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Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) and Station Licensing
In This Section
This section helps you understand the requirements for the following licenses and registrations, and how to apply for or renew them.
1) Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) Registration
In order to perform vehicle repairs in California, you must have a current ARD Registration with the Bureau of Automotive Repair.
To begin, click the statement that best describes your applicant status:
2) Smog Check Station
Warning: To license your shop as a Smog Check station, you must have a valid ARD registration. You may submit the forms together to apply for both an ARD registration and a Smog Check Station License at the same time. However, your ARD application must be issued BEFORE proceeding with the Smog Check station license application.
Please click on the statement that best describes your applicant status:
- I am a first-time applicant for a Smog Check station license
- I am renewing my station's Smog Check station license
- I have a Smog Check station license and am applying for a Gold Shield Station certificate
Warning: BAR does not accept applications to become a Referee Center. Referee Centers are established by BAR according to specific criteria, and are located primarily at California Community Colleges throughout the state. Here is the Referee Center Fact Sheet for more information about Referee Centers.
3) Brake Station or Lamp Station
Warning: To license your shop as a Brake and/or Lamp Station, you must have a valid ARD registration. You may submit the forms together to apply for both an ARD registration and a Brake and/or Lamp Station License at the same time. However, your ARD application must be issued BEFORE proceeding with the Brake and/or Lamp Station License application.
To begin, click the statement that best describes your applicant status:
