REG 4029 Form – If you’re a California vehicle dealer, registration service, or other business seeking to participate in the California DMV Business Partner Automation (BPA) Program, you’ve likely encountered Form REG 4029—the official Business Partner Deposit Agreement and Assignment. This form provides an alternative to posting a traditional surety bond (Form REG 866) by allowing you to deposit cash or qualifying securities directly with the DMV.
In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll learn exactly what the REG 4029 form is, who needs it, how to complete it, where to download the official REG 4029 PDF, and why it’s a critical requirement for first-line and certain second-line business partners under California Vehicle Code §1685.
What Is the REG 4029 Form?
The REG 4029 is the Business Partner Deposit Agreement and Assignment issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It is executed under Vehicle Code section 1685, Title 13 California Code of Regulations Article 3.6 (commencing with §225.00), and Code of Civil Procedure §§995.010 et seq. (specifically §995.710).
Key purpose: It allows a “Depositor” (which may be the business partner itself or a third party) to place a cash or securities deposit with the DMV in lieu of a surety bond. This deposit secures the business partner’s obligations when processing DMV transactions remotely through the BPA Program, such as vehicle registrations, titling, and related services.
The form creates a continuous obligation that runs with each permit period and gives the DMV the right to apply the deposit if the business partner causes any loss to the state.
Revision note: The current version is REG 4029 (R10 2008), still actively used and hosted on the official DMV site as of 2026.
Who Needs the REG 4029 Business Partner Deposit Agreement?
You must file REG 4029 if you are:
- A first-line business partner or first-line service provider participating in the BPA Program and you choose to use a cash/securities deposit instead of a surety bond (REG 866).
- Required to maintain financial security under Vehicle Code §1685.
Bond/deposit amounts (as of 2026):
- First-line business partner: $650,000
- First-line service provider: $1,000,000
- Second-line partners: Generally covered by existing occupational license bonds (no separate BPA deposit required in most cases).
Note: New motor vehicle dealers must participate in the BPA Program. Most choose either REG 866 (surety bond) or REG 4029 (deposit). Contact [email protected] for guidance.
Why Use REG 4029 Instead of a Surety Bond (REG 866)?
| Option | REG 4029 (Deposit) | REG 866 (Surety Bond) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Upfront cash/securities deposit | Annual premium (often 1–2% of bond amount) |
| Liquidity | Funds tied up but earn interest (if cash) | No cash outlay beyond premium |
| Approval | Must meet CCP §995.710 requirements | Surety company issues bond |
| Best for | Businesses with available cash/CDs/bonds | Businesses preferring ongoing premiums |
Many businesses prefer the deposit option because interest on cash deposits is paid quarterly to the depositor (unless proceedings are pending).
How to Fill Out the REG 4029 Form – Step-by-Step?
The form is designed to be completed in blue ink and includes clear sections. Here are the main fields:
- DMV Use Only – Leave blank (agreement number and BPA name).
- Depositor Information – Full legal name(s), address for service of process.
- Business Partner Information – Full name, DBA(s), and address for service of process.
- Deposit Details – Choose one or more:
- Lawful U.S. money (cash) in an interest-bearing trust account.
- Bearer bonds/notes of the U.S. or California.
- FDIC-insured certificates of deposit or savings accounts (bank/savings association).
- NCUA-guaranteed share accounts (credit union).
- Penal Sum – Enter the required bond amount ($650,000 or $1,000,000).
- Execution – City/county, date, signature (blue ink), printed name and title.
- Financial Institution Acknowledgment (if applicable) – Bank/credit union officer signature.
- Addenda – Use if extra space is needed for multiple accounts or parties.
Important certifications:
- The deposit is given under penalty of perjury.
- Evidence of the deposit (receipt, passbook, etc.) should be attached.
- The agreement is continuous and subject to all provisions of the cited laws.
Pro tip: Review the full instructions printed on the form and consult the DMV’s Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual for additional guidance.
Official Download: REG 4029 PDF
Direct official link (most current version):
Download REG 4029 Business Partner Deposit Agreement PDF
Always download directly from the California DMV website to ensure you have the latest authorized version. Third-party sites may host outdated copies.
Additional Requirements for BPA Program Participation
Besides REG 4029 (or REG 866), applicants typically need:
- Completed BPA application
- Electronic Fund Transfer Authorization (REG 4051)
- Proof of insurance and other licensing documents
Applications become null and void after 12 months if not completed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use REG 4029 if I’m a second-line partner?
A: Usually not required—second-line partners rely on their existing occupational license bond in most cases.
Q: What happens to the deposit if there’s a claim?
A: The DMV may collect, sell, or apply the deposit to cover any liability or loss caused by the business partner.
Q: How do I cancel the agreement?
A: Follow Code of Civil Procedure Article 13 (§§996.310 et seq.) for cancellation procedures.
Q: Where do I submit the completed REG 4029?
A: Mail or deliver as instructed by the BPA Unit. Contact [email protected] for submission details.
Final Thoughts
The REG 4029 Form is a straightforward yet powerful way for qualified California businesses to meet the financial security requirements of the DMV’s Business Partner Automation Program without relying on a third-party surety. By providing a compliant cash or securities deposit, you gain the ability to process registrations, titles, and other transactions efficiently from your own location.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official California DMV Business Partner Automation Program page and the latest REG 4029 PDF. If your business situation is complex, reach out directly to the BPA Unit at [email protected] before submitting.
Ready to get started? Download the official REG 4029 PDF today and take the next step toward becoming a DMV Business Partner.
Last updated: April 2026. All information sourced directly from official California DMV publications and forms.