Yes, if you're someone the regulation allows and the car belongs to the dealership. Under 13 CCR §201.00, the dealership's owners and active managers can drive with dealer plates for any purpose, other licensed drivers can drive with one of those people in the car, employees can drive only within the course of their job, and a prospective buyer can test drive for up to seven days. The plates can only go on vehicles the dealer owns or lawfully possesses, and any use the regulation doesn't list is prohibited.
Educational information only. This article is not legal advice.
In this article
Who can drive, and for what
| Driver | Allowed use | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Sole owner, general partner, LLC manager, or a corporate officer or director active in the business | Any purpose | 13 CCR §201.00(b) |
| General, business or sales manager | Any purpose, but only when no one in the row above is available | §201.00(b) |
| Any licensed driver with one of the people above in the car | Any purpose | §201.00(c) |
| A household member of a qualifying person, driving alone | Only to pick up or drop off that person | §201.00(c)(1) |
| Licensed employee | Only within the course and scope of employment | §201.00(d) |
| Any licensed driver at an approved special event | With a letter of authorization | §201.00(e) |
| Prospective buyer or lessee | Test drive of up to 7 days | §201.00(f); VC §11715(a) |
Test drives
- Up to seven days for a prospective buyer or lessee.
- If no salesperson rides along, the driver must carry a letter of authorization that identifies the vehicle, the duration and the authorized drivers (§201.00(f)).
- Keep the special plate's registration card, or a copy, with the vehicle (VC §11715(f)).
What's not allowed
- Using the plate on a vehicle the dealer doesn't own or lawfully possess (§201.00(a))
- Using it on the dealer's work or service vehicles, or on most dealer-leased vehicles (VC §11715(d))
- Lending it to friends or family for personal use when they don't qualify above
- Any use not expressly permitted. The regulation says it "is prohibited" (§201.00(i))
From experience (Garrett Eddings, professional opinion): Treat dealer plates like part of your license, because they are. Misusing them is an easy way to put that license on DMV's radar.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use dealer plates on my personal car?
Only if the car is dealer inventory you own or lawfully possess and you're a qualifying owner or manager. A personally registered car that isn't inventory isn't covered.
Can a customer drive a car on dealer plates?
Yes, for a test drive of up to seven days, with a letter of authorization if no salesperson is in the car.
Can an employee take a car home on dealer plates?
Only if driving it is within the course and scope of their job. Personal use isn't allowed for employees.
Related questions
- What does DLR mean on a license plate?
- Do dealerships give you license plates in California?
- What does a dealer license let you do?
- Back to the California Dealer License FAQ
Next step: Dealer compliance guide
Resources
- 13 CCR §201.00, use of dealer special plates (Opens in new window)
- California Vehicle Code §11715 (Opens in new window)
- DMV manual: Special dealer plates (Opens in new window)
Sources: 13 CCR §201.00(a)–(i) · Vehicle Code §11715(a), (d) and (f). Verified 2026-10-16.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Check the current regulation and DMV guidance. The instructor note reflects one instructor's professional opinion.