How to Become a 3M Dealer or Certified Installer

3M is a large and complex company, operating through multiple business units and divisions. Despite the construction similarities of window films, paint protection films, and vinyl graphic films (i.e. rolled good with adhesive on one side), for years these products were managed by separate 3M divisions. It wasn’t until recently that these distinct, yet similar, products were brought into the same 3M division and business unit. As such, a prospective company’s path to becoming 3M authorized for each product line is still different.

To best explain this process, it will be helpful to define various terms that are used interchangeably but should not be confused with one another.

3M Distributor

The term 3M Distributor refers to a company that has a contractual agreement with 3M Company to purchase film from 3M in bulk and sell it to dealers and installers. A 3M Distributor like EPD purchases millions of dollars annually of 3M window films, paint protection films, color change films, vinyl graphic films, and ceramic coatings and resells them to businesses and individuals that install or use them for the benefit of end-users. In addition to selling factory rolls of material, it is common for a distributor to convert factory rolls. For example, most 3M security film rolls are manufactured in 100 linear foot lengths. When a dealer needs only 20 linear feet, EPD will cut down a factory roll and reroll the 20’ on a 3M-approved core which is then shipped within a 3M-approved box.

Besides selling film and the tools necessary to install film, a value-added 3M Distributor like EPD offers installation, sales, and marketing training to its customers to help drive end-user demand. We offer dealers and installers training through EPD University, a formalized training mechanism whereby new and veteran industry members can obtain knowledge to increase their chances of success.

3M Dealer

The term 3M Dealer refers to a company (not an individual) that is authorized by 3M to purchase and install 3M Sun Control Window Films, 3M Safety & Security Window Films, 3M Automotive Window Films, and 3M Paint Protection Films for end users. This authorization is formalized by a written contract between 3M and the Dealer spelling out the rights and requirements of each party. A dealer purchases film from a 3M Distributor and all installations are warrantied by 3M Company based on the film’s applicable warranty.

There is a different process to becoming a dealer for 3M’s flat glass window films versus its automotive tint and PPF, as 3M manages these distinct channels separately. Both processes begin by filling out an application to become a 3M dealer, after which point a prospect’s candidacy is evaluated by 3M. It is the evaluation process that is different between flat glass and automotive. It is not uncommon for 3M to perform market research to determine if it needs another dealer in the prospect’s geographic area.

A prospective dealer is encouraged to take the appropriate time and energy to complete the application thoroughly. 

3M-Certified Installer

The title 3M-Certified Installer refers to individuals (not companies) that have taken and passed installation training courses for 3M Vehicle Color Change or DI-NOC Architectural Finishes. (EPD University offers both certified training classes.) This title helps distinguish the individual from someone without the certification. An end-user may have greater comfort knowing that a color change or DI-NOC installation is being performed by a certified installer.

A company or an individual can still purchase 3M color change films and DI-NOC without being a 3M-Certified Installer.

Being a 3M-Certified Installer does not mean that an individual can purchase 3M Sun Control Window Films, 3M Safety & Security Window Films, 3M Automotive Window Films, or 3M Paint Protection Films.

Open vs. Closed Market Items

A business or individual can purchase the following 3M products without any certification or authorization: FASARA, Dusted & Frosted Crystal, Dichroic, DI-NOC, Vinyl Wrap Film Series 2080, Protection Wrap Films, and Ceramic Coatings. These products are referred to as open market items.

A business must be an authorized dealer to purchase the following closed market items: 3M Sun Control Window Films, 3M Safety & Security Window Films, 3M Automotive Window Films, and 3M Paint Protection Films.

The following table presents a comprehensive summary of the requirements of each 3M product line.

A prospective business’ or individual’s path forward with 3M is ultimately determined by the product. Products where there are no certification or authorization requirements can be purchased from our online store. Otherwise, a dealer application needs to be completed and approved by 3M.

Ready to Get Started?

While navigating 3M’s structure can be a challenge, becoming part of the 3M dealer or installer network is worth the effort. If you’re ready to grow your business with access to 3M’s closed market films, start your 3M dealer application here. If you’re an installer who wants to stand out in a crowded market, register for an upcoming 3M Certified Installer training through EPD University. Either way, EPD is here to provide the tools and guidance you need to help your business succeed.