A Bridge to Opportunities: California Agencies and Departments

The California Secretary of State supports businesses, strengthens democracy, protects individual rights and preserves our state’s history by delivering quality services, accessible resources and trusted information.

The Office of the State Treasurer helps eligible and creditworthy non-profit and public health facilities reduce their cost of capital, and promote important California health access, healthcare improvement and cost containment objectives by providing cost-effective tax-exempt bond, low-cost loan and direct grant programs.

The State Controller's Office is responsible for accountability and disbursement of the state’s financial resources. The Controller also safeguards many types of property until claimed by the rightful owners and has independent auditing authority over government agencies that spend state funds. The Controller helps administer two of the nation's largest public pension funds and serves on 70 state boards and commissions with authority ranging from state public land management to crime victim compensation.

The California State Auditor recognizes that the citizens and the government rely on us to ensure the effective and efficient administration and management of public funds and programs. It is our job to help make sure that California government stays one step ahead. As the state's independent external auditor, we provide nonpartisan, accurate, and timely assessments of California government's financial and operational activities in compliance with generally accepted government auditing standards.

The Legislative Analyst's Office provides fiscal and policy advice to the Legislature and has done so for more than 70 years. It is known for its fiscal and programmatic expertise and nonpartisan analyses of the state budget. The office serves as the "eyes and ears" for the Legislature to ensure that the executive branch is implementing legislative policy in a cost efficient and effective manner.

The California Judicial Branch resolves—in a fair, accessible, effective and efficient manner—disputes arising under the law and interprets and applies the law consistently, impartially and independently to protect the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitutions of California and the United States.

The Court Reporters Board of California protects the public health, safety and welfare by ensuring the integrity of judicial records through oversight of the court reporting profession.

The Judicial Council of California sets the direction and provides the leadership for improving the quality and advancing the consistent, independent, impartial and accessible administration of justice, under the leadership of the chief justice and in accordance with the California Constitution, the law, and the mission of the judiciary.

The Habeas Corpus Resource Center provides timely, high-quality legal representation for indigent petitioners in death penalty habeas corpus proceedings before the California state courts and the federal courts.

The Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency assists and educates consumers regarding the licensing, regulation and enforcement of professionals and businesses in California.

The California Department of Consumer Affairs provides support services, oversight and innovative solutions to boards and bureaus that regulate California professionals and vocations so that through this partnership all Californians are informed, empowered and protected.

The Board of Accountancy protects consumers by ensuring only qualified licensees practice public accountancy in accordance with established professional standards.

The Acupuncture Board protects the people of California by upholding acupuncture practice standards through the oversight and enforcement of the Acupuncture Licensure Act.

The California Architects Board protects consumers by establishing standards for professional qualifications, ensuring competence through examinations, setting practice standards and enforcing the Architects Practice Act.

The California State Athletic Commission is dedicated to the health and safety of participants, and the welfare of all stakeholders in regulated combat sporting events through ethical and professional service.

The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology ensures the health and safety of California consumers by promoting ethical standards and by enforcing the laws of the barbering and beauty industry.

The Board of Behavioral Sciences protects and serves Californians by setting, communicating and enforcing standards for safe and competent mental health practices.

The Board of Chiropractic Examiners protects the health, welfare and safety of the public through licensure, education and enforcement in chiropractic care.

The Contractors State License Board protects consumers by regulating the construction industry through policies that promote the health, safety and general welfare of the public in matters relating to construction.

The Dental Board of California protects the public by licensing, regulating, and overseeing dentists and dental auxiliaries, ensuring that only qualified individuals are authorized to practice. It also enforces the Dental Practice Act by investigating complaints, disciplining licensees when necessary, and setting standards for dental education, training, and professional practice throughout California.

The Landscape Architects Technical Committee regulates the practice of landscape architecture through the enforcement of the Landscape Architects Practice Act to protect consumers, and the public health, safety and welfare while safeguarding the environment.

