Are you an expert in the automotive industry looking to share your knowledge and shape the future of car dealerships? Starting a Car Dealership Training Program could be your ideal path. As the automotive landscape evolves, the demand for highly trained and knowledgeable dealership staff is greater than ever. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to establish your own car dealership training program, focusing on meeting regulatory requirements and creating a valuable learning experience.
Understanding the Licensing Requirements for Car Dealership Training Programs
Before you begin developing your curriculum, it’s crucial to understand the regulatory framework governing car dealership training programs. In Florida, for example, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) sets specific standards that aspiring training schools must meet. These regulations are in place to ensure quality education for future car dealers and maintain ethical business practices within the industry.
Florida Statutes and Training Hours
Florida Statute Section 320.27(4)(b) outlines the maximum training hours for dealer training schools. The statute specifies that required FLHSMV topics should not exceed eight hours. An additional 24 hours are permitted for subjects related to other regulatory agencies and further requirements detailed within this section. This structured approach ensures that training is focused and efficient, covering all critical areas without unnecessary length.
Curriculum Approval Process
A key aspect of becoming a licensed car dealership training program is getting your curriculum approved. The FLHSMV requires a thorough review of your proposed curriculum or textbook to ensure it meets their standards. This review process is designed to guarantee that training programs cover all necessary topics, from legal compliance to best business practices. For subjects falling under the jurisdiction of other regulatory bodies, approval from those agencies is also mandatory.
Navigating the Application Process
Becoming a licensed car dealership training school involves a formal application process with the FLHSMV. Here’s what you need to do:
Required Forms and Submission
To initiate your application, you must complete and submit the necessary forms to the FLHSMV. Crucially, your proposed school curriculum or textbook must accompany these forms. Submit your application package to the following address for review and approval:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Dealer License Section
Bureau of Dealer Services
2900 Apalachee Parkway
Neil Kirkman Building, Room A 312 MS 65
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Contacting the Dealer License Section
For any specific questions or clarifications regarding the application process, the FLHSMV Dealer License Section is available to assist you. You can contact a representative directly at 850-617-3003 (and press 1). They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure you have all the information needed for a successful application.
Types of Car Dealership Training Programs Offered
Car dealership training programs generally fall into two main categories, each serving a distinct purpose in the professional development of car dealers:
Pre-Licensing Courses for Aspiring Dealers
Pre-licensing courses are mandatory for all individuals seeking a car dealer license. These comprehensive programs cover essential topics such as:
- Vehicle Titling and Registration: Understanding the legal processes involved in vehicle ownership transfer.
- Laws on Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices: Ensuring ethical and compliant sales and advertising methods.
- Financing Regulations for Buy-Here/Pay-Here Operations: Specific legal requirements for dealerships offering in-house financing.
- Good Business Practices: Broader principles of effective and ethical dealership management, as defined by the FLHSMV.
Continuing Education for Licensed Independent Dealers
Continuing education is specifically required for currently licensed independent motor vehicle dealers. These courses ensure that dealers stay updated on the latest industry changes and legal requirements. The curriculum typically includes:
- Legal and Legislative Issues (at least two hours): Updates on relevant laws and regulations affecting dealerships.
- FLHSMV Issues (one hour): Specific updates and requirements from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
- Relevant Motor Vehicle Industry Topics (five hours): Broader industry trends, best practices, and emerging challenges.
Becoming an Approved Car Dealership Training School
Once your curriculum is submitted, the FLHSMV will conduct a thorough review. If any revisions are needed to meet their standards, you will receive feedback and be required to make the necessary corrections. After all adjustments are made and resubmitted, the FLHSMV will grant curriculum approval. Following this approval, a license to operate your car dealership training program will be issued. Instructors also undergo an approval process by the FLHSMV to ensure qualified personnel are delivering both pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
Upon final approval, your car dealership training school will be included on the official FLHSMV list of approved training providers. This listing is a valuable resource for prospective car dealers looking for recognized and reputable training programs to fulfill their licensing requirements. By becoming an approved school, you position yourself as a credible and trusted institution in the car dealership industry, playing a vital role in shaping the professionalism and expertise of future car dealers.
