Navigating the Gambling Licensing Maze: Who to Call and What to Expect in California’s Regulatory Process

For anyone seeking a gambling license or work permit in California, the process can feel like a regulatory maze. But thanks to clear guidance from the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) and the Bureau of Gambling Control (BGC), applicants now have a comprehensive roadmap—and know exactly who to call at each step of the way.

Two Agencies, Two Roles: Knowing Who Handles What

The CGCC and BGC share responsibility for regulating the state’s gambling industry, but they serve distinctly different functions:

• The Bureau of Gambling Control (BGC) — a division of the California Department of Justice — is the first stop in the licensing process. The Bureau handles:

  • Intake and review of applications

  • Conducting background checks

  • Evaluating an applicant’s suitability

  • Compliance and enforcement

  • Self-exclusion programs

• The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) takes over after the BGC’s investigation is complete. The Commission:

  • Reviews reports and recommendations from the Bureau

  • Holds public meetings to consider licensing and transaction decisions

  • Issues licenses and imposes conditions

  • Handles appeals, hearings, and regulations

Applicants are encouraged to contact the Bureau with questions about background checks, pending applications, or enforcement issues. For licensing decisions, conditions, or upcoming Commission meetings, applicants should reach out to the Commission.

Step-by-Step: From Application to Decision

According to the CGCC’s updated guide, the licensing process is detailed and multi-staged:

1. Application Submission: Download and complete forms from the CGCC website and submit them, along with payment, to the BGC.

2. Intake Review: The BGC reviews submissions for completeness and may request more information.

3. Background Investigation: The BGC performs a deep dive into the applicant’s personal and financial history to assess suitability.

4. Recommendation Sent: The Bureau sends its findings and recommendation to the Commission’s Licensing Division.

5. Commission Review: The Licensing Division may request clarification and prepares its own recommendation.

6. Meeting Preparation: A Licensing Analyst notifies applicants about the public meeting where their application will be considered.

7. Commission Meeting: Held twice monthly, these meetings allow applicants to address Commissioners directly.

8. Commission Decision: Applications may be approved, denied, or referred to an evidentiary hearing.

9. Post-Meeting Communication: Applicants receive written confirmation of the decision. Licenses or permits are issued accordingly.

Contact Information At a Glance

• California Gambling Control Commission

  • Address: 2399 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 220, Sacramento, CA 95833

  • Phone: 916-263-6292 (Licensing Division)

  • Email: [email protected]

• Website: www.cgcc.ca.gov

• Department of Justice – Bureau of Gambling Control

  • Address: 2450 Del Paso Road, Sacramento, CA 95834

  • Phone: 916-830-1700

  • Email: [email protected]

Clearer Pathways, Greater Transparency

The coordinated efforts of the Commission and Bureau reflect California’s continued commitment to responsible gambling oversight. Whether you’re a new applicant or a current licensee seeking renewal, understanding this dual-agency process is crucial to maintaining compliance and ensuring a smooth application experience.

For licensing updates and meeting schedules, visit the CGCC website or follow the Commission’s agenda postings.