dealership, or simply understand what it takes to join the BPA Program, this page covers it.
What you’ll learn:
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What Is a DMV Business Partner?
A DMV Business Partner is a private business authorized by the California DMV to electronically process title and registration transactions through the Business Partner Automation (BPA) Program.
Business Partners can issue:
Validated Registration Cards
Full-Year Registration Stickers
Automobile, Commercial, PTI, Motorcycle, and Exempt License Plates
Sequential Arts Council Plates
There are two levels:
First-Line Service Provider (FLSP)
A company authorized to connect directly to the DMV and provide the software used by partners.
Expert is one of the very few FLSPs in California and the only one built by a SLBP.
Second-Line Business Partner (SLBP)
Registration services, dealerships, fleets, and other businesses who process DMV transactions using an FLSP’s system.
If your goal is to process transactions, issue stickers, or serve customers, you will become an SLBP.
DMV Business Partner Requirements (At a Glance)
To become a DMV Business Partner in California, every business must complete:
DMV Occupational License approval
Enrollment in the BPA Program through an FLSP
Compliance and security verification
Training and credentialing
Onsite inspection and inventory setup
These steps apply across all business types, but the specific requirements differ depending on what you are trying to become.
Below, each section covers a search-optimized topic.
How to Become a DMV Registration Service (Full Guide)
Becoming a Registration Service is the most common path into the DMV BPA Program. Registration Services operate independently, offer DMV-related services to the public, and can process transactions onsite through an FLSP like Expert.
Step 1 — Apply for a DMV Occupational License
You must hold a Registration Service Occupational License before joining the BPA Program.
To get your OL license, you need:
OL 599 — Application for Occupational License
OL 21 — $25,000 Surety Bond
OL 124 — Property Use Verification
OL 29 — Live Scan fingerprint clearance
OL 219 — Personal History Questionnaire
OL 54 — Appointment of Director/Manager (if applicable)
A commercial office location
Posted fee schedule and required signage
Secure storage for records and indicia
For a complete breakdown of every form, every requirement, and the full application process, see our full guide:
👉 California DMV Occupational License Guide
Step 2 — Join the DMV Business Partner Automation Program
Once your OL license is approved, you must enroll with a First-Line Service Provider like Expert. Registration Services cannot connect directly to the DMV; all SLBPs must use an FLSP.
Your FLSP provides:
DMV-certified software
Credential setup
Training
Compliance guidance
Inventory and sticker management
Ongoing support
Step 3 — Complete Onboarding & Start Processing
After system training, inspections, and credentialing, you can begin offering:
Renewals
Transfers
Out-of-state (Non-Resident)
Replacements
PTI
OHV
Vessel
Plus, you can issue validated registration cards and stickers onsite.
How to Become a DMV Dealership Partner
Dealerships participate in BPA differently based on license type.
New Car Dealers
BPA participation is mandatory.
All new car dealers must enroll with an FLSP.
Requirements:
Dealer Occupational License
Bond coverage
FLSP onboarding
System training for staff
Security compliance
Used Car Dealers
Participation is optional, but nearly all high-volume dealers use BPA because:
Deals close faster
Customers receive plates/stickers onsite
DMV trips are eliminated
Compliance improves with automated fee calculations
Used dealers must:
Hold a valid dealer OL license
Complete FLSP signup
Undergo training and security verification
Dealers can process:
New & Used Purchases
Lease transactions
Wholesale transactions
Transfers
Sales/Use Tax reporting
Plate & sticker issuance
If your dealership wants to join the BPA Program, an FLSP like Expert handles all onboarding requirements.
How to Become a DMV Partner in California
To become a DMV Partner, your business must complete:
1. DMV Occupational License Approval
This proves your business is legally authorized to provide DMV-related services.
2. BPA Enrollment through a First-Line Service Provider
The DMV does not allow direct integration.
You will choose an FLSP (Expert, Vitu, or AVRS).
3. Security, Compliance & Training Requirements
This includes:
Secure office and data handling
Fingerprint/background checks
Training for all users
Indicia inventory controls
Annual audits
Signed BPA agreement
4. Transaction & Inventory Readiness
Once approved, you can:
Issue validated registration cards
Issue stickers
Submit electronic transactions
Access vehicle & driver records
Manage inventory in compliance with DMV standards
DMV BPA Program Requirements
No matter what type of business you are, the DMV requires:
A valid Occupational License
DMV background clearance for all users
Secure office & equipment
Completed BPA contract
System training and certification
Indicia inventory management
Adherence to Title 13 code
Quarterly reconciliation & reporting
Annual audit readiness
Your FLSP (Expert) manages:
Technical integration
Credential setup
Training
Compliance guidance
Transaction support
Indicia ordering & inventory control
System updates
How Long Does It Take to Become a DMV Business Partner?
Timeframes vary:
Occupational License: 30–90 days
BPA onboarding: 1–3 weeks
Full approval: 6–12 weeks total
Businesses that work with Expert, come in prepared and move significantly faster. We have streamlined the process to get you up and running as an Approved DMV Business Partner faster than any of our competitors.
Why Businesses Choose Expert as Their FLSP
Expert is the first new First-Line Service Provider approved in nearly a decade and uniquely, the only one built by a Second-Line Business Partner.
