California note
Professional license lookups are split by job
California license searches are split: DCA covers many professions, while contractors, real estate workers, and insurance workers use separate official tools.
California does not keep every professional license in one box. The right search depends on the job, and a no-result answer in the wrong database tells you very little.
DCA’s main search covers many licensed jobs. You can narrow the results by board, license type, city, county, status, and public discipline. Contractors and home-improvement salespeople use the Contractors State License Board. Real estate agents and brokers use the Department of Real Estate. Insurance agents, brokers, and adjusters use the Department of Insurance.
Check before money changes hands. Use the exact license number when you can, but do not stop there. Match the name, kind of license, status, business address, end date, and any public action shown by the agency.
A copied license number may belong to a real worker even when the person calling you is a fake. The real estate lookup warns about this trick. Compare the official record with the name, phone number, address, and company you were given. A current license is a useful first check. It does not promise good work. You should still check references, get a written contract, and use careful payment terms.
Where to see it
DCA license search, Department of Real Estate lookup, and Department of Insurance license tools.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 26, 2026
Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.
Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.
Related notes
Related California notes
Check the mover's California license and any interstate authority
Check BHGS for household moves within, into, or out of California. Interstate moves also need FMCSA authority, insurance, and U.S. DOT checks.
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