July 22, 2022
New Mandatory Registration Requirements for Firms Not Owned by Licensees of the Court Reporters Board
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements?
Starting July 1, 2022, all non–licensee–owned entities providing court reporting services in California must register with the Board and designate a California Licensed Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) to be their reporter–in–charge. All registered non–licensee–owned entities will be under the jurisdiction of the Board and on a list which will be made available on the Board's website. In 2021, Senate Bill (SB) 241 was passed, implementing the new requirements.
What are the requirements for court reporting firms not owned by licensees to apply for initial registration?
- Submit an online "Non–CSR Owned Initial Firm Registration" application in Connect.
- Pay the $500 registration fee.
The applicant must designate a Board–certified reporter–in–charge who:
- Is a full–time employee of the registered firm and a resident of California.
- Holds a currently valid, unrestricted California license as a certified shorthand reporter.
- Is not subject to a pending Board accusation or investigation at the time of the application.
How long does a registration last?
A registration is valid for one year and provides for the suspension and revocation of a registration by the Board under specified circumstances.
Do firms that are wholly owned by CSRs need to register?
No, California court reporting firms that are wholly owned by CSRs are not required to register. However, these firms may voluntarily register at no charge by submitting an online “CSR Owned Initial Firm Registration” application in Connect.
Can California licensed CSRs work for firms not wholly owned by licensees?
California licensed CSRs may only work for firms providing court reporting services that are wholly owned by California licensed CSRs or entities that are registered with the Board.
How are applications processed?
Applications are processed by date received and the Board's website is updated on a continuous basis.
How can I access the list of registered firms?
The list is available on the Board's homepage by either clicking on the blue License Search button or License Verification link under Quick Hits.
To search for a specific firm, enter the firm name prior to hitting the "Search" button.
Where can I find additional information?
Firm registration applications and additional information can be viewed on the Court Reporters Board's Firm Registration page.