That matters because:
Our system is built from real SLBP experience
Our onboarding is simple
Our fee structures are transparent
Our customer support is top-tier
Our analytics, tracking, and reliability outperform legacy competitors
We help new businesses become compliant quickly
We guide partners through every requirement, from OL licensing to full BPA operations
Whether you’re building a registration service, improving your dealership, or expanding your automotive business, Expert makes the process seamless.
Ready to Become a DMV Business Partner?
If you want:
A clean onboarding experience
Clear compliance guidance
Modern software
Straightforward pricing
White-glove support
A partner that actually cares
We’d love to help.
Expert. Built by people who lived the process, for people who are ready to grow.
Business type | Primary goal | Required CA DMV Occupational License | BPA participation | How BPA is used | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DMV Registration Service | Offer DMV registration and title services to the public | Registration Service Occupational License | Optional but highly recommended | Process renewals, transfers, non resident, and replacements for walk in customers | Entrepreneurs starting a DMV service business and existing registration offices |
New Car Dealership | Complete deals and issue plates and stickers on site | Vehicle Dealer Occupational License – New Motor | Mandatory | Submit new vehicle deals, print registration cards and stickers at the dealership | Franchise and high volume new car dealers |
Used Car Dealership | Speed up used car deliveries and reduce DMV visits | Vehicle Dealer Occupational License – Used Motor | Optional but common | Process used sales, transfers, and replacements with automated fee calculation | Independent and BHPH dealers who want faster, more professional deliveries |
Lease or Fleet Operator | Keep vehicles titled, registered, and on the road | Appropriate business or lessor retailer license | Optional | Manage renewals, replacements, and title updates for large vehicle fleets | Leasing companies, corporate fleets, rental and commercial operators |
Existing Automotive Business with OL | Add DMV services as a new revenue stream | Any valid automotive Occupational License (OL) | Optional | Offer registration support and selected DMV transactions to existing customers | Repair shops, body shops, remarketers, and related automotive businesses |
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our most common inquiries about becoming a DMV Business Partner
What is a DMV Business Partner in California?
A DMV Business Partner is a private business that has been approved by the California DMV to process title and registration transactions electronically through the Business Partner Automation (BPA) Program. Partners can issue validated registration cards, full year registration stickers, and in many cases license plates, instead of sending customers to a DMV field office.
Who can become a DMV Business Partner?
Any qualified California business that holds the correct DMV Occupational License can apply to become a DMV Business Partner. This includes registration services, new and used vehicle dealers, lessor retailers, fleets, rental companies, and other automotive businesses that want to process transactions electronically through an approved First Line Service Provider.
Do I need an Occupational License to become a DMV Business Partner?
Yes. The Occupational License is the foundation for becoming a DMV Business Partner. The DMV will not approve a business for the BPA Program without the correct OL license. Registration services, dealers, and most other automotive businesses must complete the OL application process before they can enroll with a First Line Service Provider and begin BPA onboarding.
How do I become a DMV registration service in California?
To become a DMV registration service in California, you first apply for a Registration Service Occupational License with the DMV Occupational Licensing division. Once your license is approved, you enroll in the BPA Program through a First Line Service Provider such as Expert. After training, inspections, and credential setup are complete, you can begin processing DMV transactions for the public at your office.
How do dealerships become DMV partners?
New vehicle dealers are required to participate in the BPA Program, while used dealers can choose to participate. Both must hold a valid dealer Occupational License, then onboard with a First Line Service Provider. The FLSP connects the dealership to the DMV, provides software and training, and ensures staff can submit deals, print registration cards and stickers, and manage inventory correctly.
How long does it take to become a DMV Business Partner?
Timeframes can vary, but most businesses can expect about 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish if they are prepared. The Occupational License process often takes 30 days depending on DMV volume and the completeness of the application. BPA onboarding through an FLSP commonly takes 30 Business Days once the OL license is in place and the business is ready for training and inspection.
What does it cost to become a DMV Business Partner?
Total costs include state fees for the Occupational License, the required surety bond, and any local business or zoning expenses, plus the fees charged by your First Line Service Provider. FLSP pricing usually includes setup costs and ongoing usage or transaction based fees. Exact amounts will depend on your business type, volume, and the services you plan to offer.
Can an individual become a DMV Business Partner, or do I need a business?
The DMV issues Occupational Licenses to businesses and business locations, not to casual individuals. You must operate as a properly structured business with a commercial office that meets DMV requirements. This includes appropriate zoning, posted signage, secure storage, and the ability to maintain records and inventory according to DMV rules.
What are the main benefits of joining the BPA Program?
The main benefits include faster processing, fewer DMV visits, better customer experience, and more control over your workflow. DMV Business Partners can issue registration cards and stickers on site, automate fee calculations, reduce errors, and integrate DMV processing into their daily operations. For registration services and dealers, this often becomes a core revenue and customer satisfaction driver.
How does Expert help businesses become DMV Business Partners?
Expert guides businesses through the entire journey, from understanding Occupational License requirements to full BPA onboarding and ongoing operations. We help you get prepared, coordinate with the DMV where appropriate, train your staff on our system, and support you as you begin processing transactions. Our goal is to get you approved and operating as a DMV Business Partner as quickly and cleanly as possible.
How can I get started with Expert?
Getting started is easy:
Click on Get Started to Contact us through our website or call 916-407-3359.