The federal forms are the same and the filing with the BLM is simple. Counties on the other hand are county by county and there is little continuity between them. Prior to filing I suggest that you contact the county where the claim will be located and get a true assessment of all of the county cost.
In all cases be aware of any restrictions that have been placed federally, state and county. Research on the front end is the best tool you have.

Thank you sir!

Welcome Joseph,

Educate yourself on locating and validating a mining claim, many snakes in the grass in the mining claim world
Once you have done it a time or two, its easy LOL Books and info on the BLM website if you want to wade through it
If your buying a claim, dont lay down a dime until you sample the claim, verify the claims validating with the county, checking that all fees have been paid and current (the county is law on mining claims in California)
Check the BLM, however BLM will take your monies with a smile, one misstep with the county and the BLM receipt is worthless
As Kevin said, research and due diligence up front will save heart ache out the back

Bill

Hi Joe, I am a claim owner in Southern California. I am co-owner of the Placer Pete Claim. I would be happy to help you get through the process of owing a claim in So Cal. Contact me directly at stevesgolfer@outlook.com and we will get to talkin!