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Pet Licensing FAQs
Where can I obtain more information about licensing my pet(s)?
I am unsure whether I live within the city or county's jurisdiction, how can I find out?
What paperwork will I need to license my pet?
How often do I need to license my pet?
Where can I obtain more information about licensing my pet(s)?
Licensing fees and requirements vary between jurisdictions. In general, pet licenses are sold at your local animal control facility, police department, city hall, and in some cases may be available online. Please contact your local agencies to learn about the licensing process in your area.
For residents of the City of Los Angeles, please visit their licensing page for more information.
For those living within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles or one of County's contract cities, please visit their licensing page for more information.
For those living within the area serviced by Southeast Area Animal Control Authority, please visit their licensing page for more information.
I am unsure whether I live within the city or county's jurisdiction, how can I find out?
We're here to help! Please visit our Adoption Resources Page and click on the region where you reside to locate the facility that provides service to your area.
What paperwork will I need to license my pet?
Documentation required for licensing may vary based on jurisdiction, but in most cases you will need the following:
1. A complete license application
2. A current rabies certificate
3. Proof of sterilization (to qualify for a lower-priced, altered license*)
*With few exceptions, all dogs residing within the City of Los Angeles must be spayed or neutered.
How often do I need to license my pet?
In most cases, a pet's license will expire after one year or when his or her rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first. To simplify the process, some jurisdictions have begun selling multi-year licenses. Contact your local animal control agency, police department, or city hall to learn about the licenses sold in your jurisdiction. If multi-year licenses are available, you will need to provide proof of a valid rabies vaccination for the length of the licensing period.