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Does Florida Accept Out-Of-State Medical Cards?

March 5, 2024 12:59 pm ET Estimated Read Time: 3 Minutes

Fact checked by Kymberly Drapcho

Does Florida Accept Out-Of-State Medical Cards?

Navigating the medical cannabis system can be confusing. As of now, 38 states have legalized some form of medical marijuana, but every state has different rules, regulations, and policies regarding the use and distribution of medical cards.

People in states without adult use (recreational) or medicinal cannabis frequently drive over state lines to neighboring areas with access to marijuana. However, this doesn’t work for everybody–certain states do not allow out-of-state medical cards or sales to tourists. Knowing before you go is key so you don’t waste time, money, and effort trying to acquire cannabis.

Does Florida Allow Reciprocity?

If a state allows reciprocity, that means they allow out-of-state medical cards to be used in their program. There are currently 18 states that allow reciprocity, including:

Unfortunately, Florida does not currently allow reciprocity and out-of-state medical marijuana cards to be used in its dispensaries.

To learn more, check out our comprehensive guide to medical marijuana reciprocity.

Understanding Florida’s MMJ System

Florida medical cannabis cards are state-issued, and all patients must go through the same application process. To receive a medical card in Florida, you must first consult with an approved doctor to verify that you have one of the qualifying medical conditions. Some of the most common qualifying medical conditions in Florida include:

Cancer
Epilepsy
Glaucoma
HIV/AIDS
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
ALS
Crohn’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Arthritis
Anxiety
Lupus

After a doctor confirms your condition, you register with the state’s MMJ program and pay all of the required fees. You’ll need documentation proving that you’re a resident of Florida, your ID, your doctor’s recommendation, and the completed application form.

You’ll then receive your card, which is valid for one year. Cards must be renewed annually.

Traveling with Cannabis in Florida

People with Florida medical cards are permitted to travel with cannabis within the state. If they are flying from one state airport to another, they must bring their medical card and doctor’s certification with them to avoid any trouble with TSA. This is also recommended while driving with cannabis.

Since cannabis is still a Schedule I drug and a federally illegal substance, transporting it across state lines is strictly prohibited. That does, sadly, mean that you can’t and shouldn’t bring any marijuana products with you if you’re traveling to Florida. The risks are simply not worth the fines and potential legal troubles you may face if you get caught.

Get Your Florida Medical Card

Tourists are not allowed to apply for medical marijuana cards in Florida, so you must reside in the state for at least a month before applying. If you aren’t sure how to begin the process, one of our qualified medical cannabis doctors can help.

To find out more, book an appointment today to discover whether or not you’re eligible for a med card in Florida. If approved, you’ll be on your way to purchasing cannabis in no time!

Author, Share & Comments

Emily is a Denver-based transplant from Virginia who is passionate about substance use harm reduction, yoga, and music. She writes and edits to support the extravagant lifestyles of her pug and cat. When she's not writing, she can be found doing flow and aerial arts or browsing flights to faraway places.

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