California Masonic membership is open to men age 18 or older who meet the qualifications and standards of character and reputation, and who believe in a Supreme Being.

To become a member, a man must first request a petition and  be recommended by two members of a local Masonic lodge and file a petition through that lodge.  After submitting the petition, the applicant then meets with a committee to discuss Freemasonry and learn more about the organization.  If the interview is favorable, the petition is presented to the lodge for a vote.  If the vote is affirmative, the  individual receives the Entered Apprentice degree-the first degree of Freemasonry.  Once a man has completed the next two degrees, he is a Master Mason and a full member of the fraternity.

The fees for degrees range from $150 to $200.  Annual dues are set by the individual lodge and are usually between $50 and $100.