Where to Buy CBD in California: Your 2025 Guide

Quick Answer: CBD is legal to buy online in California as long as it’s derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. You can shop tinctures, gummies, vapes, and topicals from Mellow Fellow, which ships directly to California residents. Must be 18+. Always choose lab-tested, COA-verified products for compliance.

This guide was researched and verified by Mellow Fellow’s compliance and cannabinoid content team, using up-to-date state regulations, federal hemp guidelines, and product sourcing standards. All information was accurate at time of publication and is reviewed periodically to reflect evolving laws and enforcement practices.

California has long been at the forefront of cannabis reform, and CBD products are no exception. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or anywhere in between, finding quality CBD has never been easier — if you know where to look and what regulations apply. From tinctures that help with post-workout recovery to gummies that ease evening stress, CBD has become a staple in California’s wellness scene.

The Golden State’s progressive stance on hemp-derived products means you have access to some of the best CBD options in the country. But with so many choices available, from Venice Beach smoke shops to Silicon Valley wellness stores, knowing where to find lab-tested, legitimate products can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about purchasing CBD in California, including age requirements, product types, and the best places to shop both online and in-person.

Key Takeaways

CBD derived from hemp (containing less than 0.3% THC) is fully legal throughout California for adults 21 and older
California requires all CBD products to undergo third-party lab testing for purity and potency
You can purchase CBD online and have it shipped anywhere in California, often with better selection than retail stores
Major cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco have hundreds of licensed CBD retailers
California allows CBD in food and beverages, unlike many other states

How to Buy CBD in California

Purchasing CBD in California starts with understanding your options and knowing what to look for. The state’s robust regulatory framework means you’ll find products that meet high standards, but it also means being aware of specific requirements that protect consumers.

When shopping for CBD in California, your first step should be verifying that any retailer — whether online or brick-and-mortar — provides current certificates of analysis (COAs) from third-party labs. These documents confirm the product’s cannabinoid content and screen for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microbials. California law mandates this testing, making it one of the safest states for CBD purchases.

For first-time buyers, starting with a reputable online retailer like Mellow Fellow often provides the best experience. Online shopping lets you compare products, read detailed descriptions, and access lab reports without pressure. Many California residents prefer ordering CBD online because it offers access to specialized formulations — like mood-specific blends that combine CBD with other cannabinoids for targeted effects. When you’re ready to try something new, check out CBD products designed for focus or relaxation.

Dosage considerations vary by product type and individual needs. Most CBD newcomers find success starting with 10-25mg daily, adjusting based on their response. Tinctures offer the most control over dosing, while pre-measured options like gummies or capsules provide consistency. California’s educated cannabis market means many retailers employ knowledgeable staff who can guide you through dosing strategies, though online resources often provide more detailed information about CBD dosage recommendations.

Is CBD Legal in California?

CBD’s legal status in California is straightforward: hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are completely legal for adult use. This clarity comes from both federal and state legislation that distinguishes hemp from marijuana based on THC content.

The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp and its derivatives, including CBD, as long as the THC concentration stays below the 0.3% threshold. California embraced this federal framework while adding its own consumer protections through Senate Bill 235, passed in 2021. This legislation explicitly allows CBD in food, beverages, and dietary supplements — a stance more permissive than many states that still restrict CBD edibles.

The distinction between hemp-derived and marijuana-derived CBD matters in California, though less than in other states. While both are legal for adults 21 and over, marijuana-derived CBD products (which may contain higher THC levels) are only available through licensed cannabis dispensaries. Hemp-derived CBD, conversely, can be sold in health stores, pharmacies, and online without the same restrictions. This dual market gives California consumers unparalleled choice in CBD products.

For those interested in the science behind different cannabinoids, understanding how CBD compares to CBG can help you make more informed purchasing decisions. California’s progressive regulations mean you have access to both isolated CBD products and full-spectrum options that include other beneficial cannabinoids.

Retail Stores and Dispensaries in California

California’s CBD retail landscape spans from boutique wellness shops in Marin County to sprawling dispensaries in Los Angeles. The state’s mature cannabis market means you’ll find CBD products in unexpected places — from yoga studios to pet stores — alongside traditional retail locations.

Where to Buy CBD in Major Cities

Los Angeles leads the pack with hundreds of CBD retailers spread across neighborhoods from Santa Monica to Pasadena. The city’s wellness-focused culture means you’ll find CBD in juice bars, fitness centers, and dedicated hemp stores. San Francisco’s retail scene concentrates in neighborhoods like the Mission and Hayes Valley, where boutique shops often carry artisanal, locally-made CBD products. San Diego’s beach communities, particularly Pacific Beach and La Jolla, host numerous surf shops and wellness centers that stock CBD for active lifestyles.

In the Bay Area, cities like Oakland and Berkeley cater to the academic crowd with CBD shops near UC Berkeley and other colleges, recognizing the growing interest among students managing academic stress. Sacramento, as the state capital, maintains a robust selection of CBD retailers, many focusing on products for state workers seeking natural stress relief. Fresno and other Central Valley cities have seen rapid growth in CBD availability, with agricultural communities particularly interested in locally-sourced hemp products.