The Medical Board of California protects healthcare consumers and prevents harm through the proper licensing and regulation of physicians and surgeons and certain allied healthcare professionals and through the vigorous, objective enforcement of the Medical Practice Act, and to promote access to quality medical care through the board's licensing, policy and regulatory functions.

The Board of Registered Nursing protects California's health care consumers and promote quality nursing care.

The Board of Optometry protects the health and safety of California consumers through licensing, registration, education and regulation of Optometry and Opticianry.

The Osteopathic Medical Board protects the public by requiring competency, accountability and integrity in the safe practice of medicine by osteopathic physicians and surgeons.

The Board of Pharmacy protects and promotes the health and safety of Californians by pursuing the highest quality of pharmacist’s care and the appropriate use of pharmaceuticals through education, communication, licensing, legislation, regulation and enforcement.

The Physical Therapy Board protects the people of California by the effective administration of the Physical Therapy Practice Act.

The Podiatric Medical Board protects and educates consumers of California through licensing, enforcement, and regulation of Doctors of Podiatric Medicine.

The Board of Psychology protects consumers of psychological services by licensing psychologists and associated professionals, regulating the practice of psychology and supporting the ethical evolution of the profession.

The Veterinary Medical Board protects all California consumers and animals by regulating licensees, promoting professional standards and enforcing the California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.

The Bureau of Automotive Repair protects Californians through effective oversight of the automotive repair industry and administration of vehicle emissions reduction and safety programs.

The Bureau of Household Goods and Services protects and serves the consumers while ensuring a fair and competitive market.

The Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers safeguards the public trust by promoting professionalism in the real estate appraisal industry through licensing, education, and enforcement.

The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau safeguards consumers by licensing and regulating the death care industry through policies and practices that protect the health, safety and general welfare of Californians.

The Department of Cannabis Control, through innovative policies and effective implementation, advances and facilitates a well-regulated, legal market that benefits all Californians.

The Civil Rights Department protects the people of California from unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, businesses and state-funded programs, and from bias-motivated violence and human trafficking.

The California Achieving a Better Life Experience administers an investment tool that will allow people with disabilities to establish a tax-advantaged ABLE account that allows them to save up to $14,000 (currently) per year and up to $475,000 in total without losing vital public state means- tested benefits and up to $100,000 without losing SSI.

The Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Advisory Council helps disabled veterans compete more effectively for a portion of those dollars, and to promote self-reliance for California's disabled veterans by offering them the opportunity to gain experience in business. The program also allows the veterans to share their expertise with the citizens of California and provides a goal of awarding 3% of all state contracts to certified DVBEs.

The Department of Housing and Community Development promotes safe, affordable homes and vibrant, inclusive, sustainable communities for all Californians.

The Department of Real Estate safeguards and promotes the public interests in real estate matters through licensure, regulation, education and enforcement.

The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation serves Californians by effectively overseeing financial service providers; enforcing laws and regulations; promoting innovation and fair and honest business practices; enhancing consumer awareness; and protecting consumers by preventing potential marketplace risks, fraud, and abuse.

The California Housing Finance Agency delivers reliable financing solutions to advance housing opportunities for Californians.

The Interagency Council on Homelessness develops policies and identify resources, benefits and services to prevent and work toward ending homelessness in California.

The Health and Human Service Agency works together with counties, cities and communities as well as public, private, faith, and educational partners to make California a healthy, vibrant and inclusive place to live, play, work and learn.

The Department of Aging leads California’s aging network through future-focused planning, equitable programs and collaborative partnerships that support older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.

The Center for Data Insights and Innovation improves the lives of all Californians by turning data into insights, knowledge and equitable action.

The Department of Child Support Services promotes parental responsibility to enhance the well-being of children by providing child support services to establish parentage and collect child support.

The Department of Community Services and Development improves the economic security of vulnerable Californians through programs and partnerships that support the state’s diverse communities.​

The California Department of Developmental Services ensures Californians with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to make choices and lead independent, productive lives as members of their communities in the least restrictive setting possible.

