If you’re planning a summer trip, you’ll want to be sure and read up on what’s required by the place you’re visiting concerning medical marijuana registration. Laws governing traveling with medical marijuana vary from state to state and some states don’t allow any kind of marijuana. If you’re a current medical marijuana patient, some states offer reciprocity which means you can get a visiting patient card or use your current recommendation or card from your home state to visit dispensaries in other states. Let’s review which states allow it and what the laws are.
These states have legalized recreational, adult use marijuana. You can shop in their dispensaries and shops with a driver’s license and cash or a debit card in most cases:
While the states listed above have legalized recreational, adult use marijuana, the following states have only legalized medical marijuana. If you’re traveling to any of these states, please read below to find out the legal requirements to have access to your medicine while in their state. We will cover laws in the states surrounding Louisiana. If you’re visiting other states by car or if you’re traveling by airplane or other public transportation, please be sure to research the regulations for those. Links to medical marijuana office in each state are also found below.
The following states have only legalized low dose THC medical marijuana.
Only three states currently do not allow any type of marijuana within their state borders. Kansas, Nebraska, and Idaho don’t allow recreational or medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana dispensaries in Alabama are expected to be operational soon, with plans for up to 37 locations across 21 cities. More information from the Alabama Cannabis Commission will be made available as they make progress.
The State of Arkansas provides a straightforward process tailored to help you enjoy your stay without compromising your health.
• Must be registered in another state
One last requirement, your condition must match one of the approved conditions for Arkansas. Those are Cancer, Glaucoma, Positive status for human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome, Hepatitis C, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Tourette’s syndrome, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Severe arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s disease, Cachexia or wasting syndrome, Peripheral neuropathy, Intractable pain, Severe nausea, Seizures, Severe and persistent muscle spasms.
To get started, click the button below or click here to set up your login for your new account. You’ll get an email to confirm. Then, just click the “Applications” button at the top of the page and choose “Visiting Patient.”
Louisiana passed a law in August of 2022 that allows out-of-state medical marijuana patients to purchase their products in Louisiana while they are visiting. If you are a current patient with an out-of-state medical marijuana card visiting Louisiana, you can search for the Louisiana dispensary closest to you and call them for specific details about how to use your current state’s medical marijuana card in Louisiana.
Click this link for more information about visiting Louisiana.
Mississippi allows out-of-state patients to shop in their dispensaries but the cost is the same as it would be for a state resident. The visiting patient must medically qualify and apply for a patient license just as residents do.
Mississippi has a long list of qualifying conditions listed here. Applications can be made up to thirty days before arriving in Mississippi, and cards are valid for fifteen days. Contact The Healing Clinics to find out how to get your card and when you plan to travel.
The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority uses a fairly straightforward process for registration. Oklahoma offers temporary patient licenses for both minor and adult visiting patients. Temporary licenses are valid for 30 days and may be renewed, but the expiration date of the temporary license cannot be later than the expiration date of the patient’s medical cannabis ID card. The temporary license is called “Adult Patient – Temporary License (Out of State)” on their website.
You’ll Need:
• Proof of Identity
• Passport-Style Digital Photo (for your medical marijuana card)
• Unexpired, valid out-of-state medical marijuana license (front and back)
Click here to get started on your temporary license for Oklahoma.
Texas has a compassionate use program (CUP) for medical marijuana. The list of qualifying conditions is fairly short and they do not provide reciprocity for out-of-state visitors.
Their list of qualifying conditions includes Epilepsy, Seizure disorders, Multiple sclerosis, Spasticity, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Autism, Terminal cancer, and an incurable neurodegenerative disease. The medical marijuana program in Texas is only for permanent residents, however, most of the larger cities have Consumable Hemp shops that could provide temporary products that might be enough to get you through your trip. Products purchased there will contain only .03% THC or less by law.
Traveling with medical marijuana in the United States requires careful consideration of both federal and state laws, as marijuana remains illegal at the federal level. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this complex situation:
Federal Law: Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal to possess, use, or transport under federal law.
State Laws: Some states have legalized medical marijuana, but laws and regulations vary widely.
Departure State: Ensure that the state where you are departing from permits medical marijuana use and allows for its transportation.
Destination State: Verify the laws of the state you are traveling to regarding medical marijuana. Some states do not recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards.
Medical Marijuana Card: Always carry your valid medical marijuana card or recommendation.
Doctor’s Recommendation: Have a copy of your doctor’s recommendation or prescription.
Identification: Carry a valid government-issued ID.
Interstate Travel: Avoid crossing state lines with medical marijuana, as this is considered federal jurisdiction and is illegal.
In-State Travel: When traveling within a state that allows medical marijuana, keep your medication in its original packaging with labels, and store it in a secure place, preferably in the trunk.
TSA Guidelines: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) operates under federal law and can refer cases to local law enforcement. However, TSA is focused on security threats, not marijuana enforcement.
State Regulations: Airports in states where medical marijuana is legal may have their own rules and guidelines. Check the airport’s website or contact them directly.
Carry Documentation: Have your medical marijuana card and prescription easily accessible.
Packaging: Keep your medication in its original packaging with clear labeling.
Consult a Lawyer: Consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in medical marijuana laws for specific advice.
Dispensaries: If possible, arrange to purchase medical marijuana at a dispensary in your destination state rather than traveling with it.
Plan Ahead: Research and plan your route and accommodations, ensuring that all stops are in states that recognize your medical marijuana status.
Privacy and Discretion: Keep your medical marijuana discreet and do not use it in public places where it might attract attention or violate local laws.
Traveling with medical marijuana in the U.S. involves navigating a patchwork of federal and state laws. Always carry your medical documentation, understand the specific laws of the states you are traveling to and through, and consider alternative arrangements to avoid legal complications. If in doubt, seek legal advice to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
If you’d like more information on traveling with medical marijuana, please click the button below.
