{
 "meta": {
  "name": "State Licensing Requirements for Mobile Automotive Repair",
  "description": "Whether each US state requires a license to perform automotive repair, and specifically whether that requirement reaches a solo mobile operator working from a van. All 50 states plus the District of Columbia, each read against the state's own statute or license directory rather than a secondary summary.",
  "version": "2026.09",
  "publisher": "Mechanics Alliance",
  "publisher_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org",
  "license": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/",
  "license_name": "Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)",
  "cite_as": "Mechanics Alliance, \"State Licensing Requirements for Mobile Automotive Repair\", version 2026.09. https://mechanicsalliance.org/licensing-data",
  "reuse": "You may reuse, quote and redistribute this data, including commercially and including as input to AI systems, provided you credit Mechanics Alliance and link to the source.",
  "method": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/licensing-data#method",
  "jurisdiction_count": 51,
  "date_modified": "2026-09-10",
  "counts_by_tier": {
   "certain_work_only": 14,
   "none_at_state_level": 20,
   "license_required": 8,
   "rules_without_license": 8,
   "unverified": 1
  },
  "verification_summary": {
   "primary_source": 38,
   "negative_finding_uncited": 12,
   "unverified": 1
  },
  "tiers": {
   "license_required": "A license or registration is required for general automotive repair.",
   "certain_work_only": "Only specific work is regulated, typically brakes, emissions or air conditioning.",
   "rules_without_license": "No license, but binding rules apply, such as written estimates or disclosure.",
   "none_at_state_level": "No state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "unverified": "Could not be confirmed against a working primary source. Treat as unconfirmed."
  },
  "caveat": "State law is the floor. City and county rules, business registration, sales tax and EPA requirements are separate and are not covered here. This is not legal advice."
 },
 "jurisdictions": [
  {
   "state": "Alabama",
   "code": "AL",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Privilege license tax only, and mobile is exempt",
   "summary": "Alabama does not license repair shops. It levies a privilege license tax on garages, assessed per person per location. The handbook exempts mobile work outright.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Exempt. \"Mechanics working exclusively from a truck doing repairs at the customer\u2019s location are not subject to this license.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Ala. Code 40-12-54",
    "url": "https://www.revenue.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Handbook-of-Privilege-Store-Licenses.pdf"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/alabama",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#AL",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Alaska",
   "code": "AK",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Alaska has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair. Local business licensing and federal rules still apply.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/alaska",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#AK",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Arizona",
   "code": "AZ",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Emissions inspection stations only",
   "summary": "Arizona licenses emissions inspection stations. General automotive repair is not licensed at state level.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you do emissions testing.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "A.R.S. 49-542",
    "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/49/00542.htm"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/arizona",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#AZ",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Arkansas",
   "code": "AR",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Arkansas has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/arkansas",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#AR",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "California",
   "code": "CA",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Registration required, and mobile is named explicitly",
   "summary": "Every automotive repair dealer must register with the Bureau of Automotive Repair. The definition has no premises element, so a one-person mobile operation is covered. Since 1 October 2025 a shop doing mobile work more than 50 miles from its registered address needs a separate registration.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered, by name. The application asks for the \"motor vehicle license plate number, if engaged in mobile automotive repairs.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Bus. & Prof. Code 9884(b)(1)(G)",
    "url": "https://www.bar.ca.gov/get-licensed"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/california",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#CA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Colorado",
   "code": "CO",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but written-estimate law applies",
   "summary": "Colorado licenses nothing, but the Motor Vehicle Repair Act imposes binding estimate and invoice duties. The Act contains no licensing section at all.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules once a repair exceeds $100.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "CRS 42-9-101 to -110",
    "url": "https://content.leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-42.pdf"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/colorado",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#CO",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Connecticut",
   "code": "CT",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Repairer license required",
   "summary": "Connecticut DMV licenses motor vehicle repairers. In practice the license is gated on premises, so a purely mobile operation struggles to qualify.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Hard. The application requires a \"suitable place of business.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Form K-36",
    "url": "https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/commercial-and-industry-services/get-regulated-business-license"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/connecticut",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#CT",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Delaware",
   "code": "DE",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Delaware has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/delaware",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#DE",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "District of Columbia",
   "code": "DC",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Basic Business License required",
   "summary": "DC requires a Basic Business License for auto repair. The Certificate of Occupancy requirement makes a premises-free operation difficult.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Difficult. Gated on a Certificate of Occupancy.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "DLCP Business Licensing",
    "url": "https://dlcp.dc.gov/node/1618741"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/dc",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#DC",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Florida",
   "code": "FL",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Registration required, and mobile is named in statute",