The State Council on Developmental Disabilities advocates, promotes and implements policies and practices that achieve self-determination, independence, productivity and inclusion in all aspects of community life for Californians with developmental disabilities and their families.

The California Commission on Disability Access promotes disability access in California through dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders including, but not limited to, the disability and business communities as well as all levels of government.

The California Emergency Medical Services Authority provides equitable, high quality emergency medical care and seamlessly integrates with the continuum of healthcare services.

The Health Care Access Information expands access to quality, equitable, affordable health care for all Californians by supporting high value delivery systems, resilient health facilities and workforces, and actionable health information and strategies.

The California Department of Health Care Services provides Californians with access to affordable, integrated, high-quality health care, including medical, dental, mental health, substance use treatment services and long-term care. The vision is to preserve and improve the overall health and well-being of all Californians.

The Department of Managed Health Care ensures health plan members have access to equitable, high-quality, timely and affordable health care within a stable health care delivery system.

The Department of Public Health advances the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities.

The California Department of Rehabilitation works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living and equality for individuals with disabilities. DOR administers the largest vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs in the country. Vocational rehabilitation services are designed to help job seekers with disabilities obtain competitive employment in integrated work settings. Independent living services may include peer support, skill development, systems advocacy, referrals, assistive technology services, transition services, housing assistance and personal assistance services.

The California Department of Social Services serves, protects and supports the people of California experiencing need in ways that empower wellbeing and disrupt systemic inequities.

The Department of State Hospitals provides evaluation and treatment for individuals with complex behavioral health needs in a safe, equitable and responsible manner by leading innovation and excellence across a continuum of care.

The Office of the California Surgeon General is dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of all Californians by focusing on three key priorities—ACEs and toxic stress, maternal health, and reproductive health.

The Office of Law Enforcement Support ensures the safety and security of patients and residents within California’s state hospitals and developmental centers through contemporaneous oversight, investigations and collaborative partnerships to achieve systemic improvements in policies, procedures and partnerships.

The Office of Technology and Solutions Integration provides leadership, direction and capacity to actively deliver and support IT and data solutions that address the specific needs of department partners in effectively supporting Californians.

The Office of Youth and Community Restoration promotes trauma responsive, culturally informed, gender honoring and developmentally appropriate services for youth involved in the juvenile justice system that support the youths’ successful transition into adulthood.

The California Environmental Protection Agency's mission is to restore, protect and enhance the environment, to ensure public health, environmental quality and economic vitality.

The California Air Resources Board promotes and protects public health, welfare and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. CARB is the lead agency for climate change programs and oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health-based air quality standards.

The Department of Pesticide Regulation protects human health and the environment by fostering sustainable pest management and regulating pesticides.

The Department of Toxic Substances protects California’s people, communities and environment from toxic substances, enhances economic vitality by restoring contaminated land and compels manufacturers to make safer consumer products.

The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment protects and enhances the health of Californians and the state's environment through scientific evaluations that inform, support and guide regulatory and other actions.

The State Water Resources Control Board preserves, enhances, and restores the quality of California's water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health and all beneficial uses, ensures proper water resource allocation and efficient use for the benefit of present and future generations.

The California Water Quality Monitoring Council enhances water and associated ecosystem health monitoring programs by providing a venue for coordination and developing guidance and recommendations to build a comprehensive statewide network for Californians.

CalRecylce protects California’s environment and climate for the health and prosperity of future generations through the reduction, reuse and recycling of California resources, environmental education, disaster recovery and the transition from a disposable to a fully circular economy.

The California Natural Resources Agency helps all Californians and nature thrive together. Home to over 25,000 employees, the agency protects, manages and restores the state’s environment and its vast natural, cultural and historical resources. It also advances this work with science as our foundation and inclusion and collaboration as our guiding principles.

The Department of Conservation balances ​​today’s needs with tomorrow's challenges and fosters intelligent, sustainable, and efficient use of California's energy, land and mineral resources.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife works with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection serves and safeguards the people and protects the property and resources of California.

