How to Access CarMax Dealer Auctions in California

What Are CarMax Dealer Auctions?

CarMax Dealer Auctions is a wholesale marketplace designed exclusively for licensed vehicle dealers. Unlike traditional retail CarMax stores where consumers buy cars, CarMax auctions sell vehicles that don't meet the company's retail standards directly to dealers at wholesale prices.

The CarMax Auction Model

Here's what makes CarMax auctions different from other wholesale channels:

All Inventory is CarMax-Owned: Unlike Manheim or ADESA, which sell consignment vehicles from multiple dealers, every car at a CarMax auction belongs to CarMax. These are trade-ins and off-lease vehicles that didn't qualify for CarMax's retail lots. This means consistent sourcing and clear title ownership.

Transparent, "As-Is" Sales: All vehicles are sold as-is, but CarMax provides detailed condition reports based on their 125-point inspection process. You know what you're buying before you bid.

Weekly Auctions Across California: Most CarMax auction locations in California run sales every week, giving dealers consistent access to fresh inventory. Some locations operate bi-weekly or monthly depending on volume.

Multiple Bidding Options: Dealers can bid in three ways:

• Live In-Person Bidding: Attend the auction at any California location
• Simulcast (Online) Bidding: Participate remotely in real-time during the live auction
• Early/Proxy Bids: Set your maximum bid in advance; the system bids for you automatically during the sale

Free Registration: Unlike some auction platforms that charge membership fees, CarMax auction registration is free. Once registered, you can attend any CarMax auction nationwide.

CarMax Auction Locations in California

California has 9 CarMax auction locations spread across major metropolitan areas:

1. Duarte - Los Angeles/San Gabriel Valley
2. Fremont - San Francisco Bay Area
3. Irvine - Orange County
4. Murrieta - Inland Empire (4-lane facility, 800+ vehicles weekly)
5. Oceanside - North San Diego County
6. Oxnard - Ventura County
7. Pleasanton - East Bay
8. Roseville - Sacramento region
9. Sacramento - Central Valley

Most locations hold auctions weekly, typically on the same day each week. For current schedules, registered dealers can check the CarMax Auctions website or call the Auction Information Line at 1-888-804-6604.

Need help finding the nearest auction to your area? Check out the complete California auction locations map in our Dealer Playbook, which covers CarMax, Manheim, ADESA, and other major auction platforms.

What Vehicles Are Available?

CarMax auction inventory typically consists of:

• Trade-ins that don't meet CarMax retail criteria
• Off-lease and repo vehicles
• Vehicles averaging 10 years old with 100,000+ miles
• Wide range of makes and models: economy sedans, trucks, SUVs, luxury vehicles
• California-friendly inventory matching local market demand

The key is that these vehicles have been documented through CarMax's inspection process. While they're sold as-is, you're not buying blind.

Why California Dealers Choose CarMax Auctions

With multiple auction platforms available to California dealers, why does CarMax continue to attract thousands of licensed dealers every week? Here are the key advantages:

1. Transparent Pricing and Detailed Condition Reports

CarMax built its retail reputation on transparency, and that philosophy carries through to its dealer auctions. Every vehicle undergoes a 125-point inspection, and detailed condition reports are available online three days before the auction date.

These reports include:

• Mechanical condition assessments
• Known issues (disclosed per National Auto Auction Association standards)
• Service history when available
• Title status (clean, salvage, branded titles clearly marked)
• Structural or flood damage disclosure

For California dealers who need to maintain customer trust and comply with state disclosure requirements, this transparency is invaluable. You can research and evaluate vehicles from your office before deciding which ones to bid on.

Pricing is also straightforward. While buy fees vary based on vehicle selling price, CarMax makes these fees visible through the Simulcast platform before you bid, so you can calculate your all-in costs accurately.

2. Diverse Inventory Matching California's Market

California's automotive market is diverse. Coastal areas favor fuel-efficient sedans and hybrids. Inland and mountain regions lean toward trucks and SUVs. Urban markets want luxury and electric vehicles.

