Department of Motor Vehicles: private industry partner fees.

Assembly Member Haney's legislation places new limits on fees that private companies can charge California motorists for online vehicle registration renewals, while mandating clearer disclosure of free DMV service options. The measure targets second-line business partners - companies that process DMV transactions through intermediary service providers rather than directly with the department.

Under the bill, these second-line partners would be prohibited from charging customers more for registration renewals on their websites than the maximum amount allowed for first-line service providers who work directly with the DMV. The legislation also requires second-line partners to prominently display a link to the DMV's website along with text informing consumers they can obtain services directly from the department without additional charges.

The provisions build upon existing DMV authority to contract with private companies for electronic vehicle registration, titling and temporary license plate services. The department currently oversees three categories of private partners: first-line business partners who use DMV data for their own operations, first-line service providers who transmit data to other authorized partners, and second-line business partners who receive information through the service providers. All partners must submit applications, pay fees, undergo background checks and post bonds to participate in the program.