Online CBD Stores

Online shopping has transformed how Californians purchase CBD, offering advantages that physical stores can’t match. Beyond convenience, online retailers typically provide more detailed product information, extensive lab testing documentation, and customer reviews that help inform purchasing decisions. The ability to compare products side-by-side, research specific cannabinoid profiles, and access educational content makes online shopping particularly valuable for those new to CBD or seeking specific effects.

Sites specializing in CBD often curate their selections based on desired outcomes rather than just product types. This approach aligns with how consumers actually use CBD — not just as a generic supplement but as a targeted solution for specific needs. Whether you’re looking for daytime focus blends or evening relaxation formulas, online retailers provide the selection and information needed to make informed choices.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy CBD in California?

California sets the age requirement for CBD purchases at 21 years old, aligning with cannabis regulations rather than the 18-year minimum seen in many other states. This higher age threshold applies to all CBD products, regardless of their THC content or intended use.

The state’s decision to set 21 as the minimum age reflects California’s comprehensive approach to cannabis regulation. While some argue that non-intoxicating CBD should have lower age restrictions, California legislators opted for consistency across all cannabis-derived products. This means whether you’re buying CBD tinctures, topicals, or edibles, retailers must verify you’re 21 or older.

Some exceptions exist for medical patients. California’s medical cannabis program allows qualified patients 18 and older to purchase CBD products with a valid medical recommendation. However, most CBD retailers operate under adult-use regulations, making 21 the practical minimum age for the vast majority of purchases.

What CBD Products Can You Buy in California?

California’s CBD market offers perhaps the widest product variety in the nation, thanks to regulations that allow CBD in foods and beverages. This permissive stance has sparked innovation, resulting in product categories you won’t find in more restrictive states.

Traditional CBD oils and tinctures remain popular among California consumers who value precise dosing and rapid effects. These products typically come in various strengths and flavors, with many California brands emphasizing organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Tinctures work well for those who want to customize their CBD experience, adjusting doses based on daily needs. Many Californians incorporate CBD tinctures into their morning routines, adding drops to coffee or smoothies for sustained effects throughout the day.

Gummies and edibles represent California’s most innovative CBD category. Unlike states that prohibit CBD in food, California allows everything from CBD-infused chocolates to beverages. This has led to artisanal CBD treats that rival the state’s renowned culinary scene. Premium CBD gummies often feature exotic flavors and precise dosing, making them ideal for newcomers who want a familiar, enjoyable way to try CBD. The state’s health-conscious culture has also driven demand for vegan, organic, and sugar-free CBD edible options.

CBD vape products occupy a significant market share in California, particularly among younger consumers and those seeking immediate effects. From disposable vape pens to refillable cartridges, these products offer convenience and discretion. California’s strict testing requirements for vape products provide additional safety assurance, though consumers should still verify lab results. For those interested in how CBD vapes compare to gummies, both delivery methods have distinct advantages depending on your lifestyle and preferences.

Topical CBD products have found a particular niche among California’s active population. From CBD-infused sunscreens for beach-goers to recovery balms for hikers and cyclists, these products target localized relief without systemic effects. Many California spas and wellness centers now offer CBD massage services, recognizing the compound’s potential for muscle relaxation and skin health.

Can You Buy CBD Online in California?

Online CBD purchasing in California offers distinct advantages over traditional retail, starting with selection that no physical store can match. California residents can legally order CBD products from any retailer that ships to the state, opening access to specialized formulations and brands that might not have local distribution.

The convenience factor extends beyond simple home delivery. Online CBD shopping allows for thorough research, price comparison, and access to detailed lab reports that might be cumbersome to review in-store. Many California consumers appreciate being able to read customer reviews, compare cannabinoid profiles, and make decisions without sales pressure. This is particularly valuable when exploring new product categories or seeking specific effects from your CBD regimen.

Quality verification becomes easier online, where reputable retailers prominently display third-party lab results and provide detailed product information. California’s tech-savvy population has embraced online CBD shopping as a way to make more informed purchases. When shopping online, look for retailers that provide batch-specific lab reports, clear ingredient lists, and transparent sourcing information. Mellow Fellow’s CBD collection exemplifies this transparency, with each product page featuring comprehensive testing data and effect descriptions.

Can You Travel with CBD in California?

Traveling with CBD within California presents few restrictions, making it one of the most CBD-friendly states for domestic travel. Whether you’re driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles or flying between California cities, carrying CBD products is generally permitted as long as they meet legal THC limits.

For intrastate travel by car, you can transport CBD products just as you would any other supplement or personal care item. There’s no limit on the amount of CBD you can carry within California, though keeping products in their original packaging helps avoid any confusion during potential traffic stops. California law enforcement generally recognizes legal CBD products, but having lab reports accessible (either printed or on your phone) provides extra assurance.