   "summary": "Florida requires motor vehicle repair shops to register with FDACS. The statute names mobile shops and self-employed individuals directly. A narrow exemption exists only for someone with no employees and no established place of business.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Named in statute. A repair shop \"includes, but is not limited to: mobile motor vehicle repair shops ... self-employed individuals.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "F.S. 559.903(8)",
    "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/559.903"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/florida",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#FL",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Georgia",
   "code": "GA",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Used-parts and salvage dealers only",
   "summary": "Georgia licenses used-parts and salvage dealers. General repair is not licensed at state level.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you deal in salvage or used parts.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 681-6",
    "url": "https://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/681-6"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/georgia",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#GA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Hawaii",
   "code": "HI",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Both the shop and the mechanic must be registered",
   "summary": "Hawaii registers repair dealers and separately certifies mechanics. The rules cover a mechanic whether self-employed or employed by another, and reference mobile repair facilities directly.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered twice over. Rules reference \"each mobile repair facility, as registered with the board.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "HAR 16-87-3",
    "url": "https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/motorrepair/"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/hawaii",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#HI",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Idaho",
   "code": "ID",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Idaho has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/idaho",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#ID",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Illinois",
   "code": "IL",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Repairer license, but premises-gated",
   "summary": "Illinois licenses \"repairers\", but exempts work done as an incident to the servicing of vehicles and requires an established place of business.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Effectively excluded. The license requires \"an established place of business.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "625 ILCS 5/5-301",
    "url": "https://ilga.gov/documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K5-301.htm"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/illinois",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#IL",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Indiana",
   "code": "IN",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Indiana has no state-level licensing for general automotive repair. The \"mechanic license\" that appears in search results is an elevator mechanic license and is unrelated.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://www.in.gov/pla/professions/"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/indiana",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#IN",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Iowa",
   "code": "IA",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a trade practices act applies",
   "summary": "Iowa licenses nothing, but the Motor Vehicle Service Trade Practices Act imposes estimate and disclosure duties.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules above $50.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Iowa Code ch. 537B",
    "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/537B.pdf"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/iowa",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#IA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Kansas",
   "code": "KS",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Kansas has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://ksbiz.kansas.gov/business-starter-kit/autorepair/"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/kansas",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#KS",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Kentucky",
   "code": "KY",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Kentucky has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/kentucky",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#KY",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Louisiana",
   "code": "LA",
   "tier": "Unverified",
   "tier_key": "unverified",
   "verdict": "We could not verify this one",
   "summary": "Louisiana R.S. 32:1252 could not be verified against a working primary source during our audit. Treat this state as unconfirmed and check with the state directly before relying on it.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Unknown. Verify locally.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "R.S. 32:1252 (unverified)",
    "url": null
   },
   "verification": "unverified",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/louisiana",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#LA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Maine",
   "code": "ME",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection stations only",
   "summary": "Maine licenses inspection stations. General repair is not licensed. A widely repeated claim that Maine requires a $50/yr repair shop registration traces to LD 362, a bill that was never enacted.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you perform state inspections.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Maine State Police MV Inspections",
    "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dps/msp/investigation-traffic/crash-investigations/mv-inspections"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/maine",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#ME",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Maryland",
   "code": "MD",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a repair statute applies",
   "summary": "Maryland licenses nothing, but its repair statute reaches \"any person who diagnoses or corrects malfunctions ... for financial profit.\"",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules above $50, with no premises element.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Md. Comm. Law 14-1001",
    "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gcl&section=14-1001"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/maryland",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MD",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Massachusetts",
   "code": "MA",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Damage repair only",
   "summary": "Massachusetts licenses shops that repair damaged motor vehicles. Routine mechanical work is outside the license.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered if you do collision or damage work. \"No person shall engage...\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "M.G.L. c.100A s.1",
    "url": "https://www.mass.gov/auto-repair-shop-license-registrations"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/massachusetts",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Michigan",
   "code": "MI",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Both the facility and the mechanic must be certified",
