Household Moving – Applicants

Frequently Asked Questions

HHM Applicant FAQs

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Who is required to have a BHGS Household Mover License?

Anyone who is paid to move household goods entirely within California.

Who is required to have a BHGS Interstate Mover License?

Anyone who is paid to move household goods only into or out of California.

If you move household goods entirely within California, or you do both, you must complete a General Household Mover application.

What is a Household Movers Application?

A Household Movers Application is required by every business and/or person transporting household goods and personal items by motor vehicle over any California public highway.

What is a Transfer Application?

A Transfer Application is required to change the business type for an existing license or if the business is sold. The license must be in good standing with the Bureau to be eligible for a transfer.

What application needs to be completed if I conduct both intrastate (within California) and interstate (in and out of California) household moves?

If you conduct both intrastate and interstate household moves, submit a General Household Mover application.

What are household mover application fees?

The application fee for a general and interstate household mover license is $500. The application fee for a transfer license is $150.

How do I apply for a Household Mover License?

You can apply for a Household Mover license online by registering for a Connect account. Once registered, you can complete, submit, and pay the application fee directly online.

For a paper application, print out a mail-in application or request a copy by contacting us or calling 916 999-2041 (option 1).

Can I include more than one Doing Business As (DBA) on my license?

Yes. If you operate under multiple DBAs, the license must reflect all DBA names that are publicly displayed and associated with the business.

What are the fingerprint requirements?

All individuals listed under the "Owner Information" tab of the application are required to submit fingerprints for a Department of Justice (DOJ) background check prior to a license being issued. Instructions will be provided once the Bureau has reviewed and processed your application.

What is the exam requirement?

An exam qualifier is required for each license. The exam is open book, multiple choice, and focuses on the Maximum Rate Tariff 4 (Max 4) rates and rules.

What insurance is required?

1. Public Liability and Property Damage (PL & PD) to cover motor vehicles. For additional information see General Order 100 in Bureau's HHM Laws and Regulations.
2. Cargo Liability in the amount of $20,000 to cover loss and damage of household goods. Acceptable insurance types are common carrier liability and inland marine. For additional information see General Order 136 in the Bureau's HHM Laws and Regulations.
3. Workers' Compensation to cover one or more employees, if applicable. California law requires that all household mover licensees have a current workers' compensation policy if they have employees (BPC § 19239.4).

What bonds are required?

If handling collect-on-delivery (COD) shipments, you must have a COD surety bond in the amount of $2,000.

HHM Exam FAQs

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Who must take the Household Mover (HHM) exam?

The designated exam qualifier is required to take and pass the exam. If the qualifier is not the business owner, general partner, or responsible managing officer/member/manager, they must be a full-time employee working a minimum of 32 hours per week.

What does the HHM exam include?

The exam is a computer-based, open-book test consisting of multiple-choice questions. It focuses on the rules, regulations, and rate structures outlined in the Max 4 Tariff. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass.

How do I schedule the HHM exam?

BHGS will email you instructions on how to schedule the exam after your application has been reviewed.

What should an exam qualifier bring to the exam site?

The exam qualifier must bring their valid California state photo ID and driver's license that matches the exam qualifier's address on the license application. If the information does not match, you will not be allowed to take the exam. Written materials and a cell phone are not allowed in the exam room. You will be provided with a link to the Max 4 to use as a reference when taking the exam.

What happens if the exam qualifier is no longer with the moving company?

If the exam qualifier leaves the company, a replacement must be identified and successfully pass the exam to keep the license active. Failure to notify BHGS and assign a new qualifier may lead to license suspension until a qualified individual is officially recorded.

To request the exam qualifier form, email bhgs.hhmovers@dca.ca.gov or call (916) 999-2041, option 1.

Can I retake the exam if I do not pass?

Yes. If the exam qualifier does not pass, they may reschedule the exam—but not sooner than 30 days after the failed attempt. Each qualifier is allowed up to three attempts to pass. After three failures or a missed appointment, a new application must be submitted along with a $500 fee.

Do I need to complete the exam before submitting my application?

No. The exam is part of the licensing process and is scheduled after your application has been submitted and reviewed.

Is the HHM exam taken on paper or computer?

The exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions. It is administered in a secure testing environment and includes access to the Max 4 Tariff as a reference during the test.

Am I required to select the nearest testing center?

No. You may take the exam at any authorized testing location within the State of California. You are not limited to the center closest to your residence.

How will I know if I passed the exam?

Your exam results are provided to you the same day, and BHGS receives them the day after your test. You do not need to report your score—if you passed, your licensing process will continue without delay.

Is the exam or Max 4 Tariff provided in other languages?

No. It is only available in English.

Can I request a translator for the exam?

Yes. You can request a translator under the exam requirement tab of your online application. You will need to download and complete the translator form, then upload it to your application. The form also provides detailed instructions for the translator.