Welcome to the California Department of Financial Institutions

About DFI

The Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) oversees the secure operation of approximately 700 state-licensed financial institutions, including about 200 state banks and 200 state credit unions (see DFI Financial Institutions Overview). DFI ensures public confidence in financial institutions by protecting the interests of depositors, borrowers, shareholders and consumers through enforcement of applicable state and federal laws.

DFI is responsible for administering state laws regulating: banks, credit unions, industrial banks, trust companies, offices of foreign banks, issuers of travelers checks and payment instruments (money orders), and money transmitters

The Department’s programs are supported by assessment of licensees, license and application fees and charges for various other services.

  • Careers at DFI Employment opportunities with DFI: exam bulletins, job openings, and information on the State of California employment process.
  • Contact Us How to contact DFI by mail, phone and fax. Key contacts (Consumer Services, Legal Department, Press/Media, etc.).
  • Executive Profiles Bios and contact information for DFI's Executive Management.
  • History History of regulatory responsibilities beginning in 1857.
  • Mission Mission, vision and values of the Department.
  • Small Business Opportunities Information for small businesses including a list of commodities purchased by the Department. Contact information for the DFI Small Business Liaison/Advocate.
  • DFI is Nationally Accredited from Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) The Department of Financial Institutions is professionally accredited by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) certifying that DFI maintains the highest standards and practices in state banking supervision.