Ohio’s medical marijuana program allows residents with qualifying conditions to obtain a medical marijuana card. This grants them access to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries within the state. However, Ohio does not yet allow recreational marijuana. So what happens if you travel outside of Ohio with your medical card? Here is an overview of which states accept Ohio medical cards.
Reciprocity Agreements
Some states have formal agreements recognizing medical cards from other states. This is known as reciprocity or mutual recognition. Unfortunately, Ohio does not currently have any official reciprocal arrangements with other states. So your Ohio medical card alone is not enough to purchase medical marijuana in other legal states. However, there are some exceptions as outlined below.
Accepts Ohio’s Card with Application
Pennsylvania
– Must apply for and obtain a Pennsylvania medical card
– Card lasts for 1 year
Oklahoma
– Must apply for temporary 30-day medical license
– Can be renewed multiple times
Does Not Accept Ohio’s Card
Michigan
– Does not accept other states’ medical cards
– Must be a Michigan resident
Illinois
– Does not offer reciprocity with Ohio
– Must apply to Illinois’s program
New York
– No reciprocity with Ohio
– Must establish residency in New York
California
– Does not accept non-resident medical cards
– Must get a California medical recommendation
Nevada
– Does not accept Ohio’s card
– Must obtain a Nevada medical card
Additional Considerations
If traveling to a recreational state like Colorado or Massachusetts, you do not need a medical card. However, you do need to be 21+ to purchase and consume recreational marijuana products. It is also illegal to transport marijuana across state lines under federal law.
While more and more states establish medical and recreational programs, reciprocity has been slow to follow. Be sure to check the local laws and eligibility criteria before attempting to use an Ohio MMJ card out-of-state. Having a valid medical reason to use cannabis is also recommended over relying solely on the card itself. An experienced medical marijuana doctor can provide further guidance around access in other states.