Payday loans in California: what the law allows
Yes. California allows payday loans up to $300, with a fee limit of 15% of the face amount of the check. We haven't confirmed California's car title loan rules yet.
California
Payday loans
Allowed
Car title loans
Not confirmed yet
- Largest loan
- $300
- Fee limit
- 15% of the face amount of the check
- Longest term
- 31 days
“The face amount of the check shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300).”
California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI)
Checked 2026-09-15. Laws change; confirm with the regulator before you borrow.
Before you borrow
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Common questions
Are payday loans legal in California?
Yes. California allows payday loans up to $300, with a fee limit of 15% of the face amount of the check.
Are car title loans legal in California?
We haven't confirmed California's car title loan rules yet.
How do I check a lender's license in California?
Look the lender up with California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), which licenses lenders in California.
Do these rules protect service members?
Yes. The Military Lending Act limits payday and car title loans for covered service members to 36%, in every state.
Information, not legal advice. Laws change; confirm with the state regulator.