Commercial Banks

In addition to State-Chartered Banks, California plays host to banks headquartered in other states and nations. Find information about these banks below.

• Foreign (Other State) Banks
• Foreign (Other Nation) Banks

Advantages of a State Charter

As a California state-chartered financial institution, you can expect:

An “open door” policy with regard to all financial institutions. We encourage financial institutions to stay in close contact with us; no problem or question is deemed unimportant.

An understanding of California’s unique competitive environment. The Department’s familiarity with what our institutions face allows for informed decision making and understanding of “local” issues. With offices located in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego, we’re never far away.

A commitment to firm, fair, and consistent regulation and supervision. Our commitment to quality translates into better service to the financial institutions that we regulate.

Lower fees and assessments. Generally, the fees charged by the Department are lower (e.g. application fees, assessments) than those charged by federal regulators. Learn how our assessments are calculated.

Learn more about the advantages of a California charter.