Sign and license display requirements
As an automotive repair dealer, you must follow sign and license display requirements. These requirements show consumers your business is licensed and authorized to perform repairs. The signs you need to display depend on the license(s) your business holds.
Required signs
| Sign | Posting requirement | Dimensions | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive repair dealer | Visible to customers | 24" x 26" | BPC § 9884.17 CCR §§ 3351.3, 3351.4 |
| For Smog Check stations: Test-and-repair / Decal Test-only / Decal Repair-only / Decal STAR certified |
Outside, visible to the public | 24" x 30" (sign) 24" x 5 ¼" (decal) |
CCR §§ 3340.22, 3392.2 |
| For Smog Check stations: Notice to Consumers / Español |
Visible to customers | BAR-provided | HSC § 44017.3 CCR § 3340.22.2 |
| Vehicle safety systems | Outside, visible to the public | 24" x 30" | CCR §§ 3312.2, 3313.1 |
BPC refers to Business and Professions Code. HSC refers to Health and Safety Code. CCR refers to California Code of Regulations.
Additional requirements for mobile automotive repair dealers
Automotive repair dealer sign: Provide a paper copy of the sign with each work order.
On your vehicle: On each vehicle used for repairs, include your:
Business name
License (registration) number
Telephone number
Print in a visible location in at least 72 point font (or three-quarters of an inch in height and width).
In your advertising: Online ads must include your:
Business name
License (registration) number
Telephone number
Reference: CCR §§ 3351.3, 3351.7.3
Where to get signs
Purchase signs from your preferred sign vendor.
The Notice to Consumers sign is provided by BAR at no charge. To request a replacement, contact BAR Field Office Support.
Licenses
Display requirements
Post your automotive repair dealer license and any station license(s). Stations must also post inspector and technician licenses.
Display licenses in an area easily visible to customers.
Keep licenses under glass or other transparent cover.
Reference: CCR §§ 3312.2(b), 3340.15(c), 3351.3(a)(1)