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Running for Office General Qualifications

General Qualifications and Campaign Finance

 

Understand the requirements for campaign finance filings, and the Orange County Campaign Reform Ordinance ►

Choose an office for more information:

 

Member, Community College District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, Community College District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a resident of the school district;
  • be a resident of the trustee area for the office he/she is seeking, if applicable;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • not be disqualified by the Constitution or laws of the State from holding a civil office;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • not be an employee of a school district at the time sworn into office as an elected or appointed member of that school district's governing board.

Steps to Become a Member, Community College District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, Community College District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, Community College District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

 

Member, High School District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, High School District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a resident of the school district;
  • be a resident of the trustee area for the office he/she is seeking, if applicable;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • not be disqualified by the Constitution or laws of the State from holding a civil office;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • not be an employee of a school district at the time sworn into office as an elected or appointed member of that school district's governing board.

Steps to Become a Member, High School District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, High School District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, High School District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, Unified School District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, Unified School District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a resident of the school district;
  • be a resident of the trustee area for the office he/she is seeking, if applicable;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • not be disqualified by the Constitution or laws of the State from holding a civil office;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • not be an employee of a school district at the time sworn into office as an elected or appointed member of that school district's governing board.

Steps to Become a Member, Unified School District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, Unified School District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, High School District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, Elementary School District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, Elementary School District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a resident of the school district;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • not be disqualified by the Constitution or laws of the State from holding a civil office;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • not be an employee of a school district at the time sworn into office as an elected or appointed member of that school district's governing board.

Steps to Become a Member, Elementary School District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, Elementary School District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, Elementary School District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Community Services District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Community Services District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a “registered elector” residing within the district at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Community Services District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Community Services District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Community Services District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Irrigation District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Irrigation District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter and landowner in the district and a resident of the division represented through his/her entire term at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office; residing within the district;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Irrigation District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Irrigation District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Irrigation District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Park and Recreation District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Park and Recreation District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a qualified registered voter in the district at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Park and Recreation District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Park and Recreation District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Park and Recreation District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Sanitary District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Sanitary District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a “resident elector” in the district at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Sanitary District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Sanitary District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Sanitary District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Storm Water Protection District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Storm Water Protection District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a freeholder of the district and shall have resided in the district one year preceding election; provided that when unincorporated territory is included with incorporated territory, at least one trustee shall be an eligible freeholder of the unincorporated territory, if such there be residing in said district;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Storm Water Protection District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Storm Water Protection District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Storm Water Protection District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, California Water Districts:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, California Water District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter in the district or division, if any, at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, California Water District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, California Water District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, California Water District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Orange County Independent Water District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Orange County Independent Water District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a resident of the district;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Orange County Independent Water District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Orange County Independent Water District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Orange County Independent Water District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, Municipal Water District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, Municipal Water District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter in the district or division, if any, at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, Municipal Water District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, Municipal Water District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, Municipal Water District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Trustee, Library District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Trustee, Library District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter in the district at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Trustee, Library District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Trustee, Library District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Trustee, Library District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, County Central Committee:

Election: Presidential Primary Elections

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, County Central Committee must:

  • be a registered voter and otherwise qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued to the person;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • a citizen of the state;
  • be registered as affiliated with the political party of that committee at the time of his/her appointment or election;
  • be affiliated with the political party of the nomination for which he/she seeks at the time of presentation of the Declaration of Candidacy and continuously for not less than twelve months immediately prior to that time;
  • not have been registered as affiliated with a qualified political party other than that political party the nomination of which he/she seeks within 12 months immediately prior to the filing of the Declaration of Candidacy;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.  

Steps to Become a Member, County Central Committee:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, County Central Committee candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Member, County Central Committee. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, County Central Committee must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, County Board of Education:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, County Board of Education must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for the office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be an elector of the trustee area which he/she represents;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • not be the County Superintendent of Schools, any member of his/her staff, or any employee of a school district.

