I know Caller ID for the common man didn't go through here in Cal., despite the fact we have call return.
This is the distinction. The underlying hardware and switching protocols all have the capability for calling-number identification, but the PUC didn't allow the consumer service "Caller-ID" to exist. As a result, Pac Bell now offers services which use it in indirect ways. Not only do we have Call Return, but also Call Screen, Priority Ringing, Select Call Forwarding, and Call Trace. I just spoke to the business office and Caller-ID is not available even on their business lines, not even the Pac Bell 800 offerings. It looks like the only way to do this is to get 800 service from another carrier. Even then, I'm not sure that intra-California service will be available. Eric