Running for Public Office
We offer assistance to candidates running for office in the County of San Luis Obispo. Our November 5, 2024, General Election page includes resources like a Calendar of Important Dates for Candidates and Candidate Filing Guidelines. Additional information about running for office can be found on the California Secretary of State's website.
What is the process?
Complete Candidate Information Form
Download and complete the Candidate Information Form.
Schedule an appointment
You may email your completed Candidate Information Form to [email protected] or call us at (805) 781-5228 to schedule your appointment to run for office.
Bring completed paperwork to your appointment
After scheduling your appointment, we will email you additional forms and information. Note: You may need multiple appointments if the office you are running for requires a minimum number of nomination signatures. You must have all required forms completed by your final appointment.
Who is eligible?
Generally, a candidate must be a registered voter and otherwise qualified to vote for the office they are seeking, to use this service.
Is there a charge for this service?
Depending on the office, there may be candidate filing fees required. Fees for any given office/election (if any) are listed in the candidate information booklet specific to that election.
When and where is this service offered?
This service is available anytime throughout the year at the Clerk-Recorder office in San Luis Obispo during regular business hours except during County-observed holidays. However, the nomination and candidate filing periods are scheduled by statute at the beginning of an election cycle, generally from 103 to 88 days before the election.
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
1055 Monterey Street Suite D120
San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Tel: (805) 781-5080
Fax: (805) 781-1111
