Applying for a cannabis license

Department of Cannabis Control

Last updated 05/07/2025

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Description

Applying for a cannabis license in California is a step-by-step process. . To get started, applicants must first secure local permits, , gather necessary documents, and apply for a DCC license in the appropriate licensing system. After submitting a complete application and paying the required fees, applicants should stay responsive to any DCC communication to ensure smooth processing. Once approved, licensees must post their license prominently at their business location.

Phone: 844-612-2322

Frequently Asked Questions

What are California cannabis laws?

California became the first state to allow medicinal cannabis use when voters passed the Compassionate Use Act in 1996. Today, cannabis is legal in California for both medicinal and adult (recreational) use.

The cannabis industry is strictly regulated to make sure:

  • Businesses operate safely
  • Products are contaminant-free and labeled to inform purchasers
  • Cannabis is kept away from children

Statutes, regulations and ordinances are all types of laws that work together to set rules for businesses and consumers.It is the responsibility of the licensee to follow all local and state regulations.

Learn more about California cannabis laws.
What are the types of licenses?

The DCC issues licenses based on the type of cannabis activity that your business will perform. If you will do more than one activity, you may need more than one license.
You must have a valid DCC license before performing any commercial cannabis activity, including:

  • Growing cannabis (cultivation)
  • Transporting cannabis (distribution)
  • Making cannabis products (manufacturing)
  • Testing cannabis or cannabis products (testing laboratory)
  • Selling cannabis (retail)
  • Holding an event where cannabis will be sold (event organizers)

Learn more about license types.
How do I apply for a license?

Visit How to apply for a license.
Who should I reach out to for state-authorized Medical Marijuana Identification Card?

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) manages the state-authorized Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program (MMICP). The MMICP web-based registry allows law enforcement and the public to verify the validity of a qualified patient or primary caregiver’s MMICP as authorization to possess, grow, transport, and/or use medical marijuana within California.

Visit program homepage.

Topics

Health and wellness,

Keywords

CLEaR, CLS, cultivating, cultivation, How to apply for a cannabis license,