Steps to Become a Member, County Board of Education Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, County Board of Education candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Member, County Board of Education. The number of signatures required for a Member, County Board of Education candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, County Board of Education must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Judge of the Superior Court:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Six years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Judge of the Superior Court must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered vote;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • have been a member of the State Bar or served as a judge of a court of record in this state for ten years immediately preceding selection;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Judge of the Superior Court Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Judge of the Superior Court candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for Judge of the Superior Court must complete a Special Qualifications form for the District Attorney portion of the position. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for Judge of the Superior Court. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Declaration of Intention (Mandatory): All candidates for Judge of the Superior Court must file a Declaration of Intention in which he/she states his/her intention to become a candidate for a specific judicial office. The Declaration of Intention is public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Judge of the Superior Court, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Judge of the Superior Court. The number of signatures required for a Judge of the Superior Court candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Judge of the Superior Court must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two consecutive four year terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter;
  • have been a registered voter in the district which he/she seeks to represent for at least 30 days immediately preceding the deadline for filing Nomination Papers for the office;
  • reside in the district during his/her incumbency;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.   

Steps to Become a Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors. The number of signatures required for a Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Assessor :

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Assessor must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • possess a valid appraiser’s certificate issued by the State Board of Equalization pursuant to Article 8, commencing with Section 670 of Chapter 3 of Part 2 of Division 1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. Or, acquire, notwithstanding Government Code section 24002.5(a), for a period not to exceed one year, a temporary appraiser’s certificate from the State Board of Equalization no later than 30 days after taking office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State. 

Steps to Become a County Assessor Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Assessor candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for County Assessor must complete a Special Qualifications form. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for County Assessor. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Assessor, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Assessor. The number of signatures required for a County Assessor candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Assessor must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Auditor-Controller:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Auditor-Controller must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue;
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • meet at least one of the following criteria:

1. The person possesses a valid certificate issued by the California Board
of Accountancy under Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 5000) of
Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code showing the person
to be, and a permit authorizing the person to practice as, a certified
public accountant or as a public accountant.

2. The person possesses a baccalaureate degree from an accredited
university, college, or other four-year institution, with a major in
accounting or its equivalent, as described in subdivision (a) of Section
5081.1 of the Business and Professions Code, and has served a
county, city or other public agency, a private firm, or a nonprofit
organization, dealing with similar fiscal responsibilities, for a continuous
period of not less than three years.

3. The person possesses a certificate issued by the Institute of Internal
Auditors showing the person to be a designated professional internal
auditor, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their
equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.

4. The person has served as county auditor, chief deputy county auditor,
or chief assistant county auditor for a continuous period of not less than
three years. 

Steps to Become a County Auditor-Controller Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Auditor-Controller candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for County Auditor-Controller must complete a Special Qualifications form. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for County Auditor. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Auditor-Controller, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Auditor-Controller. The number of signatures required for a County Auditor-Controller candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Auditor-Controller must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Clerk-Recorder:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Clerk-Recorder must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a County Clerk-Recorder Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Clerk-Recorder candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Clerk-Recorder, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Clerk-Recorder. The number of signatures required for a County Clerk-Recorder candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Clerk-Recorder must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

 

County District Attorney-Public Administrator :

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County District Attorney-Public Administrator must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be eligible to practice in the Supreme Court of the State;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State. 

Steps to Become a County District Attorney-Public Administrator:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County District Attorney-Public Administrator candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for County District Attorney-Public Administrator must complete a Special Qualifications form. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for County District Attorney-Public Administrator. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County District Attorney-Public Administrator, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County District Attorney-Public Administrator. The number of signatures required for a County District Attorney-Public Administrator candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County District Attorney-Public Administrator must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Sheriff-Coroner:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Sheriff-Coroner must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • meet one of the following criteria:
  • An active or inactive advanced certificate issued by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.
  • One year of full-time, salaried law enforcement experience within the provisions of section 830.1 or 830.2 of the Penal Code at least a portion of which shall have been accomplished within five years prior to the date of filing, and possesses a master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Two years of full-time, salaried law enforcement experience within the provisions of section 830.1 or 830.2 of the Penal Code at least a portion of which shall have been accomplished within five years prior to the date of filing, and possesses a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Three years of full-time, salaried law enforcement experience within the provisions of section 830.1 or 830.2 of the Penal Code at least a portion of which shall have been accomplished within five years prior to the date of filing, and possesses an associate in arts or associate in science degree, or the equivalent, from an accredited college.
  • Four years of full-time, salaried law enforcement experience within the provisions of section 830.1 or 830.2 of the Penal Code at least a portion of which shall have been accomplished within five years prior to the date of filing, and possesses a high school diploma or the equivalent.

