The California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) celebrates Consumer Affairs Week, a week-long effort focused on demonstrating DCA’s mission to ensure protections for California consumers.
Across the 36 boards and bureaus that fall under DCA, consumers have multiple ways they can check the license status of one or more of the 3.4 million licensees in the state. The simplest way is to search for a license online at https://search.dca.ca.gov/. Consumers can also call DCA’s Consumer Information Center at 1-800-952-5210 to check a license. Finally, look for the license posted at the location, which may be a paper certificate, plaque, or larger signage. Don’t be afraid to check on the status of a licensee.
Licensees must go through a thorough application process before being granted a license by a board or bureau. Each board or bureau sets the qualifications for licensure, but generally include demonstrating competency in a field, submitting work and education history, and undergoing a criminal background check. Someone who is licensed has met board or bureau standards and is permitted to work under the standards set by DCA.
Inside the office of the DCA, employees for the individual boards and bureaus, along with the Division of Investigation, work to investigate complaints. If violations are found, license holders can face discipline that may include fines and citations, probation, suspension or revocation of a license.
The DCA offers information for consumers to access around the clock. Visit https://www.dca.ca.gov/consumers/index.shtml to see consumer resources, including how to file a complaint, and other helpful links.
For more information, visit dca.ca.gov. For helpful consumer-based videos, visit our YouTube page.
