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California Broker-Dealer Compliance
California is the largest RIA market in the U.S.. FIN Group provides fractional CCO services, Form BD filings, annual reviews, and exam support for Broker-Dealers operating here.
Who needs to register in California
Any Broker-Dealer with a principal place of business in California, or with clients located in California above the de minimis threshold, must register with the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) or — if eligible — with the SEC.
California-specific nuance
California requires the Form ADV Part 2A brochure, Form ADV Part 2B for each supervised person, and a $125 IARD initial filing fee plus annual renewal.
Regulator: California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI)
Annual obligations for Broker-Dealers
The core federal calendar that applies on top of California's requirements:
- Maintain FINRA membership and Form BD currency
- File quarterly FOCUS reports (Form X-17A-5)
- Maintain Written Supervisory Procedures (WSPs) covering all business lines
- Conduct annual Rule 3120 compliance testing and Rule 3130 CEO certification
- Comply with Reg BI for all retail recommendations (Form CRS required)
- Run AML program under FinCEN with annual independent testing
How FIN Group helps California Broker-Dealers
Fractional CCO
A named, senior CCO who owns your Form BD filings, annual review, and exam response.
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RegReview tracks every state, federal, and firm-level deadline with automatic reminders.
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InvestPrep handles KYC, AML, and subscription documents end-to-end.
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Also exploring a different registration type? California RIA · California Private Fund
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