The Department of Parks and Recreation provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.

The Department of Water Resources sustainably manages the water resources of California, in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the state’s people and protect, restore and enhance the natural and human environments.

The California Coastal Commission is committed to protecting and enhancing California’s coast and ocean for present and future generations. It does so through careful planning and regulation of environmentally-sustainable development, rigorous use of science, strong public participation, education and effective intergovernmental coordination.

The California Coastal Conservancy’s vision is to have a beautiful, restored and accessible coast for current and future Californians. The organization works with others to protect, restore and increase public access to California’s coast, ocean, coastal watersheds and the San Francisco Bay Area.

The Delta Stewardship Council advances California’s coequal goals for the Delta – a more reliable statewide water supply and a resilient Delta ecosystem – in a manner that protects and enhances the unique characteristics of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta as an evolving place where people live, work and recreate.

The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission protects and enhances San Francisco Bay and advances the Bay’s responsible, productive and equitable uses for this and future generations as we face a changing climate and rising sea levels.

The California Tahoe Conservancy leads California’s efforts to restore and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

The Wildlife Conservation Board protects, restores and enhances California’s spectacular natural resources for wildlife and for the public’s use and enjoyment, in partnership with tribes, conservation groups, government agencies, and the people of California.

The State Transportation Agency leads people-first transportation programs and policies to enhance safety, equity, climate action and economic prosperity for all Californians.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) improves lives and communities through transportation.

The Department of Motor Vehicles serves the public by licensing drivers, registering vehicles, securing identities and regulating the motor vehicle industry in pursuit of public safety.

The California Highway Patrol provides the highest level of safety, service and security to the people of California.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority plans, designs, builds, and operates the first high-speed rail system in the nation. California high-speed rail will connect the mega-regions of the state, contribute to economic development and a cleaner environment, create jobs and preserve agricultural and protected lands.

The State of California’s Board of Pilot Commissioners for the Bays of San Francisco, San Pablo, Suisun and Monterey ensures the safe, reliable and efficient navigation of vessels in and out of these regions by licensing, regulating and overseeing accomplished maritime pilots. The Board is committed to protecting the public interest, the environment and maritime commerce through rigorous standards of training, accountability and professional conduct.

The California Transportation Commission invests in transportation that improves communities, the environment and the economy.

The Government Operations Agency improves government operations within state departments so they can better serve the people of California.

The Department of General Services provides a variety of services to state agencies through procurement and acquisition solutions; real estate management and design; environmentally friendly transportation; professional printing, design and web services; administrative hearings; legal services; building standards; oversight of structural safety, fire/life safety and accessibility for the design and construction of K-12 public schools and community colleges; funding for school construction; and disability access.

The Department of Human Resources serves as a trusted advisor to strategic partners and the public, providing human resource services and guidance in developing a diverse and inclusive workforce.

The Department of Technology partners with state, local governments and educational entities to advance California’s technology and ensure secure, equitable and reliable solutions through effective policy and oversight, statewide strategies and innovative services.

The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration makes life better for Californians by fairly and efficiently collecting the revenue that supports our essential public services.

The Franchise Tax Board helps taxpayers file timely and accurate tax returns and pay the correct amount to fund services important to Californians.

The Public Employees' Retirement System delivers retirement and health care benefits to public employees and their beneficiaries.

The State Personnel Board provides an innovative, merit-based civil service system that fosters a talented and diverse state workforce to provide premier public service to all Californians.

The California Victim Compensation Board provides restorative financial assistance to victims of crime.

The Labor and Workforce Development Agency ensures safe and fair workplaces, delivers critical worker benefits and promotes good jobs for all.

The Employment Development Department enhances California’s economic growth and prosperity by collaboratively delivering valuable and innovative services to meet the evolving needs of employers, workers, and job seekers.

