California Voter File
How to request the official California statewide voter file, what it costs, who qualifies, and how Activate can help.
At a glance
- Estimated fee
- $100
- Who can request
- Candidates, parties, ballot measure committees, or for election/scholarly/journalistic/political/governmental purposes (SOS determination)
- Activate can request?
- A qualifying campaign must request it first
- Last verified
- June 22, 2026
California requires a qualifying requestor
Client in eligible category or approved purpose required
Legal basis: Cal. Elec. Code §§ 2184, 2194; NCSL/Ballotpedia
What is the California voter file?
The California voter file is the official statewide list of registered voters maintained by the state election office. It typically includes voter names, addresses, party registration (where applicable), precinct, district, and voting history. Campaigns use it to organize canvassing, phone banking, and mail programs.
How to request the California voter file
Once you have the file, you can import it into a political canvassing tool like Activate to organize volunteers and track outreach.
- 1Confirm you are a qualifying requestor in California (Candidates, parties, ballot measure committees, or for election/scholarly/journalistic/political/governmental purposes (SOS determination)).
- 2Visit the official California election office request page.
- 3Client in eligible category or approved purpose required
- 4Receive the file and upload it securely to Activate for your campaign.
Eligibility and restrictions
Eligible requestors: Candidates, parties, ballot measure committees, or for election/scholarly/journalistic/political/governmental purposes (SOS determination)
Notes: Qualified requestors only; requires application, purpose documentation, signed confidentiality/non-resale agreement, and security plan. Statewide file is $100.
Legal basis: Cal. Elec. Code §§ 2184, 2194; NCSL/Ballotpedia
Cost and turnaround
The estimated state fee is $100. Turnaround varies by state and request volume. Delivery may be instant download, email, or physical media depending on the state. Check the official California election office page for the most current timeline.
How Activate can help
A qualifying California campaign or candidate must request the file first. Once you have it, Activate imports and secures it so your team can start canvassing and calling voters.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the California voter file cost?
The California voter file costs $100 as of our last verification.
Who can request the California voter file?
Candidates, parties, ballot measure committees, or for election/scholarly/journalistic/political/governmental purposes (SOS determination)
Can I download the California voter file online?
Some requestors may be able to request or download the file through the official California election office portal.
How long does it take to get the California voter file?
Turnaround varies by state and request volume. Check the official California election office page for current processing times.
What is in the California voter file?
State voter files typically include voter name, address, party registration (where applicable), precinct, district, and voting history fields. Exact fields vary by state and are controlled by state law.
Ready to use the California voter file?
Activate is a free political canvassing app for local campaigns. Import your voter list, invite volunteers, and start reaching voters today.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Voter file access laws and fees change. Confirm the current procedure with the official state election office before submitting a request.