Steps to Become a County Sheriff-Coroner Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Sheriff-Coroner candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for County Sheriff-Coroner must complete a Special Qualifications form. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for County Sheriff-Coroner. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Sheriff-Coroner, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Sheriff-Coroner. The number of signatures required for a County Sheriff-Coroner candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Sheriff-Coroner must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Treasurer-Tax Collector:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Treasurer-Tax Collector must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State; and
  • meet one of the following criteria: 
  • Served in a senior financial management position in a county, city, or other public agency dealing with similar financial responsibilities for a continuous period of not less than three years, including, but not limited to, treasurer, tax collector, auditor auditor-controller, or the chief deputy or an assistant in those offices.
  • Possesses a valid baccalaureate, masters, or doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in any of the following major fields of study: Business administration, public administration, economics, finance, accounting, or a related field, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.
  • Possesses a valid certificate issued by the California State Board of Accountancy, showing that person to be, and a permit authorizing that person to practice as, a certified public accountant.
  • Possesses a valid charter issued by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts showing the person to be designated a Chartered Financial Analyst, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.
  • Possesses a valid certificate issued by the Treasury Management Association showing the person to be designated a Certified Cash Manager, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.  

Steps to Become a County Treasurer-Tax Collector Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Treasurer-Tax Collector candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Special Qualifications Form (Mandatory): A candidate for County Treasurer-Tax Collector must complete a Special Qualifications form. By signing this document, under penalty of perjury, the candidate is stating that he/she meets the special qualifications for County Treasurer-Tax Collector. The Special Qualifications Form is public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Treasurer-Tax Collector, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Treasurer-Tax Collector. The number of signatures required for a County Treasurer-Tax Collector candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Treasurer-Tax Collector must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

County Superintendent of Schools:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years if no candidate in the Primary Election received 50% +1 of the votes cast.

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for County Superintendent of Schools must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • possess a valid credential issued by the State Board of Education;
  • possess a valid certification document authorizing Administrative Services, and for the purposes of this section, the possession of a valid elementary administrative credential and a valid secondary administrative credential are equivalent to the possession of a valid general administrative credential;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State. 

Steps to Become a Member, County Superintendent of Schools Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a County Superintendent of Schools candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for County Superintendent of Schools, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for County Superintendent of Schools. The number of signatures required for a County Superintendent of Schools candidate is 20-40. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for County Superintendent of Schools must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Governor:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Governor must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought and may not hold another office;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.  

Steps to Become a Gubernatorial Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Gubernatorial candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Gubernatorial candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Governor, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Governor. The number of signatures required for a Gubernatorial candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Governor must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Governor may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.
  • Income Tax Return Disclosure Requirement (Mandatory): A candidate for Governor shall file, no later than the candidate filing deadline, with the Secretary of State two (2) copies of every income tax return the candidate filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the five (5) most recent taxable years, one unredacted copy and another copy with required redactions.

Lieutenant Governor:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Lieutenant Governor must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for Lieutenant Governor:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Lieutenant Governor candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Lieutenant Governor candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Lieutenant Governor, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Lieutenant Governor. The number of signatures required for a Lieutenant Governor candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Lieutenant Governor must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so.  
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Lieutenant Governor may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate’s Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Secretary of State:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Secretary of State must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.  

