What US States Accept Out of State Medical Marijuana Cards?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Navigating medical marijuana legislation in the United States can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding where your medical marijuana card is accepted. Whether you’re planning a trip, moving to a new state, or just curious about your rights, knowing which states honor out-of-state medical marijuana cards is crucial.
In this article, we’ll explore the various states that offer reciprocity for medical marijuana patients.
Can I Use My Medical Marijuana Card Anywhere in the U.S.?
Each state has its own cannabis laws, and not all recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards. If you want to use your MMJ card in another state, be sure to research its laws before traveling there.
What Is Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?
Medical marijuana reciprocity refers to one state recognizing and honoring MMJ cards issued by another state. In essence, it gives patients the right to purchase and possess medical marijuana outside of their home state.
Note that the specifics of reciprocity agreements can vary from state to state.
What States Accept Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards?
The states that currently allow the use of out-of-state MMJ cards (with some state-specific caveats) are as follows:
- Delaware
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- Puerto Rico
- Rhode Island
- Washington D.C.
What States Require Out-of-State Patients to Apply for a Temporary Card?
The states that currently require patients to apply for a temporary MMJ card to purchase and possess medical marijuana are as follows:
- Arkansas
- Hawaii
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
What States Do Not Offer MMJ Reciprocity?
The states that don’t offer medical marijuana reciprocity in any form are as follows:
- Alabama
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Nebraska
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Can I Travel with Medical Marijuana?
While many states have legalized medical marijuana, it remains illegal under federal law. This means it’s illegal to transport it across state lines, even if you have an MMJ card.
Conclusion
Navigating U.S. medical marijuana law can be challenging, but understanding where your out-of-state MMJ card is accepted can help you stay compliant. While some states offer reciprocity, others may require you to apply for a temporary card, or may not recognize out-of-state cards at all. Always research the specific laws of any state you plan to visit to ensure you know your rights.
If you have a qualifying condition medical marijuana could treat, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can help. Not only can we connect you with a licensed physician able to certify you for medical cannabis treatment, but we can guide you through the process of applying for an MMJ card in your home state. Book an appointment today to begin your medical marijuana journey.
How we reviewed this article:
- Heather Lovett (2022). MEDICAL CANNABIS RECIPROCITY: STATES THAT ACCEPT OUT-OF-STATE MEDICAL CARDS IN 2022
https://www.happyvalley.org/resources/cannabis-reciprocity/ - Americans for Safe Access (2023). Travel Guide for Patients
https://www.safeaccessnow.org/travel
Current Version
June 21, 2024
Written By
Kirstie Gundlach
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Kirstie is a Certified Cannabis Coach with over 10 years in the medical cannabis field. She has worked at The Sanctuary Wellness institute since 2021 and has helped countless patients with questions pertaining to medical cannabis.