CarMax auctions source inventory from CarMax retail locations across the U.S., providing California dealers with access to a wide range of vehicles. Whether you're stocking a used car lot in San Diego or building inventory for a niche market in the Central Valley, you'll find options at CarMax auctions.

The platform's search filters allow you to narrow by:

• Make and model
• Year range
• Mileage
• Price
• Location (proximity to your business)

3. Dealer-Friendly Digital Platform

CarMax has invested heavily in technology to make the auction experience efficient. The platform includes:

Mobile App (iOS and Android): Research inventory, view photos, place notes, create watchlists, set early bids, and participate in live auctions from your phone.

Dashboard and Account Management: Track your bids, review purchase history, manage authorized representatives, and access account settings from a centralized dashboard.

Watchlists and Alerts: Save searches for specific vehicle types and receive notifications when matching inventory becomes available. This is especially useful for dealers targeting specific makes, models, or price points.

Early Bidding: Can't attend the live auction? Set a proxy bid up to your maximum price. The system will automatically bid for you during the sale, increasing incrementally up to your limit.

This digital-first approach means you can source inventory efficiently without spending entire days at physical auction lanes.

4. Flexible Payment and Financing Options

CarMax understands cash flow challenges for dealers, especially new operators. Payment is required within 24-48 hours of winning a vehicle, but several options are available:

• Direct Payment: Wire transfer, ACH, or dealer check
• Floor Plan Financing: CarMax partners with NextGear Capital and AFC Financing, allowing qualified dealers to finance auction purchases and pay back the loan when the vehicle sells
• Line of Credit: Established dealers can set up revolving credit lines

Floor plan financing is particularly valuable for newer dealers who want to build inventory without tying up all their capital in a few vehicles.

Transportation Services: CarMax Auction Vehicle Moves provides delivery coordination. You can arrange to have purchased vehicles transported to your location, though inoperable vehicles may incur additional costs. Storage fees apply if you can't receive vehicles as scheduled.

5. Arbitration Protection for Undisclosed Issues

While all vehicles are sold as-is, CarMax allows dealers to file arbitration claims for mechanical issues that were not disclosed in the condition report and are covered by auction policies.

If a claim is valid, CarMax will either:

• Accept a vehicle return
• Offer a price adjustment to cover repairs

The arbitration process is free and can be initiated through the platform's "My Transactions" section. This provides a safety net for dealers, especially those new to buying at auction.

The Reality Check: What to Know Before You Start

CarMax auctions aren't perfect for every situation. Here's what to understand:

As-Is Sales Mean Risk: Despite detailed condition reports, you're ultimately buying vehicles as-is. Mechanical issues may exist that weren't caught in inspection. Always factor in reconditioning costs.

Competition Exists: CarMax's transparency and dealer-friendly approach attract many buyers. Popular vehicles in good condition will have competitive bidding. You need to know your numbers and stick to them.

Volume Varies by Location: While large locations like Murrieta run 800+ vehicles weekly, smaller locations may have 100-200 vehicles per sale. If you need high volume quickly, you may need to supplement with other auction sources.

California Emissions Compliance: Remember that vehicles purchased at auction must meet California's emissions standards when you resell them. Factor this into your buying decisions, especially for out-of-state vehicles.

For most California dealers, CarMax auctions work best as part of a diversified sourcing strategy. Successful dealers typically register with CarMax, Manheim, ADESA, and online platforms to maximize their inventory options.

California Dealer License Requirements for Auction Access

Here's the part that stops most people: before you can register for CarMax auctions, you must have an active California dealer license. CarMax verifies all licenses directly with the DMV before approving auction access. No license, no access.

Which License Type Qualifies?

