Who can buy medicinal cannabis in California
State rules let licensed retailers sell medicinal cannabis to people who are 18 or older and have a valid physician’s recommendation. Adult-use cannabis is sold to people 21 and older, with no recommendation needed. Sources: Department of Cannabis Control; DCC regulations, section 15404.
At Elevated SF: you must be 21 or older to shop with us, with or without a recommendation.
The Medical Marijuana Identification Card
California’s Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) is voluntary. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), you get it from the program in your county, not from a doctor or an evaluation center, and a card is valid for up to one year.
To apply, CDPH lists these documents:
- a copy of your medical recommendation;
- proof of identity, such as a California DMV driver license or ID card, or another valid government-issued photo ID;
- proof that you live in the county where you apply, such as a rental or mortgage agreement, a utility bill or a California DMV vehicle registration.
Counties set their own fee, which cannot be more than $100; CDPH says Medi-Cal beneficiaries pay half. Source: CDPH MMICP frequently asked questions.
Sales tax
CDPH says patients who present a valid MMIC do not pay sales and use tax on retail purchases of medicinal cannabis products. If you have a card, bring it with your photo ID and show it at the counter. Source: CDPH MMICP FAQs.
Questions at the counter
Our staff can explain product types, how products are labeled and how THC is measured. We can’t give medical advice: please talk to your physician about your health.
Official sources
- Department of Cannabis Control: What’s legal
- Department of Cannabis Control: Medicinal and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulations (revised July 1, 2026)
- California Department of Public Health: Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program
- California Department of Public Health: Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program FAQs
General information, not legal or medical advice. Checked against the sources above on September 25, 2026.