What the California Blue Book is and who uses it

The California Blue Book is the state's official directory of elected officials, government agencies, and public services. It lists contact information, office locations, and brief descriptions of what each agency does. You use it to find the right person or department to call when you need something from state government — whether that's a complaint about a utility, a question about a license, or contact details for your state representative.

The book is published by the California Secretary of State's office and is available free online. Most people find it faster to search the web version than to use a printed copy, though some libraries and government offices keep physical copies on hand.

The Blue Book does not process requests or handle applications itself. It is purely a reference tool — it tells you who to contact and how, but the actual agency you call or visit is the one that handles your matter.

Key Takeaways

  • The California Blue Book is a free directory published by the Secretary of State that lists state agencies, elected officials, and their contact information.
  • You can search the online version at sos.ca.gov by agency name, official name, or topic to find phone numbers and office addresses.
  • The book covers state-level government only — for city or county services, you will need to contact your local government directly.
  • Each agency listing includes a brief description of its function, which helps you confirm you have found the right department before you call.

How to search the online California Blue Book

Go to the California Secretary of State website at sos.ca.gov and look for the Blue Book link, usually under "California Government" or "Reference." The online version has a search box where you can type an agency name, an official's name, or a topic.

If you are looking for a specific agency — for example, the Department of Motor Vehicles or the State Board of Equalization — type the full or partial name into the search box. Results will show the agency's main office address, phone number, and a short description of what it does. Many agencies also list regional or branch offices if you need a location closer to you.

If you are not sure which agency handles what you need, search by topic instead. For example, searching "housing" or "consumer complaints" will return a list of relevant departments. Read the description for each one to find the right fit before you call.

Finding elected officials through the Blue Book

The Blue Book includes listings for state senators, state assembly members, the Governor, and other statewide elected officials. Search by your name, district number, or the official's title to find their office address, phone number, and sometimes their website.

To find your state senator or assembly member, you will need to know your district number. The easiest way is to enter your address into the "Find Your Representatives" tool on the Secretary of State website, which will tell you your districts and show you who represents you. Once you have the name, you can search the Blue Book for their contact details.

The Blue Book does not list city council members, county supervisors, or federal representatives — those are found through your city or county government websites, or through Congress.gov for federal officials.

What information each agency listing contains

A typical Blue Book entry includes the agency name, the main office address, a general phone number, and a brief statement of what the agency does. Some entries also list a website, email address, or the names of key officials. Larger agencies may have multiple office locations listed, with separate phone numbers for different divisions.

The description is usually one or two sentences and tells you the agency's primary function — for example, "Issues driver licenses and vehicle registrations" or "Handles complaints about unfair labor practices." This description helps you confirm you have found the right place before you spend time calling.

Not every agency lists every possible contact method. If you find a phone number but no email, or vice versa, try the phone number first — the person who answers can usually direct you to the right department or provide an email address if that is what you need.

When to use the Blue Book versus other resources

Use the Blue Book when you know you need a state agency but are not sure which one, or when you have the agency name but need a phone number or address. It is the fastest way to find official contact information for state government.

Do not use the Blue Book for city or county services — search your city or county government website instead. Do not use it for federal agencies like the Social Security Administration or the IRS — use USA.gov or the agency's own website. Do not use it to look up private businesses or non-government organizations, even if they provide public services.

If you are looking for a specific program — for example, unemployment insurance or CalFresh food information — the Blue Book will point you to the right state department, but you will then need to visit that department's website or call them for details about how to reach the program itself.

Printed copies and other ways to access the Blue Book

The online version at sos.ca.gov is the most current and easiest to search. However, printed copies are sometimes available at public libraries, county clerk offices, and some government buildings. If you do not have internet access, calling your local library can tell you whether they have a copy you can look at in person.

Some libraries also offer computer access during business hours, which you can use to search the online Blue Book. If you need help finding a specific agency, many library staff can help you search or can point you to the right resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Blue Book to find my city council member or county supervisor?

No. The Blue Book covers state government only. To find your city council member or county supervisor, go to your city or county government website and look for a "Contact Us" or "Elected Officials" page. You can also search online for "[your city] city council" or "[your county] board of supervisors."

What if I search for an agency and do not find it in the Blue Book?

The agency may be listed under a different name than you expected. Try searching by topic or by the service you need instead of the agency name. If that does not work, try a web search for the agency name plus "California" — the agency's own website will usually have contact information. You can also call the Governor's office main line at (916) 445-2841 and ask for a referral.

Does the Blue Book tell me if I am may be able to access for a program or benefit?

No. The Blue Book only provides contact information and a brief description of what each agency does. Once you contact the agency, they can tell you about programs and what you need to do to reach them, but the Blue Book itself does not determine may be able to access or provide program details.

Is the Blue Book updated regularly?

The online version is updated regularly as agencies change addresses or phone numbers. The printed version is updated less frequently, so if you are using a printed copy, the online version is more likely to have current contact information.

Can I find federal agency contact information in the California Blue Book?

No. The Blue Book covers California state government only. For federal agencies, use USA.gov or search for the agency name directly online. Your state representative's office can also help you find federal agency contacts if you are having trouble.