   "summary": "Michigan is the only state that requires both a repair facility registration and a personal state mechanic certification. ASE alone is not sufficient. The exemption list contains no mobile carve-out.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered. The exemptions are prefaced \"unless ... adopted for the purposes of evading this act.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "MCL 257.1304",
    "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/sos/industry-services/repair-facilities"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/michigan",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MI",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Minnesota",
   "code": "MN",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a repair statute applies",
   "summary": "Minnesota licenses nothing, but its motor vehicle repair statute reaches anyone who \"derives income, in whole or part\" from repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules above $100.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Minn. Stat. 325F.56",
    "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/325F.56"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/minnesota",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MN",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Mississippi",
   "code": "MS",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Mississippi has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/mississippi",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MS",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Missouri",
   "code": "MO",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Missouri has no state-level licensing for automotive repair. A widely repeated claim that the Department of Revenue issues a repair shop license is false.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://pr.mo.gov/professions.asp"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/missouri",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MO",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Montana",
   "code": "MT",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Montana has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/montana",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#MT",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Nebraska",
   "code": "NE",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Nebraska has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/nebraska",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NE",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Nevada",
   "code": "NV",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Garage registration required",
   "summary": "Nevada DMV registers garages. The statute reaches mobile operators, though the registration process is oriented to fixed locations.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Statutorily covered, practically gated.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "NRS 487",
    "url": "https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-487.html"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/nevada",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NV",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Hampshire",
   "code": "NH",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "New Hampshire has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/new-hampshire",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NH",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Jersey",
   "code": "NJ",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Auto body only",
   "summary": "New Jersey licenses auto body repair facilities. General mechanical repair is not licensed at state level.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you do body work.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "NJ MVC Auto Body Licensing",
    "url": "https://nj.gov/mvc/business/autobodylic.htm"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/new-jersey",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NJ",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "New Mexico",
   "code": "NM",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "New Mexico has no state-level repair licensing. NMSA 57-16A, sometimes cited as a repair licensing article, is actually the lemon law.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/new-mexico",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NM",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "New York",
   "code": "NY",
   "tier": "License required",
   "tier_key": "license_required",
   "verdict": "Registration required, and \"mobile unit\" is a defined category",
   "summary": "New York registers motor vehicle repair shops. The regulation reaches \"any person\" repairing for compensation, with no receipts threshold and no mobile carve-out. Mobile units are a named category with their own signage rule. New York does not certify individual mechanics.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Named category. \"A mobile unit shall have the official indoor repair shop sign firmly affixed to the mobile unit.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "15 NYCRR 82.3(a)",
    "url": "https://dmv.ny.gov/business/open-a-repair-or-body-shop"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/new-york",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NY",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "North Carolina",
   "code": "NC",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection stations only",
   "summary": "North Carolina licenses inspection stations and inspection mechanics. The program moved to the State Highway Patrol, and older NCDOT links are dead.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached. Inspection stations need 45 lineal feet of floor space.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "NC SHP Investigative Services",
    "url": "https://www.ncshp.gov/investigative-services-unit"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/north-carolina",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#NC",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "North Dakota",
   "code": "ND",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "North Dakota has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://www.sos.nd.gov/business/licensing-registration"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/north-dakota",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#ND",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Ohio",
   "code": "OH",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a consumer rule applies",
   "summary": "Ohio licenses nothing, but an administrative rule imposes estimate duties. The rule was amended effective 21 March 2026.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered above $25, though the trigger may not attach to driveway work.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "OAC 109:4-3-13",
    "url": "https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-109:4-3-13"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/ohio",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#OH",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Oklahoma",
   "code": "OK",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Oklahoma has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/oklahoma",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#OK",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Oregon",
   "code": "OR",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Oregon has no state repair shop license. The frequently cited \"DOJ Repair Shop Certificate\" does not exist in Oregon\u2019s own license directory. DEQ\u2019s recognized repair shop program is voluntary recognition, not a license.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://apps.oregon.gov/sos/licensedirectory/links"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/oregon",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#OR",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Pennsylvania",