California offers several types of dealer licenses, but not all of them grant auction access. Here's what works for CarMax:

? Wholesale Dealer License: This license allows you to buy vehicles at auction and sell them to other licensed dealers, but not directly to consumers. If your business model is flipping cars to retail dealers or operating as a wholesaler, this is your license. Cost: $175 application fee, $50,000 surety bond required.

? Retail Dealer License (Used): This is the most common license for dealers who want to sell directly to the public. It includes full auction access and allows you to maintain a retail lot. Cost: $300 application fee, $50,000 surety bond required (increases based on sales volume).

? Auto Broker License (Alone): An auto broker endorsement allows you to assist customers in buying or leasing vehicles for a fee, but it does NOT grant auction access unless paired with a wholesale or retail dealer license. Brokers facilitate transactions but don't take possession of inventory.

For auction access, you need either a wholesale or retail dealer license. Most new dealers starting with CarMax auctions choose the wholesale route initially because it has lower costs and fewer location requirements.

The Licensing Process: What You'll Need

Obtaining a California dealer license involves several steps. Here's the complete checklist:

1. Complete DMV-Certified Pre-Licensing Education

California law requires all dealer license applicants to complete a 6-hour pre-licensing education course from a DMV-certified provider. This course covers:

• California dealer licensing law and regulations
• Dealer business practices and compliance requirements
• DMV procedures and documentation
• Auction access and wholesale operations
• Consumer protection laws specific to California

At California Dealer Academy, we offer this course in two formats: self-paced online (complete anytime) or live webinar (interactive instruction with Q&A). Both formats are DMV-approved and include unlimited test retakes until you pass.

Register for your DMV-certified dealer license class here ?

2. Form Your Business Entity

You'll need a legal business structure registered with the California Secretary of State:

• Sole proprietorship
• Partnership
• Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp)
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)

You'll also need a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, even if you're a sole proprietor. This is required for the DMV application and for registering with auctions.

3. Secure a Business Location

California requires all dealers to have a verifiable business location. The good news: for wholesale dealers, this can be an office, a shared space, or even a home office in some cases. The location must meet these criteria:

• A physical address (not a P.O. Box)
• Zoned for commercial or business use
• Accessible for DMV inspection
• Has a working phone line
• Displays required signage during business hours

Retail dealers have additional requirements including display space and public access, but wholesale dealers have more flexibility. If you're just starting out and planning to source from CarMax auctions, a wholesale license with a simple office location is often the most practical path.

Need help finding a compliant location? Our California Dealer Playbook includes a complete location compliance guide with examples of what works for different license types.

4. Obtain Your Surety Bond

A surety bond is a financial guarantee that protects consumers and the state if you violate dealer laws. The bond amount depends on your license type:

• Wholesale dealer: $50,000 bond
• Retail dealer: $50,000 bond (increases based on volume)

You don't pay the full bond amount upfront. Instead, you pay an annual premium based on your personal credit, typically $300-$800 per year for most applicants. Bond companies will review your credit and provide a quote.

Learn more in our detailed guide: Surety Bonds for California Dealers

5. Get Your Seller's Permit

California requires dealers to have a seller's permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). This allows you to collect sales tax on vehicle sales. The application is free and can be completed online in about 15 minutes.

6. Submit Your DMV Application

Once you have your education certificate, business entity, location, bond, and seller's permit, you'll submit your dealer license application to the DMV's Occupational Licensing Unit. The primary form is:

• OL 248: Application for Occupational License (Wholesale Dealer)
• Or equivalent form for retail licenses

You'll also submit:

• Fingerprints for background check
• Pre-licensing education certificate
• Surety bond documentation
• Business formation documents
• Seller's permit
• Application fee ($175-$300 depending on license type)

7. Pass the DMV Inspection

After submitting your application, a DMV investigator will schedule an inspection of your business location. They'll verify that it meets all requirements: proper signage, office setup, phone line, zoning compliance.

If everything checks out, your license will be issued within 1-2 weeks after the inspection.

Timeline: How Long Does Licensing Take?

