Frequently Asked Questions


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Applications, Supplemental Information Forms, and Live Scan:

1) I have a question regarding the submission of an application or the fees associated.

2) Supplemental Information Form - Subsection 4: Criminal Convictions/Pending, Current and Past Litigation and Arbitration.

    Do I need to disclose a conviction that occurred over 5, 10, 15 or 20 years ago?

      YES. As stated in the Supplement Information form, you are required to disclose any and all criminal convictions regardless of the date of the conviction, no matter how old the conviction is. For more information regarding the criminal history portion of the Supplemental Information Form, please reference the Commission's educational video titled "Criminal Convictions Background Overview" found HERE.


3) Do I need to disclose a conviction if I had it reduced, expunged, or dismissed?

    YES. As stated in the Supplement Information Form, you are required to disclose any and all criminal convictions regardless if the conviction has been reduced, expunged or dismissed. For more information regarding the criminal history portion of the Supplemental Information Form, please reference the Commission's educational video titled, "Criminal Convictions Background Overview" found HERE.


4) Do I need to disclose a traffic violation where I only received a ticket?

    It is the applicant's responsibility to verify the circumstances and status of all crimes. A traffic violation, even those where only a ticket was received, may be a misdemeanor conviction. If unsure, an applicant should err on the side of over disclosing. For more information regarding the criminal history portion of the Supplemental Information Form, please reference the Commission's educational video titled, "Criminal Convictions Background Overview" found HERE.


5) Supplemental Information Form - Section 9: Business Interest – Non-Gaming Related. Do I have to disclose a business where I have less than 1% interest?

    Yes, if you've held the interest within the last 10 years. The supplemental form requires applicants to list any non-gaming related business entity within the last 10 years.


6) Should a Spousal Information Form (CGCC-CH2-12) be submitted when renewing my owner category license? What if I am not married?

    Yes, a completed Spousal Information form is required to be submitted with every owner category license renewal application even if the applicant is not married. However, should the applicant determine that certain fields on the form do not apply, the applicant can write 'N/A' (not applicable) on the form, sign, and submit.


7) Where can I find a Live Scan location?

    You may find a live scan location in your area HERE. Please keep in mind that fees vary from location to location.


8) Are fingerprints required at renewal time?

    Yes, all applicants who are residents of the State of California are required to submit a Live Scan along with your renewal application. If an applicant is a not a resident of the State of California, then two applicant fingerprint cards are required. Live Scan is a system for the electronic submission of fingerprints and the subsequent automated background checks and responses. The forms for a Live Scan are on the Commission's "Forms" page HERE. Live Scans are performed at the Department of Justice's approved locations found HERE. Fingerprint cards have a similar purpose but utilize forms provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and require the assistance of the Bureau of Gambling Control.


9) Does my spouse need to get live scanned/fingerprinted?

    Yes.


10) Why does my spouse need to get live scanned/fingerprinted?

    A spouse needs to submit fingerprints to ensure they are not a threat to the public interest, which would/could have an impact on the license application.


11) What is my Associated Owner Category Licensee (first page of CGCC-CH2-04 and CGCC-CH2-10)?

    The Associated Owner Category Licensee is the TPPPS/Gambling Establishment an applicant is employed by.


12) Do I have to disclose information related to my conviction, employment, residential, and licensing history if I previously provided it to the Bureau on a prior application, but I don't currently have a valid license?

    If an applicant does not have a currently valid license, then they must disclose all information requested on the application and supplemental, even if it was previously disclosed to the Bureau


13) Do I need to disclose a termination from a previous employer?

    Yes, if you were terminated from an employer within the last 10 years, you are required to disclose the termination and provide a clear statement for the reason for leaving.


14) What is an employment agreement? What if I don't have one?

    An employment agreement is an agreement between an employee and the employer for the purposes of laying out the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of both parties. If no agreement exists, please indicate "N/A" on the supplemental information form.


15) Do I need to submit an Appointment of Designated Agent form even if I do not have a Designated Agent?

    No. A form is only required if you wish to appoint a Designated Agent.


16) Tribal Key Employee - If I've already disclosed information (termination, conviction, etc.) to my gaming office or Tribal Gaming Agency (TGA), do I need to disclose it in the Supplemental Information Form?

    Yes, even though your TGA is aware of your information, you still need to answer all questions on the Supplemental Information Form completely and accurately.


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Bingo:

1) How can I start a Bingo Game/Hall?

