For the general classification, calculated by adding the finishing times of the stages per cyclist, the leader received a yellow jersey (Amgen Race Leader Jersey).

Additionally, there was also a sprints classification, akin to what is called the points classification in other races, which awards a green jersey (Visit California Sprint Jersey).

In the sprints classification, cyclists received points for finishing in the top 15 in a stage.

In addition, some points could be won in intermediate sprints as well as bonus seconds in the overall classification.

It was generally awarded to a rider who attacks constantly or spent a lot of time in the breakaways.