What process must I follow if I am required to register as a sex offender under California Penal Code 290?

To comply with California's sex offender registration law, you must complete an initial registration with local law enforcement and then diligently update your information annually and any time key details change. The process requires strict adherence to deadlines to avoid severe penalties. Here is the process you must follow: Step 1: Complete Your Initial Registration You must register within five (5) working days of your release from jail or prison, or within five working days of being placed on probation if you were not incarcerated. Go to the police department of the city where you live, or the sheriff's office if you live in an unincorporated area. You will need to provide your full name, any aliases, your address, and information about your employment or school. Be prepared to be photographed and fingerprinted. Step 2: Update Your Registration Annually Every year, you must return to the same law enforcement agency to update your information. This must be done within five (5) working days of your birthday. You will verify that all previously provided information is still accurate. Step 3: Report Any Change of Address If you move, you must notify law enforcement. You are required to register with the police or sheriff's department in your new jurisdiction within five (5) working days of moving. This is a critical step that many people fail to follow correctly. Step 4: Report Other Changes Promptly You must also report any change to your name, employment, or school enrollment/campus information. Report these changes to the law enforcement agency where you are currently registered within five (5) working days of the change. Important considerations: Always bring a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or state ID card) and proof of your address (such as a utility bill or lease agreement) when you register or update your information. If you do not have a permanent residence, you are considered a transient and must update your registration every 30 days. Note: Failure to register or update your information as required is a separate felony offense under Penal Code 290.018. The consequences of non-compliance are severe and can include new prison sentences and fines. The duty to register is lifelong for many offenses, although recent laws have created a tiering system that may allow for eventual removal from the registry for some individuals. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, such as determining your specific tier or petitioning for removal from the registry, you should consult with a qualified California attorney.