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California · Auto Dealers · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your California Auto Dealer License

California auto dealers must complete 4 hours of board-approved continuing education each renewal period, as required by California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing.

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing rule on September 4, 2026.

CE hours
4 hours
Renewal cycle
each renewal period
Next deadline
Per license
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers California auto dealers holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing.

When to renew

California auto dealers licenses renew each renewal period, on the schedule your board assigns to your license. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&sectionNum=11704.5)

The continuing education California requires

California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing requires 4 hours of approved continuing education each renewal period. The board does not mandate specific topics beyond the approved-course requirement.

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    California sets auto dealers requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run the schedule your board assigns to your license.

  2. 2

    Complete 4 hours of board-approved continuing education

    California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing requires 4 hours each renewal period. Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the California auto dealers course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In California, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.

  5. 5

    Renew with California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing

    Submit your renewal through the board’s online portal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.

    Go to California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing

California auto dealer renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do California auto dealers need?
California auto dealers must complete 4 hours of board-approved continuing education each renewal period, as set by California Department of Motor Vehicles, Occupational Licensing.
Can California auto dealers complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the California requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

Sources