The State Compensation Insurance Fund supports California’s entrepreneurial spirit and plays a stabilizing role in the economy by providing fairly priced workers’ compensation insurance, making California workplaces safe and restoring injured workers. The state fund is California’s largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance and a vital asset to California businesses.

The Department of Industrial Relations improves working conditions for California's wage earners and advances opportunities for profitable employment in California. The department administers and enforces laws governing wages, hours and breaks, overtime, retaliation, workplace safety and health, apprenticeship training programs, medical care and other benefits for injured workers. It also publishes materials and holds workshops and seminars to promote healthy employment relations, conducts research to improve its programs and coordinates with other agencies to target egregious violators of labor laws and tax laws in the underground economy.

The Public Employment Relations Board administers the eight collective bargaining statutes covering employees of California's public schools, colleges and universities, employees of the State of California, employees of California local public agencies (cities, counties and special districts), trial court employees, trial court interpreters, employees covered by the In-Home Supportive Services Employer-Employee Relations Act, and supervisory employees of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

The Employment Training Panel partners with California businesses to create and retain high wage jobs while providing workers the opportunity to train for career advancement.

The Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board protects the rights of California’s employers and unemployed or disabled workers. As an independent administrative judicial agency, it resolves disputed unemployment, disability and tax determinations promptly and efficiently.

The Workforce Development Board partners with employers, local workforce development boards, education partners, community organizations, labor unions and workers statewide to increase quality job opportunities for all Californians. Working in collaboration with the governor, the board’s team shapes workforce policies, programs and investments that strengthen California’s economy. Together, these partnerships keep the state workforce system responsive to the changing needs of California businesses and communities.

The Office of Emergency Services protects lives and property, builds capabilities and supports communities for a resilient California.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilitates the successful reintegration of the individuals in our care back to their communities equipped with the tools to be drug-free, healthy, and employable members of society by providing education, treatment, rehabilitative, and restorative justice programs, all in a safe and humane environment.

The Board of State and Community Corrections provides statewide leadership, coordination and technical assistance to promote effective state and local efforts and partnerships in California's adult and juvenile criminal justice system. This includes addressing gang problems as well as promoting legal and safe conditions for youth, inmates and staff in local detention facilities.

The Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training enhances the professionalism of California law enforcement in serving its communities. Recognizing that effective law enforcement is the cornerstone of a free and safe society, the commission is committed to a vision of the future that ensures quality, integrity, accountability and cooperation; encourages new ideas; explores and uses appropriate technologies; and delivers relevant, client-based programs and services.

The California Department of Education creates strong, effective schools that provide a wholesome learning environment through incentives that cause a high standard of student accomplishment as measured by a valid, reliable accountability system.

The California Community Colleges, with 2.2 million students attending 116 colleges, provide students with the knowledge and background necessary to compete in today’s economy.

The California State University system advances and extends knowledge, learning and culture across California by providing accessible, high-quality undergraduate and graduate education that develops individuals intellectually, personally and professionally; prepares educated and responsible graduates for contributions to the state’s schools, economy and society; offers degree programs in the liberal arts, sciences, applied fields and professions up to the doctoral level when authorized; prepares students for participation in a diverse and international society; and provides public service that benefits its campuses and surrounding communities.

First 5 California convenes, partners in, supports and helps lead the movement to create and implement a comprehensive, integrated, and coordinated system for California's children prenatal through age 5 and their families. It promotes, supports and optimizes early childhood development.

The University of California provides high-quality public higher education by advancing teaching, conducting research that expands knowledge and innovation, and serving the people of California and the broader world through the application of that knowledge for the public good.

The Student Aid Commission promotes educational equity by making postsecondary education affordable for all Californians.

The Department of Food and Agriculture safeguards a resilient food system and promotes an equitable marketplace, cultivating a California grown food supply that is globally recognized for innovation, quality and sustainability.

The Horse Racing Board ensures the integrity, viability and safety of the California horse racing industry by regulating pari-mutuel wagering for the protection of the public, promoting horse racing, breeding and wagering opportunities, and fostering safe racing through the development and enforcement of track safety standards and regulations for the health and welfare of all participants.

