The Age of Majority in California

California’s Family Code, in Division 11, Part 1, deals with minors and the age of majority. Section 6500 states that a minor is an individual who is under 18 years of age. The period of minority is calculated from the first minute of the day on which the individual is born to the same minute of the corresponding day completing the period of minority.

Section 6501 specifies that an adult is an individual who is 18 years of age or older.

Section 6502 provides that the use of the words “age of majority,” “age of minority,” “adult,” “minor,” or words of similar intent in any instrument, order, transfer, or governmental communication made in this state makes reference to individuals 18 years of age and older, or younger than 18 years of age.