California allows both medical and adult-use (recreational) cannabis sales, and Highway DTLA serves both — here’s what’s actually different between the two at the counter.
Age requirements
Adult-use (recreational) customers must be 21 or older with a valid government-issued ID. Medical patients with a valid physician’s recommendation can shop starting at 18.
Taxes
Valid medical patients with a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) are exempt from state sales tax in California, though local cannabis business taxes may still apply. Recreational purchases are subject to the full applicable tax rate.
Purchase limits
California sets daily purchase limits — generally higher for medical patients than for recreational customers, particularly for concentrates.
Getting a recommendation
A medical recommendation comes from a licensed California physician, typically through a telehealth or in-person evaluation, and is separate from what any dispensary can provide.
