Which States have Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?

Marijuana Reciprocity

Are you visiting another legal state and wondering if your medical marijuana card will be accepted? Well, it depends on several factors. Although an increasing number of states are beginning to accept out-of-state medical cards, the rules still vary from state to state on just what your card is good for.

To make sure you’re not surprised on your next out-of-state trip, here is a look at all of the rules for medical marijuana reciprocity across the states, along with the details and limitations you should be aware of before your next visit.

The State of MMJ Reciprocity

legal states

Although not all of these states recognize medical marijuana reciprocity, they have at least legalized recreational cannabis for those 21 and over. In some states where recreational cannabis is still illegal but MMJ reciprocity is recognized, there might be some limitations, but you will be able to purchase or possess cannabis in:

Alaska: Although Alaska doesn’t recognize out-of-state MMJ cards, recreational cannabis is also legal. You can purchase and possess up to one ounce.

Arizona: Arizona has limited reciprocity. You need to be visiting for less than 30 days and be licensed in your home state with a qualifying condition that Arizona also recognizes. Recreational cannabis is also legal as of January 2021.

Arkansas: With a valid out-of-state medical card and the completion of a $50 patient intake form, you can purchase medical marijuana in Arkansas for 30 days.

California: Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, recreational and medical marijuana is now available to anyone over 21 in California with valid government-issued identification.

Colorado: Only residents can purchase medical marijuana, but recreational cannabis is fully legal for anyone 21 and older in Colorado.

Illinois: Illinois also does not recognize medical marijuana reciprocity, but has now legalized recreational cannabis.

Hawaii: Out-of-state patients can apply for Hawaii’s medical marijuana program. Patients with serious or terminal conditions can have their application fast-tracked.

Maine: Medical marijuana cards from other states are recognized in states with qualifying conditions similar to Maine’s program.

Maryland: Out-of-state MMJ cards are not recognized, but you can register to receive medical marijuana if you are visiting the state for medical treatment.

Massachusetts: Out-of-state MMJ cards are not recognized, but recreational cannabis is legal.

Michigan: It is left to the discretion of individual dispensaries to recognize out-of-state MMJ cards. Recreational cannabis is also legalized.

Montana: Out-of-state cards are recognized. You’ll need to present a valid MMJ card and state-issued identification when purchasing from dispensaries.

Nevada: All out-of-state MMJ cards are accepted.

New Hampshire: If your qualifying condition is also recognized by New Hampshire, your MMJ card will be accepted.

New Jersey: Out-of-state MMJ cards are recognized for up to six months while visiting the state. New Jersey is also in the process of legalizing the sale of recreational cannabis.

New Mexico: The state now recognizes MMJ reciprocity following a recent court ruling. Recreational cannabis is also coming to New Mexico in 2022.

Oklahoma: MMJ cards from other states are recognized, but visitors will have to complete a Temporary Patient Application Information form to purchase from an Oklahoma dispensary.

Oregon: Out-of-state MMJ cards are not recognized, but recreational cannabis is fully legal.

Puerto Rico: Out-of-state cards are recognized, and visitors with valid cards can purchase cannabis from any dispensary. Recreational cannabis is still prohibited.

Vermont: Out-of-state MMJ cards are not recognized, but possession of up to one ounce is permitted for those 21 and older.

Utah: Out-of-state MMJ cards can possess, but not purchase medical marijuana if the visitor meets one of Utah’s qualifying conditions.

Washington, DC: Non-district residents with MMJ cards can purchase medical marijuana from regulated dispensaries during their visit.

States Without Medical Marijuana Reciprocity

There are some states where out-of-state MMJ cards are not accepted, and recreational cannabis is illegal. Plan accordingly if you are visiting:

  • Connecticut (recently legalized, recreational sales coming in 2023)
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Louisiana
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • New York (Recreational cannabis coming in 2022)
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island (Legalization of recreational cannabis is in the works)
  • South Dakota
  • Texas
  • Virginia 
  • Wisconsin
  • West Virginia

Both medical and recreational marijuana is still illegal in:

  • Alabama
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Mississippi (State Supreme Court recently overturned cannabis legalization)
  • Nebraska
  • North Carolina
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Wyoming

 

Interested in using cannabis as an alternative treatment? Get your cannabis card with a licensed physician.

Interested in using cannabis as an alternative treatment? Get
your cannabis card with a licensed physician.

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