    The California Gambling Control Commission does not regulate Bingo. As a result you will need to inquire with your local jurisdiction.


2) If I have a Bingo related issue, who do I contact?

    Bingo is regulated and enforced by local law enforcement.


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Cardrooms:

1) Is there a moratorium on Cardrooms?

2) Is there a list of Cardrooms for sale?

    The Commission does not have a list of cardrooms for sale. Click HERE to view a list of current cardrooms with active licenses as well as the cardrooms that hold an active license, but currently are not in operation.


3) How do I request additional tables for my Cardroom?

    Before submitting a request for additional tables, consult your local jurisdiction's gambling ordinance to ensure that the request for additional tables does not violate the limits set by the ordinance or the requirements of existing relevant statutes.

    The moratorium on the expansion of gambling expired January 1, 2023. Your local jurisdiction may amend its gambling ordinance to increase the amount of gaming tables allowed in the jurisdiction. However, per Business and Professions Code section 19961, in order for the local jurisdiction to expand gaming within its jurisdiction, the expansion may require an electoral vote.

    Before submitting a request for additional tables, consult your local jurisdiction's gambling ordinance to ensure that the request for additional tables does not violate the limits set by the ordinance. The Commission is unable to grant approvals to applicants who are not in compliance with state, federal, and local laws.

    If the request for additional tables complies with all local, state and federal laws, submit a completed Cardroom Business License: Gaming Tables (CGCC-CH7-07, Rev 02/21) form to the Bureau of Gambling Control (Bureau). All forms can be found on the Commission's website HERE.

    Once the Bureau has completed its review, the request will be sent to the Commission for review. Commission staff will schedule the request to be heard at a public meeting by the Commissioners, who will consider and act on the request.


4) I would like to change the name of my Cardroom, what will I need to do?

5) Can I buy a Cardroom from a current owner?

    A person (or entity) can enter into a Purchase Agreement to purchase a cardroom business or a portion of the business. This requires that the interested party submit to the Bureau of Gambling Control the proper documentation along with all of the appropriate fees. The Purchase Agreement/Transaction must be approved by the Commission. For additional information you may contact the Bureau of Gambling Control at (916) 830-1700.


6) If I buy a Cardroom from a current owner, can I move the cardroom to a different location?

    Yes, you can with limitations. The relocation must be investigated by the Bureau of Gambling Control and subsequently approved by the Commission prior to resuming operations in a new location. You need to complete the following form: Notice of Relocation (CGCC-CH7-02, Rev. 01/21) which can be found on the Commission's website HERE.


7) Can I open a new Cardroom?

    Following the expiration of the moratorium on January 1, 2023, there are several steps applicants must take before opening a cardroom.

    Before submitting an application for a State Gambling License to own and operate a new Cardroom, consult your local jurisdiction and ensure the following:

    • Does your local jurisdiction have a gambling ordinance?
    • Does the gambling ordinance in place allow for an additional Cardroom?
    • Does the gambling ordinance in place allow for additional gaming tables?
    • Does the gambling ordinance comply with the requirements of Business and Professions Code section 19860?
    • Was an election required in order to amend the local ordinance pursuant to Business and Professions Code sections 19960 and 19961? If so, did the required election take place? And if the ordinance amendments were approved, have they gone into effect?
    • Have you received all necessary local approvals to open a new cardroom?

    Once all proper checks and approvals at the local level have been completed, you must obtain approval from the Commission as a licensed owner to operate a cardroom.

    For those considering submitting an application for a new State Gambling License, applicants must be found suitable by the Commission, and part of that suitability includes the applicants obtaining all relevant approvals from the local jurisdiction in which they plan to own and operate a Cardroom. The Commission is unable to grant approvals to applicants who are not in compliance with the local ordinance.

    For those considering submitting an application, please go to the Commission's Forms webpage. An application for Owner Category License (CGCC-CH2-05), Spousal Information for (CGCC-CH2-12), and the appropriate Supplemental Information Form (Business Entity, Individual/Principle, or Trust) must be completed and submitted to the Bureau.


8) Whom do I contact if a licensee (Cardroom Owner, Key Employee, Third-Party Provider Owner, Supervisor, or Worker, etc.) has passed away?

9) Whom do I contact for a follow-up compliance site visit?

    The Bureau of Gambling Control is the agency responsible for ensuring compliance. Please call (916) 830-1700 for assistance.


