When is the next Mega Millions drawing in California
The next Mega Millions drawing in California occurs on Tuesday, 2025-11-18 at 11:00 p.m. local time. Draws happen twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays at the same time across the United States. In California, tickets must be purchased by 6:30 p.m. local time on draw nights. You can check results immediately after the draw via the official Mega Millions website, the Mega Millions app, or at California retail locations. Below is a quick reference table for draw dates, times, and purchase deadlines for the current month.
| Draw date | Draw time (local) | Ticket purchase deadline | Results available |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-11-18 | 10:00 p.m. UTC / 3:00 p.m. PST | 6:30 p.m. PST | Shortly after 11:00 p.m. PST |
| 2025-11-21 | 10:00 p.m. UTC / 3:00 p.m. PST | 6:30 p.m. PST | Shortly after 11:00 p21;p.m. PST |
Standard and jackpot prize ranges
Mega Millions prizes vary based on ticket sales and rollovers. The minimum jackpot starts at $20 million, while top prizes have reached over $1 billion in past draws. Non-jackpot prizes for matching some numbers typically range from a few dollars up to $1 million for matching five main numbers without the Mega Ball. Exact prize amounts for a given draw depend on total ticket sales and the number of winners in each tier.
How to play Mega Millions in California
To play, choose five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. You can select numbers manually or use a Quick Pick. Tickets cost $2 per play. In California, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase tickets. Draws use two ball machines: one for white balls and one for the Mega Ball. Winning all five numbers plus the Mega Ball wins the jackpot. Multiple prize tiers exist for matching fewer numbers, with prizes awarded for matching the Mega Ball alone, the white balls alone, or combinations thereof.
Ticket options and rules
- Standard play: pick 5 numbers from 1 to 70 and 1 Mega Ball from 1 to 25.
- Megaplier option: for an additional $1, multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2x, 3x, 4x, or 5x when the drawn Megaplier number is selected.
- Advance play: allowed in California; you can purchase tickets for up to 15 future draws on the same ticket.
- Subscription play: available through official retailer partners for scheduled draws, subject to availability.
Where to buy tickets in California
Mega Millions tickets are sold at authorized retail locations across California, including many grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience shops. You can locate nearby retailers using the official Mega Millions retailer locator on the Mega Millions website. Online ticket sales through official state lottery platforms may offer additional convenience, but ticket purchase rules and claim procedures vary by jurisdiction. Note that subscription and syndicate play options follow specific terms set by retailer and platform operators.
Checking results and claiming prizes
Results are typically available within minutes after the draw via the Mega Millions website, official app, at retail locations, and through many local news outlets. In California, prizes under $600 can usually be claimed at any Mega Millions retailer. Larger prizes must be claimed in person at a California Lottery regional office or by following specific instructions provided after the draw. Claim deadlines vary by jurisdiction, but in California, unclaimed prizes become state funds after the applicable claim period. For the most current claim instructions, visit the official California Lottery website or contact a retail location near you.
Important notes and responsible play
Mega Millions is a game of chance. The odds of winning the jackpot are low, and the majority of tickets do not win the top prize. Ticket sales in California support state-funded programs, including education initiatives. Only purchase tickets from authorized retailers and avoid unofficial offers or resale schemes. If you choose to play, set a budget, treat it as entertainment, and know that past performance does not predict future results. For problem gambling support, contact a national helpline or a local counseling service.
Frequently asked questions
- When are tickets sold in California? Tickets must be purchased by 6:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday and Friday draw nights.
- Can I buy tickets online for Mega Millions in California? Online sales may be available through official state lottery platforms; check specific terms, as rules and retail locations can affect eligibility and claim processes.
- What happens to unclaimed prizes in California? Unclaimed prizes are transferred to state funds after the applicable claim period has passed.
- Is there a residency requirement to play in California? You must be physically present in California to purchase tickets, and you must meet age and legal requirements under state law.
- How is the jackpot determined? The jackpot starts at a set minimum and grows with ticket sales and rollovers until it is won.