Dispensaries for medical cannabis have been operational as of May 2019. The State’s initial launch was delayed, having only one dispensary open in the state for the first few months. More licenses were approved and eventually opened, resulting in $28.13 million in sales for the state in 2019.
Recreational cannabis is illegal in Arkansas at this time.
FAQs
Is recreational marijuana legal in Arkansas?
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Arkansas, and the state has some of the harshest laws in the nation.
Arkansas did legalize medical marijuana in 2016 however, allowing licensed patients safe access to medical marijuana products purchased from certified dispensaries.
How do I qualify for a medical cannabis license?
To qualify for a registry card for medical marijuana, you must:
Medical Marijuana Requirements
- Be 18 years of age or older or be a minor patient with parental consent.
- Be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition – click here to see a list of qualifying medical conditions.
- Have the official written certification from a physician.
- Be an Arkansas resident with proof of residency. (AR Driver’s License or AR State ID card).
- State law prohibits members of Arkansas National Guard and United States Military from obtaining a registry ID card.
Where can I consume cannabis in Arkansas?
Medical cannabis must be consumed in a private residence of a medical marijuana patient only. Using medical cannabis is prohibited in any public place where an individual could reasonably be expected to be observed by others (a public place includes all parts of buildings owned in a whole or in part, or leased, by the state or local unit of government).
Can I petition to have my condition included on the list?
Yes. You can find information on the process to petition here.
Do I need to be 18 years old to obtain my medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
No. Patients under 18 can apply with the consent of a parent/guardian. Additionally, parents/guardians will have to become a designated caregiver to purchase cannabis for the patient. The Arkansas Department of Health notes, “Parents or legal guardians of a minor with a qualifying condition are not required to complete Criminal History Check. Parent or guardian will still register as a caregiver and pay the registry card application fee,” which is $50.
Where can I buy medical marijuana in Arkansas?
Patients can only obtain cannabis from a licensed Arkansas dispensary.
How much medical marijuana can I purchase?
Qualified registered patients are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces from a dispensary every 14 days.
Can a license holder grow their own medical marijuana?
Arkansas does not allow medical cannabis patients to cultivate their own marijuana. All cannabis products must be obtained from a licensed dispensary.
What kind of medical cannabis products can I buy in Arkansas?
Cannabis can be purchased as flower, edibles (including baked goods), concentrates and transdermal products from a medical dispensary.
Can I become a caregiver in Arkansas?
Yes, caregivers are allowed under Arkansas medical marijuana laws. Caregivers must be 21 years of age or older and the only patients who qualify for caregivers are minors and those that are physically disabled. Other restrictions apply, please visit the “Caregiver” section of the PotGuide Arkansas legal page for more information.
I am from out of state, will Arkansas honor my medical marijuana card?
Patients with a medical marijuana registration from another state may apply for a temporary approval to purchase at Arkansas medical dispensaries. There is a non-refundable $50 application fee. If approved, the patient can purchase for a 30-day period, per application. Applications can be completed here.