California
U.S. State · North America
California permits recreational cannabis for adults 21+ and has a long-established medical cannabis program. Federal law still applies at airports and on federal land, and cannabis cannot be carried across state lines. Prescription medicines for personal use are permitted.
Traveler warnings
Do not fly with cannabis even within California. Cannabis is illegal to take across any state line.
Legal status by substance category
8 categories documented for California.
ADHD Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse)
Stimulants (ADHD Medications)
Limit: Personal supply
ADHD stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) are DEA Schedule II controlled substances under federal law in every state. Legal to possess and transport for personal use with a valid prescription. Keep them in the original labeled pharmacy container; pharmacies may not fill out-of-state Schedule II prescriptions.
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin)
Benzodiazepines / Anxiolytics
Limit: Personal supply
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin) are DEA Schedule IV. Legal with a valid prescription; carry them in the original labeled container.
CBD Products (hemp-derived)
CBD Products
Hemp-derived CBD with no more than 0.3% THC is federally legal (2018 Farm Bill) and permitted. Marijuana-derived CBD follows this state's cannabis rules. Carry a certificate of analysis when possible.
Medical Cannabis / THC
Cannabis / Marijuana
Limit: State limits apply (domestic only)
Adult-use (recreational) cannabis is legal for 21+ under state law within possession limits, and medical use is also legal. Cannabis remains ILLEGAL under federal law — you cannot fly with it, cross state lines with it, or carry it through airport security (airports are federal jurisdiction).
Opioids / Pain Medications (oxycodone, tramadol, codeine)
Opioids / Pain Medications
Limit: Personal supply
Opioid pain medicines (oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, tramadol) are federally scheduled (II–IV). Legal with a prescription. All states operate a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP), and filling an out-of-state opioid prescription may be restricted — bring enough for your trip in the original container.
Psychiatric Medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics)
Psychiatric Medications
Limit: Personal supply
Most psychiatric medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers) are NOT federally scheduled and are legal to possess and transport with a valid prescription. Keep them in the original labeled container.
THC Vapes / Concentrates
THC Vapes / Concentrates
Limit: 8 g concentrate (21+)
Legal for adults 21+ via licensed dispensaries in California. Cannot pass through airport security.
Penalty: Federal jurisdiction applies at airports and across state lines.
Testosterone / TRT (Schedule III)
Testosterone / Hormone Therapy
Limit: Personal supply
Testosterone is a DEA Schedule III anabolic-androgenic steroid under federal law in all states. Legal to possess and transport for personal use with a valid prescription.
Prescription policy
Carry prescription medication in original labeled containers with your prescription. Personal-use quantities only.
Controlled substances
Adults 21+ may possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis and 8 grams of concentrate. Other controlled substances require a valid prescription under federal and state law.
Customs & border guidance
Cannabis cannot pass through TSA checkpoints or cross state lines; airports are federal jurisdiction.
Penalties
Exceeding possession limits or unlicensed sale carries penalties. Carrying cannabis through an airport remains a federal issue.
Documentation required
Prescription or doctor's letter for controlled medicines; original packaging.
For informational purposes only. This profile is not legal or medical advice. Laws change frequently; always verify with the official government, embassy, customs, or health authority before you travel.