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 13th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
In California, an Auto Broker License allows you to assist customers in buying or leasing vehicles for a fee, without carrying your own retail inventory. Unlike a wholesale or standard retail dealer, an auto broker acts as a professional intermediary—sourcing...
Posted in: Education
August 12th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as financial or legal advice. Every business situation is different, and your specific costs may vary. Please consult with a qualified advisor for decisions related to business...
Posted in: Education
August 12th, 2025 by Garrett Eddings
In California, there isn't a separate "auction license" for buyers. To access dealer-only auctions (Manheim, Adesa, etc.), you obtain a California motor vehicle dealer license—either Wholesale-Only or Retail (Used Dealer). Your auction license cost...
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