You should have no problems (keyworld *should*) listening to CalTrans on the BCD436HP. CalTrans appears to use unencrypted P25 Phase I and the BCD436HP will have no problems decoding that. Additionally, CalTrans' operations frequencies appear to be comfortably within the frequency range of the BCD.
With regard to the "other places," you should be fine listening to most other unencrypted agencies and broadcasts without issue, provided you're within range and/or have a suitable antenna.
If anyone has anything to add, please feel free to correct me.
Good luck!