Steps to Become a Candidate for Secretary of State:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Secretary of State candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Secretary of State candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Secretary of State, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Secretary of State. The number of signatures required for a Secretary of State candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Secretary of State must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so.
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Secretary of State may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

State Treasurer:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for State Treasurer must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for State Treasurer:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a State Treasurer candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a State Treasurer candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for State Treasurer, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for State Treasurer. The number of signatures required for a State Treasurer candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for State Treasurer must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for State Treasurer may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Controller:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Controller must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for Controller:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Controller candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Controller candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Controller, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Controller. The number of signatures required for a Controller candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Controller must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Controller may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Attorney General:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years  

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Attorney General must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms in the office sought;
  • have been admitted to practice before the California Supreme Court for a period of at least five years immediately preceding his/her election to the office.
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for Attorney General:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for an Attorney General candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset an Attorney General candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Attorney General, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Attorney General. The number of signatures required for an Attorney General candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Attorney General must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Attorney General may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Insurance Commissioner:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Insurance Commissioner must:

  • be a registered voter;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two four-year terms as Insurance Commissioner;
  • during tenure of office, may not be an officer, agent, or employee of an insurer or directly or indirectly interested in any insurer or licensee under the California Insurance Code, except (a) as a policyholder, or (b) by virtue of relationship by blood or marriage to any person interested in any insurer or licensee;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for Insurance Commissioner:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for an Insurance Commissioner candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset an Insurance Commissioner candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Insurance Commissioner, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Insurance Commissioner. The number of signatures required for an Insurance Commissioner candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Insurance Commissioner must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so.
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Insurance Commissioner may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member, State Board of Equalization:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member, State Board of Equalization must:

  • be a registered voter and qualified to vote for that office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of the district;
  • not have served more than two terms as a Member of the Board of Equalization;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for Member, State Board of Equalization:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member, State Board of Equalization candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Member, State Board of Equalization candidate’s Filing Fee is 4,406 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Member, State Board of Equalization, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Member, State Board of Equalization. The number of signatures required for a Member, State Board of Equalization candidate is
    40-60. The Nomination Papers are public record.
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record.
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member, State Board of Equalization must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record.
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so.
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for Member, State Board of Equalization may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years; maximum of two terms

Qualifications:
A candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction must:

  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be 18 years old by Election Day;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • be a resident of California;
  • not have served more than two terms as State Superintendent of Public Instruction;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by Visa or MasterCard, check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for. The number of signatures required for a State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for State Superintendent of Public Instruction must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so. 
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

State Senator:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for State Senator must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter in the district and qualified to vote for the office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • a resident of the state;
  • not have served more than two terms in the State Senate since November 6, 1990, if he or she was elected to the State Senate before June of 2012;
  • not have served more than 12 years in the State Senate, the Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms, if he or she was first elected to the Legislature after June of 2012 and has not previously served in the State Senate or Assembly, during his or her lifetime;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of a felony involving accepting or giving, or offering to give, any bribe, the embezzlement of public money, extortion or theft of public money, perjury, or conspiracy to commit any of those crimes.

Steps to Become a State Senate Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a State Senate candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a State Senate candidate’s Filing Fee is 2,000. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for State Senator, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for State Senate. The number of signatures required for a State Senate candidate is 40-60. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for State Senate must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Member of the Assembly:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Two years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Member of the Assembly must:

  • be 18 years of age by Election Day;
  • be a registered voter in the district and qualified to vote for the office at the time Nomination Papers are issued;
  • be a United States citizen;
  • a resident of the state;
  • not have served more than three terms in the State Assembly since November 6, 1990, if he or she was elected to the Assembly before June of 2012;
  • not have served more than 12 years in the State Senate, the Assembly, or both, in any combination of terms, if he or she was first elected to the Legislature after June of 2012 and has not previously served in the State Senate or Assembly, during his or her lifetime;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of a felony involving accepting or giving, or offering to give, any bribe, the embezzlement of public money, extortion or theft of public money, perjury, or conspiracy to commit any of those crimes.