Here's a realistic timeline for getting your dealer license:

• Week 1-2: Complete pre-licensing education, form business entity, secure location
• Week 3-4: Obtain bond, get seller's permit, gather all documents
• Week 5-6: Submit DMV application, complete fingerprinting
• Week 7-8: DMV review and investigation
• Week 9-10: DMV inspection scheduled and completed
• Week 10-12: License issued

Total time: 8-12 weeks from start to licensed dealer. Some applicants move faster if they have all their documentation organized. Others take longer if they encounter issues with their location or bond.

Once you have your license number, you can immediately register for CarMax auctions and start sourcing inventory.

Ready to get started? The first step is your pre-licensing education. Register for our DMV-certified dealer license class ?

Step-by-Step: Registering for CarMax Auctions

Once you have your California dealer license, registering for CarMax auctions is straightforward. The entire process typically takes one business day, assuming you have all required documents ready.

Step 1: Gather Your Documentation

Before starting the registration process, make sure you have:

• California dealer license number - Your active, valid license issued by the DMV
• Business EIN - Your federal Employer Identification Number
• Seller's permit - From CDTFA
• Business formation documents - Articles of incorporation, LLC operating agreement, etc.
• Payment information - Bank account for ACH or credit card for buy fees
• Business contact information - Physical address, phone, email

CarMax will verify your dealer license directly with the California DMV. If your license is expired, suspended, or not in good standing, your registration will be rejected.

Step 2: Register Online

Visit CarMaxAuctions.com and click the "Register" button. You'll complete a dealer profile that includes:

• Business name and structure
• Business address and contact information
• Dealer license number and issuing state
• EIN and tax information
• Primary contact person

Upload the required documents through the registration portal. CarMax's system will verify your information with the DMV, typically within one business day.

Registration is free. There are no membership fees, annual dues, or upfront costs to register with CarMax auctions.

Step 3: Set Up Your Account

Once approved, you'll receive login credentials to access your CarMax Auctions account. Set up your profile:

Add Authorized Representatives: If you have employees or partners who will bid on behalf of your dealership, you can add them as authorized representatives. Find your invitation code in the "My Profile" section and share it with anyone you want to authorize. They'll register separately using your dealership's code.

Link Payment Methods: Connect your bank account for ACH payments or add a credit card. Payment is required within 24-48 hours of winning a vehicle, so having payment methods pre-loaded streamlines the process.

Connect Floor Plan Financing (Optional): If you're using NextGear Capital or AFC Financing for floor plan services, link your account through the "My Profile" page. This allows you to floor plan purchases directly through CarMax's system. To set this up with NextGear, call them at the number provided and provide your dealer name and NGC account number.

Download the Mobile App: Install the CarMax Auctions app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Log in with your credentials. The app provides full access to inventory, bidding, and account management from your phone.

Step 4: Browse Inventory

Inventory for upcoming auctions is available online three days before the sale date. This gives you time to research vehicles, review condition reports, and plan your bidding strategy.

Use Search Filters: The platform allows you to narrow inventory by make, model, year, mileage, price range, and location. If you're looking for specific vehicles to match your market, use these filters to save time.

Review Condition Reports: Click on any vehicle to view its detailed condition report, including:

• 125-point inspection results
• Known mechanical issues
• Title status and history
• Odometer reading and verification
• Structural or flood damage disclosure
• Multiple photos (exterior, interior, undercarriage)

Create Watchlists: Save vehicles you're interested in to your watchlist. You can also set up alerts for specific types of vehicles, so you're notified when matching inventory becomes available.

Calculate Your Numbers: Before bidding, know your maximum price. Factor in:

• Hammer price (your bid)
• Buy fees (visible on the platform)
• Transportation costs if applicable
• Estimated reconditioning costs
• Your desired profit margin

This all-in cost should guide your bidding ceiling. Don't get caught up in auction excitement and overpay.

