It might be difficult to travel across states while carrying medical marijuana. Even though several states have made medicinal marijuana lawful, it is still against the law on a federal level. Problems may arise due to inadequate government oversight while passing airports with enhanced security measures.
Here, you'll find a detailed guide on transporting medicinal cannabis, broken down by mode of transportation and its specific regulations. Protect your ability to consume cannabis medication lawfully while traveling to see loved ones for the holidays and beyond by reading on.
Carrying Medical Marijuana Abroad in the USA
You need to know a few things before driving or flying to Texas with medicinal marijuana.
If you need to travel with medicinal marijuana, you probably won't have any trouble with the law. It would be best if you didn't have any difficulty as long as you have your state-issued medical marijuana card or a signed letter of permission from your doctor.
However, there are specific guidelines you should follow to make sure your trip goes off without a hitch while using medical marijuana.
Driving With Medical Marijuana
Remember that each state has its own marijuana rules if you're driving across state lines.
In Colorado, individuals can legally carry two ounces of marijuana for recreational purposes. However, possession of any amount of marijuana is still illegal in neighboring Nebraska despite the state having decriminalized it. This means that police officers will not aggressively seek to arrest you if they stop your automobile for any reason.
If you run into trouble with the law, labeling and storing the least dose required for your therapy in its original container will help you avoid trouble. Make sure you have your medical marijuana documentation, such as your MMJ card or a letter of clearance from your doctor, if you plan on passing through a state that has not yet authorized medicinal marijuana. Be aware, however, federal law prohibits crossing state lines with marijuana.
Several nations use the principle of mutual recognition. Some states will recognize medical
marijuana cards from other states, allowing their holders to buy and possess marijuana legally.
If you want to bring or buy marijuana when visiting Texas, you need first find out if doing so is legal there.
Medical Marijuana and Air Travel
It's one thing to drive around with medicinal marijuana, but what about flying with it?
Even though the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says they don't systematically look for marijuana, they'll notify local authorities if they find any in a passenger's carry-on or checked luggage.
It's unclear from even this official declaration whether or not passengers can legally take medical marijuana on board. Assume that local law police in both your home state and your destination state will question you about your possession of medicinal marijuana. Leave the marijuana at home if the state from which you are departing or the state to which you are traveling does not permit its possession.
Although many professionals advise against it, it is possible to transport medicinal marijuana on an airplane if it remains in its original packaging and is correctly labeled. If the TSA inspects your suitcase, this will assist in clearing up any ambiguity.
There is still a lot of room for interpretation when it comes to transporting medicinal marijuana, and ultimately, it may come down to the discretion of a single officer.
Bringing Medical Marijuana Overseas
When traveling inside a country, most people will not have trouble carrying their medicinal marijuana. But going abroad is a whole other ballgame.
Different rules in each nation govern the use of marijuana. Therefore, you might be permitted to carry marijuana if you visit a nation that permits its use.
However, you cannot carry marijuana if you visit a nation where its use is prohibited.
Not only that, but even if you're visiting a country that has legalized marijuana, the rules there may be different from those in the United States.
The personal use of cannabis, for instance, is legal in Mexico as of the year 2021. Nonetheless, bringing any amount of marijuana across the border in your carry-on luggage is still illegal (and not recommended). Because of the inconsistency of law enforcement at international checkpoints, it's advisable to leave any medicinal marijuana at home if you're flying or driving abroad.
What to Do If You Get Pulled Over With Medical Marijuana in Your Car
The best course of action if you are stopped while transporting medicinal marijuana is to stay calm and polite.
Do not quarrel with the police or give false information about what you are carrying.
You may prove your medical necessity by showing your medical marijuana card or permission letter.
If the police officer decides to seize your medicinal marijuana, you may not have many options. The interaction will go quickly, and you will not be detained or charged with possession if you are friendly and helpful.
Guidelines for Safe Medical Marijuana Travel
If you need to transport medicinal marijuana when traveling, here are some guidelines:
Bring only what you anticipate using. Don't bring it with you if you can help it! Do not carry more of your medication than you need if you must bring it with you.
Don't let it hang out in the open. When you're on the road, it's wise to hide it. It should be stashed away and kept in a secure container.
Always keep an eye on your environment. Always be alert to what's happening around you, knowing the local rules, and refraining from openly using medicinal marijuana while away is essential.
Prepare for the worst. When taking medicinal marijuana on the road, it's best to be prepared for the unexpected. If law enforcement seizes your medicinal marijuana, you should be prepared to use other treatments.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Prescription in Texas
Texas has a medical marijuana program in place, but it's restrictive and doesn't fully meet the needs of Texas patients. However, a comprehensive medical marijuana program is coming to Texas soon!
Make sure you benefit from this program when it's in effect by securing your marijuana card now. You can book an appointment with one of our qualified physicians who will put you through the thorough process of acquiring your marijuana prescription today.
Book an evaluation online today with one of our qualified, compassionate doctors. You'll meet with your doctor virtually using your smartphone or computer for a telemedicine appointment. Together, you'll discuss your qualifying condition and how you might benefit from medical marijuana without leaving your home! You'll even save $25 off the cost of your evaluation!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Texas Marijuana Card, we aim to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.