California Code, Streets and Highways Code - SHC § 104.8

The department may retain in its records all deeds, conveyances, and other evidences of title to or interests in real property acquired by the department under the provisions of this code.  The Secretary of State and any other State officer or department having custody of any such documents is authorized and directed to deliver custody of such instruments to the department.  The department may furnish on demand to any person paying the cost of preparing the same a certified copy of any such document.