Step 5: Start Bidding

CarMax offers three ways to participate in auctions:

Live In-Person Bidding: Attend the auction at any of the 9 California locations. You'll bid directly against other dealers on the auction floor and those participating via Simulcast. Arrive early to preview vehicles in person if possible.

Simulcast Bidding: Participate remotely in real-time through the CarMax Auctions website or mobile app. You'll see the live auction feed and bid alongside in-person dealers. This is the most convenient option for dealers who want to source from multiple locations without traveling.

Early Bids (Proxy Bids): Can't attend the live auction? Set a proxy bid up to your maximum price before the sale. The system will automatically bid for you during the live auction, increasing incrementally as needed up to your maximum. If no one outbids you, you win the vehicle. If someone bids higher, you're out.

Track Your Bids: Use the dashboard to monitor active bids, see which vehicles you've won, and review purchase history. If you win a vehicle, you'll receive a notification and invoice immediately.

Payment Deadline: Payment is due by close of business the day after the auction. Most dealers set up ACH auto-payment to avoid missing deadlines.

Need Help?

If you have questions during the registration process or need technical support, contact CarMax Dealer Auctions:

Phone: 1-888-804-6604
Website: CarMaxAuctions.com

The CarMax team can walk you through account setup, troubleshoot login issues, and answer questions about specific vehicles or auction procedures.

CarMax vs Other California Dealer Auctions

California dealers have access to several major auction platforms. Understanding how CarMax compares to Manheim, ADESA, and other options helps you decide where to focus your sourcing efforts.

CarMax Auction Advantages

• All CarMax-Owned Inventory: No consignment vehicles from other dealers. Every vehicle comes from CarMax's retail trade-in or off-lease channels. This means consistent sourcing and clear title.
• Transparent Condition Reports: 125-point inspections with detailed documentation available three days before auction. You're buying with full information.
• Free Registration and Membership: No annual fees, no upfront costs. Just register once and access all 59 CarMax auction locations nationwide.
• Straightforward Pricing: Buy fees are visible before you bid. No hidden costs or surprise charges.
• Dealer-Friendly Technology: Mobile-first platform with Simulcast, early bidding, watchlists, and alerts. Research and bid from anywhere.
• Nine Convenient California Locations: From San Diego to Sacramento, there's likely a CarMax auction near your market.

Manheim and ADESA: The Traditional Leaders

Manheim and ADESA are the largest wholesale auction networks in North America. They operate differently from CarMax:

Higher Volume: Manheim locations like Anaheim or Riverside run 300-1,000+ vehicles per sale. If you need to source high volume quickly, Manheim and ADESA offer more options.

Consignment Model: These auctions sell vehicles from multiple sources: dealer trades, lease returns, bank repos, rental fleets, and more. Quality varies significantly, so you need strong evaluation skills.

Physical Auction Lanes: While Simulcast is available, Manheim and ADESA are built around traditional auction lanes with fast-paced bidding. It's a different experience from CarMax's digital-first approach.

Auction Light System: Manheim uses a "light" system (green, yellow, red) to indicate vehicle condition and arbitration policies. CarMax sells everything "as-is" with condition reports instead.

Wider Vehicle Selection: Because they handle consignments, Manheim and ADESA often have more variety, including exotic vehicles, classic cars, and specialty equipment.

Online-Only Platforms: ACV, OPENLANE

Digital auction platforms like ACV Auctions and OPENLANE (formerly ADESA's online arm) are growing rapidly:

Fully Remote: No physical locations. All bidding is online, and vehicles are delivered to your location.

Condition Reports with AI: These platforms use technology to generate detailed condition reports, including 360-degree photos and AI-detected damage.

Faster Transactions: Buy and pay online, schedule delivery, and the vehicle arrives in days. No need to arrange pickup from an auction yard.

Lower Overhead: Because there are no physical lanes, fees can be competitive.

