In California, your seller registration number is your seller's permit number, the account number CDTFA issues when you register to sell. As a dealer you'll write it on resale certificates when you buy vehicles for resale, and auctions and suppliers ask for it before they'll sell to you tax-free.
Educational information only. This article is not legal or financial advice.
In this article
- Where you'll use it
- Where to find it
- What a valid resale certificate needs
- Frequently asked questions
Where you'll use it
| Where | Why |
|---|---|
| Resale certificate (CDTFA-230) | The certificate must show your seller's permit number to buy for resale without paying sales tax |
| Auction dealer packets | Auctions ask for a copy of your seller's permit with your dealer license, bond information and W-9 |
| Your DMV application | A seller's permit is part of setting up the dealership |
| Supplier accounts | Parts and forms suppliers use it to sell to you for resale |
Where to find it
- On your seller's permit, which CDTFA issues when you register.
- In your CDTFA online services account.
To verify someone else's permit, such as a dealer buying from you for resale, use CDTFA's "Verify a permit, license, or account" tool online. You can also call CDTFA's automated line at 1-888-225-5263, available 24 hours a day. You'll need the permit number.
What a valid resale certificate needs
- The buyer's business name and address
- The buyer's seller's permit number, or why they aren't required to hold one
- A description of the property
- The words "for resale"
- The date
- The buyer's signature (or an employee's or authorized representative's)
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify a California seller's permit?
Use CDTFA's online Verify a permit, license, or account tool, or call CDTFA's automated line at 1-888-225-5263, available 24 hours a day. You need the permit number.
Is a seller registration number the same as a seller's permit number?
Yes. It's the account number on the seller's permit CDTFA issues you.
Can I use someone else's seller's permit number?
No. A resale certificate must carry your own valid seller's permit number.
Related questions
- Do you need a seller's permit to sell cars online?
- How do I get a license to buy at auction?
- How much does a dealer license cost?
- Back to the California Dealer License FAQ
Next step: Seller's permit guide for dealers · California dealer auctions
Resources
- CDTFA: Permits & Licenses (Opens in new window) (verify a permit)
- CDTFA Publication 103, Sales for Resale (Opens in new window)
Sources: CDTFA Publication 103: valid resale certificates (Opens in new window) (certificate elements, CDTFA-230, verification line) · CDTFA: Permits & Licenses (Opens in new window). Verified 2026-10-16.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax or financial advice.