Overview
The CAL-ACCESS Replacement System (CARS) will be available for use in November, 2026. After CARS becomes available, the current CAL-ACCESS system will no longer be available for use. This page provides updates, key milestones, and actions stakeholders should take to prepare to use this new system.
For general project news, stakeholder bulletins, and historical updates, please visit the CAL-ACCESS Replacement System Project page.
Go-Live Status
Current Status: In Development
Target Go-Live Date: Post-election, November 2026
The CARS Project team continues to make progress toward deploying the new CAL-ACCESS system. Go-live readiness activities are underway, including system testing, training preparation, and stakeholder engagement.
This section will be updated as go-live dates and readiness milestones are confirmed.
How to Prepare for Go-Live
Stakeholders can prepare for the new system by taking the following steps:
- Ensure your contact information on file with the Political Reform Division is current.
A valid email address will be required to register for and access CARS. Providing a valid, current email address now will help us keep you better informed of the project’s progress through our use of online communication. When you register to use CARS, a combination of an email address and your current CAL-ACCESS password will be used to link to your existing accounts. - Monitor this page and the CARS Stakeholder Bulletins for updates. Future editions of the newsletter will provide details describing the differences between the existing CAL-ACCESS and the new CARS.
- Attend the monthly External Stakeholder Meetings for updates and to see functionality previews. The meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Send an email to prdcars@sos.ca.gov and request a meeting invitation.
- Review training materials as they become available and identified on this webpage.
- Plan time to familiarize yourself with the new system by attending the monthly stakeholder meetings and reviewing the training material.
Preparation guidance will be expanded as the go-live date approaches. Training materials are expected to become available during late summer.
Go-Live Frequently Asked Questions
Will it cost anything to use the new system?
No. Creating an account on CAL-ACCESS and submitting filings through the new system is completely free. There are no subscription fees and no per filing charges. This has always been true of CAL-ACCESS, and that will not change with the new system.
If you work with a third-party software vendor, any fees associated with those services are set independently by those vendors and are not imposed by or affiliated with the Secretary of State’s office. We encourage you to contact your provider directly with any questions about their pricing.
Stay Informed
Subscribe to CARS Stakeholder Bulletins
Contact Information
Political Reform Division Phone Number:
(916) 653-6814
CARS Project Email:
PRDCARS@sos.ca.gov
Press Inquiries:
Phone: (916) 653-6575
Email: press@sos.ca.gov
