Traveling With Marijuana — Know the Laws Before You Go

Arizona legalized recreational marijuana in 2020 under Proposition 207. Adults 21 and older can possess up to one ounce. But legality in Arizona doesn’t mean legality everywhere — and traveling with marijuana can lead to serious consequences.

Within Arizona

Within Arizona, adults 21+ can possess and transport up to one ounce (28.3 grams) of marijuana, including up to 5 grams of concentrate. You cannot consume marijuana while driving or riding as a passenger — it’s treated similarly to open container alcohol laws. And while marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is still DUI under A.R.S. § 28-1381.

Crossing State Lines

This is where it gets dangerous. Transporting marijuana across state lines is a federal crime — regardless of whether it’s legal in both states. Even driving from Arizona to Colorado (both recreational-legal states), you’re technically committing a federal offense when you cross the border with marijuana in your vehicle.

Texas and Utah — both bordering Arizona — have not legalized recreational marijuana. Getting caught with Arizona-legal marijuana in those states means you’re subject to their criminal penalties.

Flying

TSA is a federal agency. Federal law classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. While TSA’s stated mission is security (not drug enforcement), if they discover marijuana during screening, they are required to refer the matter to local law enforcement. What happens next depends on the jurisdiction — but flying internationally with marijuana is a guaranteed disaster in virtually every country.

International Travel

Don’t. Just don’t. Drug laws in foreign countries range from strict to draconian. Even countries with relaxed domestic marijuana policies may impose severe penalties on foreign nationals caught importing drugs. Canada is legal but you must declare at the border and follow Canadian possession limits.

The Bottom Line

Enjoy Arizona’s legal marijuana in Arizona. Don’t cross state lines with it, don’t fly with it, and absolutely don’t take it to another country. The Law Badgers handle cannabis law matters — if you’re facing charges related to marijuana, we can help.