California Pick 4 FAQs

Learn all you need to know about Pick 4 in California - most commonly known as Daily 4 in the Golden State. There is a lot of information you might want to know about this popular lottery game - and we’ve hopefully covered it all for you here.

Use the drop-down boxes to help navigate all the most commonly asked Pick 4 questions.

What is CA Pick 4?
Pick 4 is a lottery game played in multiple different states, with slight variations and occasional name changes. For example, in California it is mostly known as Daily 4. However, the fundamental rules mostly remain the same from state to state. Pick four numbers between 0-9 and choose a play type to get involved.
When do California Pick 4 ticket sales close and drawings take place?
CA Pick 4 has a draw every single day. Draws take place immediately after ticket sales close at 6:30 PM.
How do you win Pick 4?
You win Pick 4 by matching your four numbers with the numbers drawn - however - there are different ways you can do this, depending on what play type you choose. Go to our Ways to Play page to get all the details.
How much is a Pick 4 ticket in California?
One play in CA Pick 4 will cost you $1. You can play multiple draws in one purchase using ‘Advance Play’ which will increase the price of your ticket - depending on how many draws you enter.
How many draws can I enter?
You can play in either 1-7 or 14 consecutive draws by marking the ‘Advance Play’ option.
How much can I win?
You can win multiple different prizes in California depending on whether you get a Straight prize, Box Prize or both! Check out our Odds and Prizes page where all of this is explained.
How likely is it to win Pick 4?
The chance of winning the top prize in California Pick 4 is 1 in 10,000. You have higher odds of winning smaller prizes - our Odds and Prizes page details this for you.
How old do you have to be to play Pick 4 in California?
You have to have to be at least 18 years old to play any lottery game in California - including Pick 4 (Daily 4).
Are my prizes taxed?
Luckily California does not tax lottery winnings at the state level - but you will still owe federal tax.
How do draws happen?
Draws happen through an Automated Draw Machine, which is a state-of-the-art computer system that means any tampering is impossible. It isn’t connected to any other system and the hard drive cannot be opened as a security seal protects it.
How to Claim Prizes?

For prizes under $600 - you can visit a local Californian lottery retailer who will pay you the cash right there in the store.

For prizes over $600 - you will have to mail in your winning ticket California State Lottery, 730 North 10th Street, Sacramento, CA 95811. Or visit any Lottery District Office in California. The addresses are detailed at the bottom of our Ways to Play page.

What is the cut off time to claim a prize?
You have 180 days from the draw date to redeem your prize.