10) How do I request conditions be removed from my License, Commission Work Permit, or Finding of Suitability?

    You may submit your request in writing by contacting your assigned Bureau of Gambling Control Licensing Analyst. If you do not know your assigned analyst, please email gamblingcontrol@doj.ca.gov or call (916) 830-1700.


11) Where can I view the conditions placed on my License?

    You can view the current conditions place on your license on the Commission's website HERE.


12) How do I obtain a Commission Work Permit?

    First, work with your hiring agency on the requirements for obtaining a Commission Work Permit. The Commission is responsible for issuing Commission Work Permits in jurisdictions where the local jurisdiction (city and/or county) does not issue them. Applications for Commission Work Permits (CGCC-CH2-04, New 05/20 & CGCC-CH2-10, New 5/20) can be found on the Commission's website HERE: For more information regarding submitting an application, please reference the Commission's educational video titled, "Understanding the Application and Background Process" found HERE.


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Commission Meetings:

1) How can I be notified of upcoming Commission meetings?

    Meeting dates are posted on the Commission's website on the Commission Meetings webpage. You may request to receive the meeting agenda notices via electronic mail by subscription on the Commission's website HERE. In addition, you may submit your request by calling (916) 263-0700, faxing to (916) 263-0452 or writing to the Commission at the following address:

    California Gambling Control Commission
    2399 Gateway Oaks Dr. Suite 220
    Sacramento, CA 95833-4231


2) I have been notified that I am scheduled to be considered at an upcoming Commission Meeting, what should I do next? Am I required to attend?

    a) You may contact the Commission by emailing Licensinginfo@cgcc.ca.gov or calling the Commission's Licensing Line at (916) 263-6292 to confirm attendance or request further information. In addition, if you are represented by a Designated Agent, you should speak to the Designated Agent prior to the Commission Meeting.

    b) You are encourage to attend the Commission Meeting that your application is scheduled to be considered. Non-attendance may result in a delay of action on your application if further information is needed or requested by a Commissioner.


3) I was approved at a Commission Meeting, what should I expect next?

    You and/or your Designated Agent will be notified in writing of the outcome of the Commission Meeting.


4) Will I be notified when my application is being considered by the Commission?

    Yes, you and/or your designated agent will receive written notification from the Commission with the date and time that your application will be considered.


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Complaints:

1) Where can I file a complaint?

    For information on filing a complaint, please click HERE.


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Evidentiary Hearing:

1) My License has been referred to a Gambling Control Act (GCA) or Administrative Procedures Act (APA) evidentiary hearing. What happens next?

    a) If your matter has been referred to a GCA evidentiary hearing, you will be contacted by Commission Legal staff about scheduling your evidentiary hearing at the contact number and/or address you provided.

    b) If your matter has been referred to an APA evidentiary hearing, you will be contacted by the Indian Gaming and Law Section (IGLS) for further information and scheduling.

    c) For more information regarding and additional pre-hearing, hearing, and post-hearing FAQs, please visit the Commission's Administrative Hearings webpage.


2) What is the appeal process if an application is denied?

    If your application has been denied, you will receive a written decision that discloses your appeal options. These include request reconsideration of the decision within 30 days of service under Title 4, CCR section 12064, as well as seeking review with the court under Business and Professions Code section 19870(e).


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License Verifications:

1) I need to submit a Licensing Verification to the Commission. What should I do?

2) How can I check the status of my license?

    To search the license database please click HERE.


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Regulations/Rulemaking:

1) Where can I obtain a summary of the Commission's past regulatory actions?

    The Index of Rulemaking Files found on the Regulations page of the Commission's website includes a summary of each of the Commission's past regulatory actions.


2) Where can I obtain the Commission's regulations that are in effect?

    The Commission's current regulations may be accessed through the Regulations tab of the Commission's website. There is also a link on that page to the publication, California Gambling Law; Regulations and Resource Information, published by the Commission. A hardcopy of the publication may be requested directly by contacting the Division of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at lawsandregs@cgcc.ca.gov or by phone at (916) 263-0700.


3) How can members of the public obtain information about proposed regulations and regulation changes?

    The Commission maintains mailing lists of interested parties who have asked to receive information on regulatory actions, including; regulation workshop invitations, regulation hearing notices, and other rulemaking (regulation) information and documents. The rulemaking lists are NOT used for mailing regular Commission meeting notices, agendas or minutes. If you are not already on one of the Commission's rulemaking mailing lists and wish to be added, you can sign up by entering the applicable information on the Rulemaking Mailing List Email Subscription page of the Commission's website.


