Are Medical Marijuana Cards Transferable Between States?
Emmanuel Foret
Writer, Editor, Social Media Manager
February, 25 2025
Photo credit: iStock
Key Takeaways:
-
Medical Marijuana Cards Are Not Universally Transferable – While some states offer reciprocity or temporary permits, you generally cannot use an out-of-state medical marijuana card everywhere. Each state has its own rules, and some do not recognize out-of-state cards at all.
-
Traveling with Medical Marijuana Can Be Risky – Crossing state lines with cannabis is illegal under federal law, even if both states have medical marijuana programs. Patients should research state laws, avoid transporting cannabis, and consider alternative options like applying for temporary permits where available.
As medical marijuana laws evolve across the United States, many patients wonder whether their medical marijuana cards are valid outside their home states. Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. While some states recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards under “reciprocity” agreements, others do not. Additionally, federal law still prohibits the transport of cannabis across state lines, adding another layer of complexity.
This guide explores whether medical marijuana cards are transferable between states, which states recognize out-of-state cards, and what options are available for patients traveling or relocating.
Can You Use a Medical Marijuana Card in Another State?
Medical marijuana laws vary significantly from state to state, meaning that a medical marijuana card issued in one state is not automatically valid elsewhere. However, some states have reciprocity agreements, allowing out-of-state medical marijuana patients to legally purchase and use cannabis within their jurisdiction.
What Is Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?
Reciprocity refers to the legal recognition of an out-of-state medical marijuana card in another state. This allows visiting patients to access medical cannabis under certain conditions, such as meeting the host state’s qualifying conditions and completing temporary registration. However, reciprocity does not guarantee the ability to purchase marijuana—some states allow possession and use but not dispensary purchases.
States That Accept Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards
The following states have some form of medical marijuana reciprocity:
- Arkansas – Recognizes out-of-state medical marijuana cards if patients apply for a temporary card.
- Arizona – Allows visiting patients to possess and use cannabis but not purchase it from dispensaries.
- District of Columbia (D.C.) – Accepts medical marijuana cards from a list of approved states.
- Hawaii – Offers temporary registration for out-of-state patients.
- Louisiana – Non-residents can purchase medical marijuana at licensed pharmacies.
- Maine – Recognizes out-of-state cards, allowing patients to purchase and possess medical cannabis.
- Nevada – Accepts all valid out-of-state medical marijuana cards for both possession and purchase.
- New Hampshire – Allows out-of-state cardholders to possess marijuana but not purchase it.
- New Jersey – Recognizes out-of-state medical marijuana cards for up to six months, but patients must first see a local doctor for certification.
- New Mexico – Accepts valid out-of-state medical cards for purchases and possession.
- Oklahoma – Offers a temporary medical marijuana card for out-of-state patients.
- Rhode Island – Allows visitors to purchase cannabis from dispensaries with a valid medical card.
- Utah – Grants legal protections to out-of-state cardholders whose qualifying conditions match Utah’s list.
- Washington, D.C. – Recognizes medical marijuana cards from specific states with similar programs.
States That Do Not Accept Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards
Several states do not recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards, meaning patients cannot legally purchase or use medical cannabis while visiting. These states include:
- Florida
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- Ohio
- Washington
Possessing medical marijuana in these states without a local medical card may result in legal consequences, including fines or criminal charges.
Get Your Florida Medical Marijuana Card Today! – Book Now!
Take the first step toward natural relief. Schedule your medical exam at The Card Clinic and see if you qualify for a Florida Medical Marijuana Card. Our compassionate doctors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Temporary Medical Marijuana Permits for Visitors
Rather than granting full reciprocity, some states allow out-of-state patients to apply for a temporary medical marijuana card, which grants legal access for a limited time. These states include:
- Arkansas – Issues a 90-day temporary card for $50.
- California – Allows non-residents to apply for a local medical marijuana card.
- Hawaii – Offers a 60-day temporary medical cannabis card for $49.50.
- Maryland – Grants temporary permits to patients undergoing medical treatment in the state.
- Mississippi – Issues 15-day temporary medical cannabis cards for $75.
- Oklahoma – Provides a 30-day or 60-day temporary medical cannabis card.
“A medical marijuana card isn’t a passport—each state has its own rules, and crossing state lines with cannabis remains a federal offense.”
Moving to Another State? You’ll Need a New Medical Marijuana Card
If you are permanently relocating to a new state, you cannot transfer your medical marijuana card from one state to another. Instead, you must apply for a new medical marijuana card in your new state of residence. This process typically requires:
- Proof of residency (state ID or utility bill).
- A new medical evaluation from an in-state licensed physician.
- Submission of a new medical marijuana application.
- Payment of state application fees.
Some states, such as Nevada and Michigan, allow dispensaries to decide whether to accept out-of-state medical cards, but obtaining an in-state card is still recommended for legal protections and tax benefits.
Can You Travel Across State Lines with Medical Marijuana?
No. Transporting cannabis across state lines remains illegal under federal law, even if both states allow medical marijuana. Crossing state borders with cannabis may be considered drug trafficking, which can carry severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
The only exceptions involve CBD products derived from hemp, which are federally legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. However, some states have banned certain hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as Delta-8 THC, so it’s essential to research local laws before traveling.
Best Practices for Medical Marijuana Patients Traveling Out of State
If you are a medical marijuana patient planning to travel, consider the following tips:
- Check state laws – Research whether your destination state has reciprocity agreements or temporary permits.
- Contact dispensaries – Even in states with reciprocity, dispensaries may have their own policies regarding out-of-state patients.
- Avoid crossing state lines with cannabis – To stay within the law, purchase medical marijuana only in the state you are visiting.
- Consider alternative options – If cannabis is illegal where you’re going, you may need to use legal hemp-derived products like CBD instead.
Conclusion: Are Medical Marijuana Cards Transferable Between States?
Medical marijuana cards are not directly transferable between states, but some states offer reciprocity agreements or temporary permits for visiting patients. If you are relocating permanently, you will need to apply for a new medical marijuana card in your new state. Always check local laws before traveling and avoid transporting cannabis across state lines to stay compliant with federal regulations.
By staying informed about state-specific medical marijuana laws, patients can ensure they have continued legal access to the medicine they need, whether traveling temporarily or moving to a new home.
Marijuana Guides
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida: Everything You Need to Know
Marijuana Guides
How Long Does Weed Last in Ziploc? A Comprehensive Guide to Weed Storage
Marijuana Guides