The Agricultural Labor Relations Board ensures peace in the fields of California’s farms by guaranteeing justice for all agricultural workers and stability in agricultural labor relations. The board seeks to achieve these ends by providing orderly processes for protecting, implementing and enforcing the respective rights and responsibilities of employees, employers and labor organizations in their relations with each other.

The California Energy Commission advances state energy policy, encourages energy efficiency, certifies power plants, invests in energy innovation, develops renewable energy, transforms transportation and prepares for energy emergencies.

The Public Utilities Commission empowers California through access to safe, clean and affordable utility services and infrastructure.

The California Independent System Operator manages the flow of electricity across high-voltage, long-distance power lines. It operates a competitive wholesale energy market that promotes lower costs and renewable resources as well as oversees transmission planning to maximize efficiency and reliability.)

The Department of Finance serves as the governor's chief fiscal policy advisor and promotes long-term fiscal sustainability and responsible resource allocation through the state's annual financial plan.

The Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank provides financial assistance to support infrastructure and economic development in California.

The Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development serves as California’s single point of contact for economic development and job creation efforts. GO-Biz offers a range of services to business owners including attraction, retention and expansion services, site selection, permit streamlining, clearing of regulatory hurdles, small business assistance, international trade development, assistance with state government and much more.

The California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority works with public and private partners to provide innovative and effective financing solutions for California’s industries. It assists in reducing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the development and deployment of renewable energy sources, promotes energy efficiency and advanced transportation and manufacturing technologies to reduce air pollution, conserve energy and promote economic development and jobs.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs serves and honors all California veterans by connecting them and their families with their earned benefits through education, advocacy and direct services.

The Military Department improves, prepares and protects California communities, the state and the nation. The organization is a diverse, community-based organization comprised of four pillars: the California Army National Guard, the California Air National Guard, the California State Military Reserve and the California Youth and Community Programs.

The California Army National Guard organizes, trains, equips and resources community-based land forces. On order, it mobilizes to support state and/or federal authority.

The Fair Political Practices Commission promotes the integrity of state and local government in California through fair, impartial interpretation and enforcement of political campaign, lobbying and conflict of interest laws.

The Citizens Redistricting Commission draws the district lines in conformity with strict, nonpartisan rules designed to create districts of relatively equal population that will provide fair representation for all Californians.

The Little Hoover Commission investigates state government operations and policy, and through reports and legislative proposals, make recommendations to the governor and legislature to promote economy, efficiency and improved service in state operations.

The State Lands Commission provides the people of California with effective stewardship of the lands, waterways and resources entrusted to its care based on the principles of equity, sustainability and resiliency, through preservation, restoration, enhancement, responsible economic development and the promotion of public access.

The California Arts Council strengthens arts, culture and creative expression as the tools to cultivate a better California for all.

The California Science Center aspires to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun and memorable experiences. It values science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people's lives.

The Ocean Protection Council works jointly with state and federal agencies, NGOs, tribes and the public to ensure that California maintains healthy, resilient, and productive ocean and coastal ecosystems.

The California Privacy Protection Agency is responsible for the implementation and administrative enforcement of the nation’s first comprehensive consumer privacy law, the California Consumer Privacy Act. The agency promotes public awareness and understanding of the risks, responsibilities and rights in relation to the collection, use and disclosure of Californians’ personal information, and provides guidance to consumers and businesses on complex matters relating to online privacy, cybersecurity and automated decision-making, among other duties.

The Commission on Aging serves as the principal advocacy body for older Californians and a catalyst for change that supports and celebrates Californians as they age.

The Commission on the Status of Women and Girls works in a culturally inclusive manner to promote equality and justice for all women and girls by advocating on their behalf with the governor, the legislature and other public policymakers. It educates the public in the areas of economic equity including educational equity, access to health care, reproductive choice, violence against women and other key issue areas identified by the commission as significantly affecting women and girls.