   "code": "PA",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection stations only",
   "summary": "Pennsylvania licenses inspection stations and inspection mechanics. General repair is not licensed.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you perform state inspections.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "PA DMV Inspection",
    "url": "https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dmv/vehicle-services/inspection-and-safety-requirements/station-owner-and-mechanic"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/pennsylvania",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#PA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Rhode Island",
   "code": "RI",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Body and collision only, but PDR has no premises rule",
   "summary": "Rhode Island licenses auto body and collision repair; mechanical repair is explicitly excluded. Notably, the Paintless Dent Repair special use license has no fixed-location requirement.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "PDR license holders \"are not required to have a fixed location.\"",
   "citation": {
    "label": "230-RICR-30-05-2",
    "url": "https://dbr.ri.gov/divisions/commlicensing/autobody.php"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/rhode-island",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#RI",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "South Carolina",
   "code": "SC",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "South Carolina has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://llr.sc.gov/professions.aspx"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/south-carolina",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#SC",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "South Dakota",
   "code": "SD",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "South Dakota has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/south-dakota",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#SD",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Tennessee",
   "code": "TN",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Tennessee has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": null,
   "verification": "negative_finding_uncited",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/tennessee",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#TN",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Texas",
   "code": "TX",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection and salvage only",
   "summary": "Texas licenses inspection stations and salvage/rebuilder dealers above five vehicles a year. General repair is not licensed. TDLR does not license vehicle air conditioning; its A/C program is building HVAC.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Reached only if you rebuild salvage. That test is by volume, with no premises exemption.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "TxDMV Salvage Dealer",
    "url": "https://www.txdmv.gov/dealers/licensing/salvage-dealer"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/texas",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#TX",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Utah",
   "code": "UT",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Body shops only",
   "summary": "Utah licenses body shops. There is no Utah Motor Vehicle Repair Act; Title 13 Chapter 30 does not exist in the official compilation.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached for mechanical work. A body license needs a principal place of business.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Utah Code 41-3-201(2)(l)",
    "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter3/41-3-S201.html"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/utah",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#UT",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Vermont",
   "code": "VT",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection stations only",
   "summary": "Vermont licenses inspection stations. General repair is not licensed at state level.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you perform state inspections.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "VT DMV Inspections",
    "url": "https://dmv.vermont.gov/enforcement-and-safety/vehicle-inspections"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/vermont",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#VT",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Virginia",
   "code": "VA",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a repair facilities act applies",
   "summary": "Virginia licenses nothing, but the Automobile Repair Facilities Act imposes estimate duties on request.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "Va. Code 59.1-207.2",
    "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title59.1/chapter17.3/section59.1-207.2/"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/virginia",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#VA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Washington",
   "code": "WA",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but violations are Consumer Protection Act violations",
   "summary": "Washington licenses nothing, but chapter 46.71 RCW imposes estimate and authorization duties, and a violation is a per se Consumer Protection Act violation.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered. The statute has no premises element.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "RCW 46.71.011(3)",
    "url": "https://www.atg.wa.gov/auto-repair"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/washington",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#WA",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "West Virginia",
   "code": "WV",
   "tier": "Only for certain work",
   "tier_key": "certain_work_only",
   "verdict": "Inspection stations only",
   "summary": "West Virginia licenses inspection stations. General repair is not licensed at state level.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Not reached unless you perform state inspections.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "WV State Police Traffic Safety",
    "url": "https://www.wvsp.gov/departments/trafficsafety/Pages/default.aspx"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/west-virginia",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#WV",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Wisconsin",
   "code": "WI",
   "tier": "No license, but rules apply",
   "tier_key": "rules_without_license",
   "verdict": "No license, but a consumer rule applies",
   "summary": "Wisconsin licenses nothing, but ATCP 132 imposes estimate and invoice duties.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "Covered by the conduct rules above $50.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "ATCP 132",
    "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/atcp/090/132"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/wisconsin",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#WI",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  },
  {
   "state": "Wyoming",
   "code": "WY",
   "tier": "Nothing at state level",
   "tier_key": "none_at_state_level",
   "verdict": "No state repair license",
   "summary": "Wyoming has no state-level licensing or registration for automotive repair.",
   "reaches_solo_mobile_operator": "No state requirement.",
   "citation": {
    "label": "state license directory",
    "url": "https://www.wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title33.pdf"
   },
   "verification": "primary_source",
   "guide_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/resources/licensing/wyoming",
   "checker_url": "https://mechanicsalliance.org/tools/licensing-checker#WY",
   "last_reviewed": "2026-09"
  }
 ]
}