Quick answer: No. California does not require multiple estimates, and your insurer cannot make you drive around collecting quotes. One estimate from the licensed shop of your choice is enough — the insurer inspects or writes its own estimate and negotiates directly with the shop.
How it actually works today
You choose your shop (that right is protected by California Insurance Code section 758.5), and you give the insurer the claim and the shop's information. The insurer then either inspects the vehicle, writes its own estimate from photos, or works from the shop's estimate. From that point, pricing is negotiated between the shop and the adjuster — including supplements for hidden damage found during teardown. Your job is done after you pick the shop.
Comparison shopping is fine — compare the right things
Two honest shops can produce different numbers because they assume different parts (OEM vs. aftermarket), different repair methods (repair vs. replace a panel), or different levels of teardown. A lowball estimate that skips necessary operations isn't cheaper; it just moves the surprise to later, or leaves work undone. When comparing shops, weigh the estimate's detail, the shop's certifications and equipment, warranty terms, communication habits, and reviews at least as heavily as the bottom line.
Paying out of pocket? Get it in writing
California's Bureau of Automotive Repair requires shops to give you a written estimate and get your authorization before repairs begin, and the final bill can't exceed the authorized amount without your approval. Any licensed shop should do this without being asked.
At Spark Collision Center in Fremont, estimates are free, and photo estimates get you a fast ballpark before you commit to anything. We put every assumption on paper — parts type, paint hours, procedures — so if you do compare us against another shop, you're comparing like with like.