December 16th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
The automotive retail landscape has changed dramatically. Carvana's vending machines, CarMax's no-haggle pricing, and a flood of online-first dealers have transformed how consumers shop for cars. For independent California dealers, it's easy to...
Posted in: Education
September 29th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Cars and Bids vs. Traditional Auto Auctions: What California Dealers Need to Know By Garrett Eddings · Resident Auction Expert, California Dealer Academy An educational opinion-piece on when to use Cars...
Posted in: Education
September 20th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
A practical, California-focused guide to Auction Access—what it is, how to qualify, the real-world benefits, common pitfalls, and how our live webinar training shows you exactly how to buy from auction. Opinion & Educational Disclaimer...
Posted in: Education
August 21st, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
If you’re opening or operating a dealership in California, a surety bond isn’t just a box to check—it’s a core compliance requirement that protects consumers and keeps your license in good standing. This guide explains what the bond is, who needs it,...
Posted in: Education
August 6th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
You Got Your California Dealer Certificate...Now What? A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Dealership Completing your California DMV-approved dealer education course and passing the exam is a huge milestone. You’ve invested the time,...
Posted in: Education
April 17th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Does a Criminal Record Automatically Disqualify You? No, having a misdemeanor or felony does not automatically disqualify you from getting a dealer license in California. The DMV evaluates each application on a case-by-case basis. However, the type of...
Posted in: Education
April 14th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
If you're looking to become a licensed car dealer in California, you're in the right place. At California Dealer Academy, we specialize in helping aspiring dealers navigate the licensing process with confidence and ease. Below, we’ve answered the...
Posted in: Education
April 8th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Tariffs on the Rise: What California Car Dealers Need to Know Automotive tariffs — import taxes placed on vehicles and vehicle parts — are making headlines again, and California, with its massive car market and reliance on imported vehicles, is likely...
Posted in: Education
April 7th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Want to Start a Dealership in California? Let Us Handle Everything. Starting a used car dealership in California is exciting — but let’s be real: it’s also complicated, time-consuming, and loaded with paperwork, inspections, and compliance...
Posted in: Education
March 7th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Insights from California Dealer Academy's 20+ Years of Experience At California Dealer Academy, we've helped hundreds of dealers navigate the complex landscape of California's automotive industry since 2008. One of the most common questions our founder,...
Posted in: Education
February 3rd, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Manheim is one of the largest wholesale auto auction companies in the world, offering California auto dealers a vast marketplace to buy and sell vehicles efficiently. Registering with Manheim opens doors to thousands of vehicles weekly, exclusive dealer...
Posted in: Education
January 15th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Insurance Auto Auctions (IAA) and Copart are two of the largest auto auction platforms specializing in salvage, clean-title, and used vehicles. For California dealers, these platforms present unique opportunities to diversify inventory, maximize profits,...
Posted in: Education
December 20th, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
Getting a dealer license without a lot in California can be a complex process, but it's achievable with the right knowledge and preparation. This guide will walk you through the steps involved in obtaining a dealer license without a physical lot...
Posted in: Education
July 15th, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
The car market in July 2024 presents a mixed landscape for both new and used vehicles. Here are some key insights: New Car Market Prices and Inventory: The average price for new cars is around $49,000, having seen a slight decrease of 1% compared...
Posted in: Education
May 7th, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
Dealer plates, also known as special plates or temporary plates, play a crucial role in the automotive industry, especially in California. They serve multiple purposes, from facilitating test drives to legalizing the temporary use of vehicles that are...
Posted in: Education
April 2nd, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
To obtain a dealer's license from the California DMV, you'll typically need to pass a dealer education program and a test. The DMV offers practice tests specifically tailored for dealer applicants to help prepare for the exam. These practice tests cover...
Posted in: Education
March 14th, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
In the vibrant landscape of California's automotive industry, retail car dealerships play a pivotal role. These establishments, governed by specific regulations and requirements, are essential for the buying and selling of vehicles within the state....
Posted in: Education
February 9th, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
Car dealer auctions play a pivotal role in the automotive industry, offering a dynamic marketplace where dealers can buy and sell vehicles to meet the demands of their customers. In California, a state known for its vibrant automotive culture, dealer...
Posted in: Education
February 2nd, 2024 by Garrett Eddings
The Evolution of Car Dealer Training in California: Navigating Compliance and Customer Service California, known for its vast automotive industry, has long been a hub for car dealerships. With the dynamic landscape of the automobile market, the role of...
Posted in: Education