How to get licensed

Automotive repair dealer

  1. Review the laws and regulations. Understanding the requirements now can help you avoid compliance issues later.

  2. Gather required information and documents. Review the application requirements and gather your documents before starting your application.

  3. Apply online. Complete your application through BAR’s online system. After you submit your application, we'll send instructions to pay the application fee. We cannot process your application until the fee is paid.

  4. Respond to any requests from BAR. We may contact you if we need more information or if something is missing from your application. Respond as soon as possible to avoid delays. If you don’t respond, your application may be denied.

  5. Print and display your license. Once we approve your application, BAR will issue your license. You can print your license online. Post your license and automotive repair dealer sign at your business. See display requirements for more information.

Station

  1. Review the laws and regulations. Understanding the requirements now can help you avoid compliance issues later.

  2. Download the manual. Download the manual for your station type. It includes equipment requirements, procedures, and standards for performing inspections.

  3. Complete the station checklist. Use the station checklist to confirm you have all required equipment, tools, and reference materials. Make sure everything is available and all equipment is calibrated before you apply.

  4. Gather required information and documents. Review the application requirements and gather your documents before starting your application.

  5. Apply online. Complete your application through BAR’s online system. After you submit your application, we'll send instructions to pay the application fee. We cannot process your application until the fee is paid.

  6. Respond to any requests from BAR. We may contact you if we need more information or if something is missing from your application. Respond as soon as possible to avoid delays. If you don’t respond, your application may be denied.

  7. Complete the Cal-VIS setup. Register and download the California Vehicle Inspection System (Cal-VIS) software to your BAR-OIS or BAR-SIS. Then enroll and complete the station participation agreement through the Cal-VIS enrollment and billing portal. After setup, you can buy certificates through your inspection system.

  8. Pass a station inspection. If we approve your application, BAR will schedule an onsite inspection. We will confirm that you meet all requirements to operate as a licensed station. We will also check that all equipment, tools, and materials are available and ready for use.

  9. Print and display your license. Once your station passes inspection, BAR will issue your license. You can print your license online. Post your license and required signs at your business. See display requirements for more information.

Inspector or technician

  1. Meet the license qualifications. Before applying, make sure you meet the education, training, and experience requirements:

  2. Gather required information and documents. Review the application requirements and gather your documents before starting your application.

  3. Apply online. Complete your application through BAR’s online system. After you submit your application, we'll send instructions to pay the application fee. We cannot process your application until the fee is paid.

  4. Respond to any requests from BAR. We may contact you if we need more information or if something is missing from your application. Respond as soon as possible to avoid delays. If you don’t respond, your application may be denied.

  5. Pass the exam. If we approve your application, the exam contractor will contact you to schedule your exam. Use the exam handbook to prepare:

  6. Print your license. Once you pass the exam, BAR will issue your license. You can print your license online.

  7. Complete biometric enrollment. Smog Check inspectors and vehicle safety systems technicians must complete biometric enrollment. Once enrolled, you can perform BAR-OIS or BAR-SIS inspections.