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California Dealer Academy: Empowering Aspiring Auto Dealers Across California

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USA News June 03, 2025
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California Dealer Academy: Empowering Aspiring Auto Dealers Across California
NATIONWIDE - JUNE 2025 - (USAnews.com) — California Dealer Academy, a trusted resource for aspiring auto dealers, has been offering unmatched expertise and support to help individuals navigate the complexities of launching and operating dealerships in California since its inception in 2014. Founded by Garrett Eddings, an experienced professional with more than two decades in the automotive industry, the academy has positioned itself as a comprehensive launchpad for new auto dealers. This comprehensive approach goes far beyond basic licensing, providing real-world training, hands-on mentorship, and full dealership setup services designed to ensure long-term success and compliance with California’s stringent regulations. Mission and Value: A Pathway to Success California Dealer Academy was born out of a genuine understanding of the unique challenges faced by auto dealers in California. With a mission to help new dealers not only pass their licensing exams but also launch and operate compliant, profitable businesses, the academy stands out in a crowded field of pre-licensing courses. Through its tailored curriculum, practical support, and mentorship, the academy aims to equip aspiring dealers with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the competitive world of automotive sales. “As a business owner, I understand the hurdles entrepreneurs face. Building a dealership from scratch requires more than just knowledge—it requires a dedicated partner who can guide you through every step of the process,” said Garrett Eddings, founder of California Dealer Academy. “Our academy is designed to offer not only a fast track to licensing but also the critical mentorship and resources that set our students up for long-term success.” Real-World Expertise at the Core The foundation of California Dealer Academy’s curriculum is its strong emphasis on real-world experience. Led by Garrett Eddings, who has worked in various dealership roles and consulting capacities for years, the academy leverages an invaluable combination of hands-on industry experience and formal education. Garrett's professional journey began as a tire technician at 16, and from there, he worked as a salesperson before opening his own dealership in 2012. After gaining experience as a trainer and consultant for a well-known dealer training company, he eventually launched his own business, bringing decades of dealership management, consulting, and auction expertise to California Dealer Academy. Garrett’s hands-on experience is a key differentiator for the academy. He and his team don’t just provide theoretical knowledge but offer practical insights gained from years of working with dealerships across California. This unique expertise ensures that all materials and guidance are tailored specifically to the challenges and opportunities found in the California auto market. Turnkey Dealer Setup: Comprehensive Support at Every Stage California Dealer Academy takes pride in offering a complete, end-to-end solution for aspiring dealers. From the moment students engage with the academy, they gain access to a wide range of resources that go beyond typical licensing courses. The academy assists students with all aspects of starting their dealership, including:
  • Business Formation: Guidance through every aspect of setting up a legal business entity, including registration, taxes, and compliance with California state regulations.
  • Dealer Bonding and Insurance: Critical assistance in securing the necessary bonding and insurance to meet DMV and other legal requirements.
  • DMV Paperwork: Step-by-step support with all DMV filings, ensuring that students are fully compliant with the state’s regulatory standards.
  • Auction Access: Insight into the often-overlooked world of dealer-only vehicle auctions, which is essential for establishing a successful dealership.
  • Signage and Operational Procedures: Assistance with signage requirements, as well as practical tools to help streamline dealership operations and avoid common mistakes that could result in legal issues.
This comprehensive support structure is designed to give new dealers a true head start, empowering them with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive market. California-Focused Training and Post-License Mentorship One of the defining features of California Dealer Academy is its unwavering commitment to California-specific training. Given the state’s unique regulatory landscape, it’s vital for dealers to fully understand the intricacies of local DMV requirements, tax laws, and business practices. All of California Dealer Academy’s coursework, training materials, and support systems are designed to meet these specific needs. “We focus 100% on California,” said Garrett. “There are plenty of generic, nationwide training programs out there, but our approach is unique. Everything we do is tailored to the specific demands of California’s DMV and regulatory system.” The commitment to California’s requirements extends beyond licensing. Even after students become licensed auto dealers, California Dealer Academy provides ongoing mentorship to ensure that they remain compliant with evolving regulations. This ongoing support includes compliance coaching, renewals, and expert guidance on maintaining a profitable and legal dealership. Proven Success: Dealer Success Outcomes California Dealer Academy’s impact is best demonstrated by the success of its graduates. Many students have successfully launched their own dealerships—both retail and wholesale—using the academy’s robust curriculum and resources. Several graduates have gone on to run thriving, multi-unit dealerships, leveraging their newfound knowledge and skills to build profitable, sustainable businesses. “Our students don’t just pass their exams; they build successful dealerships,” said Garrett. “Many of our graduates now have multiple locations, and they continue to lean on our resources and mentorship as they grow their businesses.” By providing practical, real-world training and ongoing mentorship, California Dealer Academy helps aspiring auto dealers turn their dreams into a reality. The academy’s students benefit from access to exclusive partnerships with industry giants such as Manheim, Adesa, and ACV, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to succeed in the automotive market. What Sets California Dealer Academy Apart? While other dealer schools may only focus on the licensing process, California Dealer Academy takes a more comprehensive approach. The academy’s goal is to help students not only pass their exams but also set up and run successful, compliant businesses that stand the test of time. Several factors set California Dealer Academy apart from its competitors:
  • Hands-On, Real-World Experience: The academy’s founders and instructors bring decades of practical dealership experience to the table, providing students with insights that are directly applicable to the California auto industry.
  • End-to-End Dealer Setup Support: California Dealer Academy offers a complete range of services, from business formation to auction access and compliance assistance, ensuring that students are fully prepared to launch their dealerships.
  • Ongoing Mentorship: After licensing, the academy continues to support students through mentorship, compliance coaching, and access to valuable resources.
  • Exclusive Partnerships: Students gain access to key industry partnerships, including dealer-only auctions, vendor programs, and operational tools that streamline dealership operations.
For anyone serious about becoming an auto dealer in California, California Dealer Academy provides the education, resources, and mentorship necessary to succeed. Connect with California Dealer Academy To learn more about California Dealer Academy’s programs or to get started on the path to becoming a licensed auto dealer, visit www.CaliforniaDealerAcademy.com or explore their YouTube Channel for additional content and insights.Additional content and insights are available on the academy’s YouTube channel. Inquiries can also be made via phone at 916-610-3169.
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