Air travel with CBD requires more consideration, particularly regarding TSA regulations. While TSA follows federal guidelines that permit hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC, their primary focus remains security rather than enforcing CBD regulations. California’s major airports — LAX, SFO, Oakland, and San Diego — have publicly stated they don’t prohibit cannabis products that comply with state law. However, TSA screening remains under federal jurisdiction, so keeping CBD products easily accessible and clearly labeled helps smooth the security process.

International travel from California with CBD requires careful research, as many countries maintain strict prohibitions on all cannabis-derived products. Even traveling to CBD-friendly Canada requires declaration at customs. Most experienced travelers recommend leaving CBD products at home for international trips and purchasing locally at your destination if permitted.

CBD Products You Can Buy at Mellow Fellow

Mellow Fellow brings a unique approach to CBD, focusing on mood-specific formulations that go beyond basic supplementation. Our California customers particularly appreciate products that fit into their active, wellness-focused lifestyles while delivering consistent, predictable effects.

Our Elevate Blend CBD Tincture combines 2000mg of CBD with complementary cannabinoids designed to support daytime productivity without jitters or crashes. California professionals often incorporate this into their morning routines, finding it helps maintain focus during long workdays or creative sessions. The berry flavor makes it easy to add to smoothies or take sublingually for faster effects.

For those seeking better sleep in California’s fast-paced environment, the Rest Blend CBD Tincture offers a thoughtful combination of CBD with sleep-supporting cannabinoids. This formula recognizes that quality rest requires more than just sedation — it’s about achieving the right state of relaxation that allows natural sleep cycles to occur.

Our Wellness Gummies collection provides pre-measured doses in formulations targeting specific needs. The Momentum Blend supports sustained energy without stimulants, while the Illuminate Blend helps maintain mental clarity during demanding tasks. These products reflect California’s preference for functional wellness products that enhance rather than alter daily experiences.

For convenient, on-the-go relief, our CBD softgel capsules offer precise dosing in travel-friendly packaging. California’s mobile lifestyle demands products that work anywhere, and these capsules deliver consistent effects whether you’re commuting in LA traffic or hiking in Yosemite.

The Future of CBD Legislation in California

California continues to lead in progressive CBD regulation, with recent legislative discussions focusing on expanding access while maintaining consumer safety. Assembly Bill 2031, currently under consideration, would create clearer guidelines for CBD in alcoholic beverages, potentially opening new product categories for California consumers.

The state’s approach to CBD regulation increasingly emphasizes testing standards and label accuracy rather than restricting access. Recent enforcement actions have targeted companies making unsubstantiated health claims rather than the products themselves, signaling California’s commitment to a mature, regulated CBD market. This regulatory philosophy encourages innovation while protecting consumers from misleading marketing.

Looking ahead, California appears poised to further integrate CBD into mainstream commerce. Discussions about allowing CBD sales in chain pharmacies and grocery stores could dramatically expand access, particularly in rural areas where specialized CBD retailers are scarce. The state’s influence on national cannabis policy means California’s CBD regulations often preview future trends in other states.

FAQs About CBD in California

Can I give CBD to my pets in California? Yes, California allows CBD products specifically formulated for pets. Many veterinarians now recommend CBD for animal anxiety, joint health, and other conditions. Always choose pet-specific products with appropriate dosing for your animal’s size and species.

Do I need a medical card to buy CBD in California? No medical recommendation is required for hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC. These products are available to all adults 21 and over without any special documentation.

Can employers in California test for CBD use? While CBD itself isn’t typically tested for in employment drug screens, some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC that could trigger a positive result. California’s employment laws regarding cannabis use are complex, so consider using THC-free CBD isolate products if drug testing is a concern.

Are there any restrictions on CBD advertising in California? California prohibits CBD marketing that makes specific health claims without FDA approval. Advertisements cannot target minors and must include age restrictions. Online and print advertising faces fewer restrictions than billboard or broadcast media.

Can I grow my own hemp for CBD in California? California allows licensed cultivation of industrial hemp, but personal growing requires registration with the county agricultural commissioner. Most consumers find purchasing finished CBD products more practical than attempting home cultivation and extraction.

What’s the difference between CBD sold in dispensaries versus health stores? Dispensary CBD products may contain higher THC levels and often come from marijuana plants rather than hemp. Health store CBD must derive from hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC. Both undergo similar testing requirements in California.

Enjoy CBD the Cali Way

California stands as one of the most accessible and well-regulated CBD markets in the United States. From the tech hubs of Silicon Valley to the wellness centers of Southern California, CBD has become integrated into the state’s health-conscious lifestyle. The combination of progressive regulations, quality testing requirements, and diverse retail options makes California an ideal place to explore CBD’s potential benefits.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the Golden State, understanding where and how to purchase CBD helps you make informed decisions about your wellness routine. California’s commitment to consumer protection through mandatory lab testing means you can shop with confidence, knowing products meet high standards for purity and potency.

Ready to experience California’s premium CBD selection? Browse Mellow Fellow’s complete CBD collection to find lab-tested, mood-specific formulations designed for your lifestyle. From morning focus to evening relaxation, we offer CBD solutions that align with California’s innovative approach to wellness.