4) How can members of the public participate in the rulemaking process?

    The Commission encourages anyone who wishes to participate in the rulemaking process to participate. You may submit written comments relevant to a specific regulation proposal during the written comment period by letter or e-mail. There is a link on the Proposed Regulations page of the Commission's website that may be used to submit comments by e-mail. You may also attend and participate at any public meeting. All upcoming rulemaking meetings, workshops, hearings and informational links for proposed regulations can be found on the Commission's Home Page, or this information may be accessed through the Regulations tab.


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Self Restriction/Self-Exclusion:

1) How can I request a self-restriction, self-exclusion, or request to remove my self-exclusion?

    Please see the "Responsible Gambling Forms" found HERE. The forms contain instructions and contact information. For more information, please click HERE.


2) What can I self-restrict myself from?

    Self-restriction is an agreement to have restricted access to specific gambling establishments, or to the issuance of credit, check cashing, or marketing, from a particular licensed cardroom. Self-Restriction periods are dictated by individual cardrooms and can vary from cardroom to cardroom. All Self-Restriction forms are kept and maintained in the individual cardrooms. For more information, please click HERE.


3) Is self-restriction and exclusion permanent?

    Self-restriction is an irrevocable, voluntary agreement to have restricted access to specific gambling establishments, or to the issuance of credit, check cashing, or marketing, from a particular licensed cardroom. Self-exclusions can be removed by submitting a Self-Exclusion Removal Request form found HERE. For more information, please click HERE.


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Special Distribution Fund (SDF) and Revenue Sharing Trust Fund (RSTF):

1) Where do I send my quarterly contribution; and, to whom do I make it payable?

    Send to: California Gambling Control Commission
                     2399 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 220
                     Sacramento, CA 95833-4231

    Payable to: California Gambling Control Commission


2) Where can I get financial information about cardrooms and Tribal casinos?

    Financial and revenue information for individual cardrooms and Tribal casinos is confidential and protected by law and the Tribal-State Gaming Compacts; therefore, Tribal financial information cannot be disclosed to the public. (Also see: Gambling Control Act 19819, 19821)


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Third Party:

1) Do I need to request and pay the $25 temporary badge fee in order to start working right away?

    An applicant can't work without a valid license or temporary license. If the applicant would like to work while they are going through the background investigation, they must request and receive a temporary license first. For more information regarding badges, please reference the Commissions' educational video titled "Badge Requirements", found HERE.


2) If I am not eligible for a temporary license, and I received a temporary license denial letter, can I still undergo the background process and be considered for a full employee license? Can I work as a TPPPS employee during this time?

    Yes, an applicant's application will still proceed and undergo a background investigation if they have been denied a temporary license unless the applicant requests, and is approved by the Commission, to withdrawal their license application. However, the applicant may not work in a capacity that requires licensure while they are waiting for their regular license to be considered by the Commission for approval.


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Tribal Key Employees:

1) What information do I need to submit and when?

    Tribal Key Employees should work directly with their Tribal Gaming Agency to ensure the appropriate information is submitted to the Bureau of Gambling Control timely.


2) If I've already disclosed information (termination, conviction, etc.) to my gaming office or Tribal Gaming Agency (TGA), do I need to disclose it in the Supplemental?

    Yes, even though your gaming office is aware of your information, you still need answer all questions on the Supplemental completely and accurately.


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Vendors/Gaming Resource Suppliers:

1) What is the difference between a Gaming Resource Supplier Finding of Suitability and a Manufacturer or Distributor of Gambling Equipment Registration?

    A Gaming Resource Supplier Finding of Suitability allows a business to provide products and services to a California Tribal Casino. A Manufacturer or Distributor of Gambling Equipment Registration allows a business to distribute, sell, lease, inspect, test, repair, refurbish or store gambling equipment in California or for use in California.


2) When should a Gaming Resource Supplier send their initial application for finding of suitability?

    A Gaming Resources Supplier (as referred to as a vendor) should send their initial application to the Bureau after obtaining a gaming license from at least one California Tribal Gaming Agency and conducting at least $25,000 within a 12-month period in business with that agency.


3) Where can I view the Conditions placed on my Finding of Suitability?

    You can view the current conditions place on your license on the Commission's website HERE.


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