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California · Foreign LLC · updated

How to register an out-of-state LLC in California

An LLC formed in another state registers to do business in California with a foreign registration filing (California's fee is $70). It needs a California registered agent and usually a good standing certificate from its home state. As of October 2026.

California state fee$70per the state's fee schedule
Our filing service$120we prepare and file it
State fee + ours$190card processing is added at checkout
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The 5 steps to register a foreign LLC in California

Background on when a state counts you as "doing business": foreign qualification explained.

  1. 1

    Confirm you are doing business in California

    Where people get stuck

    An office, employees, or regular in-person work in California usually counts; a few sales shipped in usually does not. California's own statute decides. If you have not formed the LLC yet, forming it in California directly is often simpler (start an LLC in California).

  2. 2

    Get a good standing certificate from your home state

    Order it first

    Most states ask for a recent certificate of good standing (or existence) from the state where the LLC was formed. How to order one in each state.

  3. 3

    Name a California registered agent

    Required

    The LLC needs an agent with a California street address. Ours is $74.25 a year, the same at renewal. California agent rules.

  4. 4

    File the foreign registration with the state

    We file this one

    You file it with California's business filing office; California's fee is $70 (California fee schedule). The current form is on California's official site. We file it for $120 plus the state fee.

  5. 5

    Keep up with California's yearly filing

    From next year

    A registered foreign LLC files California's yearly report like a local one. The California annual LLC tax (Franchise Tax Board) is due April 15 every year, with a state fee of $800. Deadline and free reminders.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to register a foreign LLC in California?

California's fee is $70 per the state's fee schedule. If we file it, our fee is $120 on top. Add the home-state good standing certificate and a California registered agent.

What happens if I do business in California without registering?

States commonly bar an unregistered LLC from suing in their courts until it registers, and can charge back fees and penalties. Check the state's own rules.

Do I still file reports in my home state?

Yes. The LLC keeps its home-state filings and adds this state's.

Is it cheaper to just form the LLC in California?

If California is the only state where you operate, usually yes: one state's fees and one registered agent. Our best-state comparison covers all 51.

Is this page legal advice?

No. It explains the filing in general terms. For your situation, talk to a licensed attorney, or book a free call with us.

More California business guides

Start an LLC LLC cost Registered agent Annual report Good standing Name search Sales tax permit Dissolve an LLC Change agent Amend an LLC Change the name Withdraw a foreign LLC

Nearby states

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Have us register your LLC in California

$120 plus California's $70 state fee. Checkout shows the full total before you pay.

Register my LLC in California

Rather talk first? Call Ray or Vinny at (954) 470-8356.