When to Use CarMax

CarMax auctions are ideal when you:

• Want consistent, documented inventory with minimal surprises
• Value transparency and detailed condition information
• Prefer researching vehicles online before bidding
• Are building a quality-focused inventory for retail customers
• Want the flexibility of Simulcast bidding without traveling
• Are a newer dealer learning auction buying

When to Use Manheim or ADESA

Traditional auctions work better when you:

• Need high volume quickly to stock a large lot
• Want the widest possible selection of vehicles
• Have experience evaluating vehicles with varying conditions
• Are looking for specialty, exotic, or classic vehicles
• Prefer the traditional auction lane experience

The Best Strategy: Diversify Your Sources

Most successful California dealers don't rely on a single auction platform. They register with multiple sources:

• CarMax: For transparent, documented inventory
• Manheim/ADESA: For high volume and variety
• ACV/OPENLANE: For remote sourcing and delivery
• Copart/IAA: For salvage and rebuild opportunities (if you have the expertise)

Your California dealer license gives you access to all of them. The registration process is similar across platforms, and there's no penalty for being registered with multiple auctions.

Start with one platform to learn the process, then expand as you gain experience. Many dealers begin with CarMax because of its transparency and then add Manheim or ADESA as their volume grows.

Want a complete comparison of all California auction options? Check out our California Auction Locations Guide in the Dealer Playbook.

Your Action Plan: From Zero to Bidding at CarMax Auctions

You now understand what CarMax auctions offer, the licensing requirements, and the registration process. Here's your step-by-step roadmap to turn this knowledge into action.

Week 1-2: Start Your Licensing Process

Day 1-2: Register for Your Pre-Licensing Education

This is your critical first step. California law requires 6 hours of DMV-certified education before you can apply for a dealer license. Our course covers licensing law, dealer operations, compliance, and auction access strategies.

Register for your dealer license class here ?

Choose self-paced online (complete anytime) or live webinar (scheduled instruction with Q&A). Both formats include unlimited test retakes and result in the same DMV-approved certificate.

Day 3-7: Form Your Business Entity

Register your business with the California Secretary of State. Choose your business structure (LLC is most common for new dealers) and obtain your federal EIN from the IRS. Both can be completed online.

Day 8-14: Secure Your Business Location

Find a location that meets DMV requirements. For wholesale dealers, this can be a simple office. Make sure it's zoned for commercial use and has a working phone line. Sign a lease or provide proof of ownership.

Week 3-6: Complete Requirements and Apply

Week 3: Finish Your Pre-Licensing Course

Complete the course and pass the final exam. You'll receive your certificate immediately upon passing. This certificate is required for your DMV application and is valid for one year.

Week 4: Obtain Your Surety Bond

Apply for a $50,000 surety bond through a bond company. They'll review your credit and provide a quote (typically $300-$800 annually for most applicants). Once approved, you'll receive bond documentation for your DMV application.

Need help? Our Dealer Playbook includes a guide to surety bonds and recommended providers.

Week 5: Get Your Seller's Permit

Apply online through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). This is free and takes about 15 minutes. You'll receive your permit within a few days.

Week 6: Submit Your DMV Application

Complete the OL 248 form (for wholesale licenses) or the appropriate form for your license type. Gather all documents:

• Pre-licensing certificate
• Surety bond documentation
• Business formation documents
• Seller's permit
• Location lease or ownership proof
• Application fee ($175-$300)

Submit everything to the DMV Occupational Licensing Unit. You'll also complete fingerprinting for your background check (can be done at Live Scan locations).

Week 7-10: DMV Review and Inspection

Week 7-8: DMV Processing

The DMV will review your application and conduct a background investigation. Processing time varies but typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Week 9-10: Location Inspection

A DMV investigator will schedule an inspection of your business location. They'll verify:

• Address matches your application
• Location meets zoning requirements
• Required signage is posted
• Phone line is active
• Office is accessible during stated business hours

If everything passes, your license will be issued within 1-2 weeks.

