UPCOMINGCaliforniaJan 1, 2027Medium✓ Human reviewed

California law expressly recognizes electronic written auto-repair estimates

California SB 1445 (Chapter 237 of 2026) clarifies Business and Professions Code §9884.9 to expressly allow a required automotive-repair written estimate to be in electronic format, including an email or text. This clarifies the permitted format; it does not eliminate existing estimate, disclosure, or authorization duties, nor require repair shops to adopt electronic estimates.

written estimatesdigital authorizationelectronic estimatesSB 1445Chapter 237
What to check

California auto repair dealers using email, text, or digital estimates should confirm their workflow still satisfies the Automotive Repair Act's content, consent, and recordkeeping requirements. Paper estimates remain an option; do not interpret this as permission to skip required authorization.

At a glance
LifecycleUpcoming
PriorityMedium
EffectiveJan 1, 2027
VerifiedOct 15, 2026
Official evidence

Source and verification

Verified
Oct 15, 2026

Informational only; not legal advice. We summarize the regulatory update and link directly to the official source so you can verify it.

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