California DMV mandates online payments for industry business customers

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced a shift in how industry business customers, such as registration services and vehicle dealerships, will conduct certain transactions. These customers, who currently perform "posting fees" at Industry Business Centers (IBC) or other DMV offices, will now be required to use the DMV's Vehicle Industry Services online channel.

The option to post fees online was introduced in October 2023. Positive outcomes and customer feedback have led to this change becoming mandatory for those who would otherwise visit an IBC or DMV office. The online service is available around the clock, providing a quick and convenient alternative that eliminates the need for an office visit. Currently, about 5,000 posting fee transactions are completed in-person each month at DMV offices.

By using the online system for recent vehicle sales, industry customers can avoid penalties and administrative service fees. In addition to posting fees, they can also submit dismantled vehicle applications and new report of sale applications for trailers and off-highway vehicles without being restricted by regular business hours.

The DMV has been expanding its digital services significantly. Most tasks do not require visiting an office anymore, including simple self-service transactions that are no longer offered on-site. The department encourages all customers to utilize its online services and other channels for completing transactions like driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Customers can also access the Service Advisor on the DMV website to explore their options for completing various tasks.

For those interested in paperless vehicle registration and driver's license renewal notices, signing up requires creating a secure online account at dmv.ca.gov.