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What Is The DMV California Dealer Test Like?

If you are looking to get your dealer licensed from the state of California, then you will need to take and pass the California dealer test administered by the state’s DMV. Therefore, you may be wondering what the test is like. Here, we will give you an overview of what to expect. This can help better prepare you to pass the test without any issues. 

Before Taking The Test

Before you take the test, you will need to attend a dealer education program. After you have finished attending the program, you will have three attempts to pass the dealer test. If you fail, you will have to wait for one week and pay $16 before you can take the test. If you fail to pass the third test, then you will have to re-take the dealer education program before you can receive another three attempts. 

What Is the Test Like? 

The DMV dealer test is a 40-question multiple-choice test. You will need to answer at least 28 of the 40 questions to secure a score of 70% or higher to pass the test. 

True-False Question

When a Dealer sells a Lemon Law buyback vehicle, they must notify the buyer on letter-size paper of the following:

  • The year, make, model, and vehicle identification number
  • That the vehicle title is marked “Lemon Law Buyback”
  • The nature of each nonconformity reported by the vehicle’s original buyer or lessee
  • Any repairs made to the vehicle in an attempt to correct each nonconformity

Answer choices:

  • True
  • False

One Answer Questions

What is the most that a dealer can charge for a smog test?

Answer choices:

  • $25
  • $50
  • $75
  • $100

Multiple Answer Questions 

Who may operate a vehicle with special plates with limitations?

Answer choices:

  • Employees of a Dealer when they are acting within and scope of their employment
  •  A prospective buyer or lessee, to test drive a vehicle (up to seven days)
  • A mechanic who is working on the vehicle  
  •  Employees picking up lunch for other employees

As you can see, the test is not that hard if you have the right dealer education. Overall, the questions will pertain to the things that you need to know to operate your dealership in the state of California. After taking a few practice tests, you should be able to pass on your first try. 

Preparing Yourself for the California Dealer Test 

The best way to prepare for the California dealer test is to make sure you go to the right dealer education program. The right program will give you a full overview of what you can expect during the test. Some education programs such as Redline Dealer Education even offer a practice test to help you prepare. 

These multiple-choice questions include true-false answer options, questions that require only one answer, and questions that will require multiple correct answers.

Start Your New Career Today!

Redline Dealer Education has been providing California DMV approved used car dealer training since 2018.


We are dedicated to providing the best Dealer Education and Consulting Services in California,
and provide everything you need to not only complete your DMV dealer licensing exam,
but to ensure you’re successful in your new career.