Steps to Become a Member of the Assembly Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Member of the Assembly candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Member of the Assembly candidate’s Filing Fee is 1,000. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Member of the Assembly, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Member of the Assembly. The number of signatures required for a State Assembly candidate is 40-60. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Member of the Assembly must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

United States Senator:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Six years

Qualifications:
A candidate for United States Senator must:

  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be at least 30 years of age;
  • have been a United States citizen for nine years;
  • be a resident of California when elected;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a United States Senate Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a United States Senate candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a United States Senate candidate’s Filing Fee is 7,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for United States Senator, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for United States Senator. The number of signatures required for a United States Senate candidate is 65-100. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for United States Senator must file campaign finance reports and should contact the Federal Elections Commission for filing requirements for this office.  
  • Candidate’s Statement Deposit (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate for United States Senator chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the State’s Voter Information Guide, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office to ask for the deposit amount required to do so.  
  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate for United States Senator may prepare a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the State Voter Information Guide. A deposit is required to file the statement with the Secretary of State’s office. If a candidate wants to prepare a Candidate’s Statement, he/she should contact the Secretary of State’s office for more details. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing. 
  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Representative in Congress:

Election:
Primary Election of even-numbered years; run-off in General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Two years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Representative in Congress must:

  • be a registered voter at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be at least 25 years of age;
  • have been a United States citizen for seven years;
  • be a resident of California when elected;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounted provided by statue; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Representative in Congress Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Representative in Congress candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.
  • Signatures-in-Lieu of Filing Fee Petition (Optional): The process of circulating petitions to obtain signatures to offset the Filing Fee. The Filing Fee may be partially or entirely offset by this process. The number of Signatures-in-Lieu required to totally offset a Representative in Congress candidate’s Filing Fee is 2,000 signatures. The petitions are public record.
  • Filing Fee (Mandatory): To become a candidate for Representative in Congress, a person must pay a Filing Fee which is not refundable. The Filing Fee may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash. 
  • Nomination Papers (Mandatory): Nomination signatures must be obtained to become a candidate for Representative in Congress. The number of signatures required for a Representative in Congress candidate is 40-60. The Nomination Papers are public record. 
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record.
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Representative in Congress must file campaign finance reports and should contact the Federal Elections Commission for filing requirements for this office.
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Director, County Water District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Director, County Water District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter in the district or division, if any, at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Director, County Water District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Director, County Water District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Director, County Water District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.

Trustee, Library District Board:

Election:
General Election of even-numbered years

Length of Term:
Four years

Qualifications:
A candidate for Trustee, Library District Board must:

  • be 18 years old;
  • be a registered voter in the district at the time Nomination Papers are issued and qualified to vote for the office;
  • be a citizen of the state;
  • eligible to take the oath of office and be able to be bonded in the amounts provided for by statute; and
  • not have been convicted of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the State.

Steps to Become a Trustee, Library District Board Candidate:
The following are Candidate Filing steps for a Trustee, Library District Board candidate to complete (Note: Some of the steps are optional):

  • Candidate Information Statement (Mandatory): The candidate completes this document to provide basic information to the Registrar of Voters. The Candidate Information Statement is not public record.  
  • Ballot Designation Worksheet (Mandatory if Ballot Designation is desired): For a candidate to have a Ballot Designation printed on the ballot, he/she must complete a Ballot Designation Worksheet. It is optional for the candidate to have a Ballot Designation on the ballot, but if he/she wants to do so, the Ballot Designation Worksheet must be completed to support that designation. The Ballot Designation Worksheet and the Ballot Designation are public record. 
  • Code of Fair Campaign Practices (Optional): By subscribing to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices, a candidate vows to follow the principles of decency, honesty, and fair play. The Code of Fair Campaign Practices form is public record. 
  • Campaign Finance Reports (Mandatory): All candidates for Trustee, Library District Board must file campaign finance reports. A campaign finance kit is provided each election that provides details and deadlines. Campaign Finance Disclosure Statements are public record. 
  • Candidate’s Statement Cost (Mandatory if Candidate’s Statement is desired): If a candidate chooses to have a Candidate’s Statement printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide, he/she must pay to do so. The cost may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), check, money order, or cash.

  • Candidate’s Statement (Optional): A candidate may pay to submit a brief description of his/her background and qualifications to be printed in the County’s Voter Information Guide. The Candidate’s Statement is public record after the close of Candidate Filing.

  • Declaration of Candidacy (Mandatory): This is the final step of Candidate Filing. The Declaration of Candidacy is the document on which the candidate indicates how he/she wants his/her name to appear on the ballot and what Ballot Designation he/she desires, if any. It also contains the Oath of Office. The Declaration of Candidacy is public record.