The localization of Ca+(+)-independent cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in the developing and mature olfactory epithelium and bulb is reviewed. The CAMs included in this article are the neural cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM), the 180 kD component of N-CAM (N-CAM 180), the embryonic form of N-CAM (E-N-CAM), L1 glycoproteins, J1 glycoproteins, and the adhesion molecule on glia (AMOG). In addition, the expression of the L2-HNK-1 carbohydrate epitope, shared by N-CAM, L1, J1 and myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) in the adult olfactory epithelium and bulb has also been documented. For the localization of these molecules at the light and electron microscopic levels, immunocytochemical techniques were used and are described in detail. During development and organogenesis, the olfactory system exhibits a pattern of CAM expression similar to the general pattern described for the developing nervous system. In the adult olfactory system, however, a significant retention of CAMs characteristic for developmental and morphogenetic processes, such as E-N-CAM, AMOG, as well as the high molecular weight components of J1 glycoproteins, can be observed. The retention of these embryonic features are most likely associated with the cell turnover and high plasticity of this system. Moreover, the predominance of N-CAM 180 with respect to other components of N-CAM, as well as the absence of the L2/HNK-1 carbohydrate epitope, are also particular traits of the primary olfactory system which could be associated with its exceptional properties.