Week 11+: Register for Auctions and Start Sourcing

Immediately After License Issuance:

1. Register with CarMax Auctions (1 business day)
   • Visit CarMaxAuctions.com
   • Complete registration with your license number
   • Upload required documents
   • Set up payment methods
2. Download the Mobile App
   • Install from App Store or Google Play
   • Log in and familiarize yourself with features
   • Set up alerts for vehicles you want
3. Research Upcoming Inventory
   • Browse vehicles 3 days before auction
   • Review condition reports
   • Create watchlists
   • Calculate your all-in costs
4. Attend Your First Auction
   • Start with 1-2 vehicles to learn the process
   • Stick to your maximum prices
   • Use Simulcast if you prefer bidding remotely
5. Arrange Payment and Pickup
   • Pay within 24-48 hours
   • Schedule pickup or delivery
   • Plan reconditioning before resale

Optional: Set Up Floor Plan Financing

If you want to use floor plan financing to acquire vehicles without tying up all your capital, apply with NextGear Capital or AFC Financing. Once approved, link your account to CarMax auctions through your profile settings.

Resources to Guide You

Throughout this process, use these resources from California Dealer Academy:

• California Dealer Playbook - Step-by-step guides covering every aspect of dealer licensing, business setup, and auction access
• Auction Access Guide - Platform-by-platform registration instructions for CarMax, Manheim, ADESA, and more
• Dealer License Class - DMV-certified pre-licensing education with live support

Have questions along the way? Call us at 888.600.6433 or text 760.681.1757. We help California dealers navigate the licensing process every day.

Start Your Path to CarMax Auction Access Today

CarMax dealer auctions represent one of the most transparent, accessible wholesale inventory sources available to California dealers. With 9 locations across the state, weekly sales, free registration, and a dealer-friendly digital platform, CarMax has built a reputation for making wholesale sourcing straightforward.

But access begins with your California dealer license.

The licensing process takes 8-12 weeks from start to finish. If you're serious about accessing CarMax auctions and building a dealership, the time to start is now. Every week you wait is another week of inventory opportunities passing by.

Here's what to do next:

Step 1: Complete Your Pre-Licensing Education

California law requires 6 hours of DMV-certified education before you can apply for a dealer license. This course covers everything you need to know about licensing requirements, dealer operations, compliance, and auction access.

Our course includes:

• DMV-approved curriculum covering all licensing requirements
• Choice of self-paced online or live webinar format
• Unlimited test retakes until you pass
• Immediate certificate upon completion
• Real-world guidance on auction sourcing and dealer operations
• Support from experienced dealer educators

Register for Your Dealer License Class ?

Step 2: Use the California Dealer Playbook

Our free Dealer Playbook is your complete roadmap from licensing to operating a successful dealership. It covers:

• Step-by-step licensing process
• Business formation and setup
• Location requirements and compliance
• Auction registration guides for all major platforms
• DMV application and inspection preparation
• Ongoing compliance and record-keeping

Access the California Dealer Playbook (Free) ?

Step 3: Get Support When You Need It

Navigating the dealer licensing process can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. We've helped thousands of California dealers get licensed and access auctions. If you have questions or need guidance, we're here to help.

Contact California Dealer Academy:

• Call: 888.600.6433
• Text: 760.681.1757
• Email: Through our contact page

Local Offices:

• Los Angeles: 213.497.0955
• Inland Empire: 951.963.3223
• San Diego: 858.210.7990
• Sacramento: 916.610.3169
• San Jose: 415.582.0108
• Fresno: 559.508.8008

The Opportunity Is Real

Thousands of California dealers source inventory from CarMax auctions every week. They're building businesses, stocking lots, and serving customers with quality vehicles purchased at wholesale prices. The platform is there. The inventory is available. The only thing standing between you and auction access is your dealer license.

Take the first step today.

Start Your Dealer License Class Now