Virginia has seen major changes in cannabis laws over the last few years. If you’re wondering whether you can legally use marijuana in the state—for medical or recreational reasons—you’re not alone. Laws have shifted rapidly, and keeping up can be confusing.
This article breaks down exactly what’s legal, what’s not, and what you need to know whether you’re a patient, a casual user, or just curious.
Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Virginia?
Yes—but with strict limits. As of July 1, 2021, adults 21 years or older are allowed to possess and use marijuana for personal recreational use in Virginia. However, that doesn’t mean everything is fair game.
Here’s what adults 21+ can legally do:
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Possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana in public.
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Use marijuana at home or on private property (with the owner’s permission).
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Grow up to four marijuana plants per household (not per person), but they must be:
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Grown at your primary residence.
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Kept out of public view.
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Labeled with your name and ID.
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Share (not sell) up to 1 ounce with another adult (21+).
What’s still illegal?
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Buying or selling recreational marijuana.
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Using cannabis in public or while driving.
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Driving under the influence (DUI) of cannabis.
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Possessing more than 1 ounce in public (which can lead to fines or charges).
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Taking cannabis across state lines (even to another legal state).
So while possession and personal use are legal, purchasing recreational cannabis legally in Virginia is still not allowed—for now.
What About Medical Marijuana?
Medical cannabis is fully legal in Virginia and regulated through the state’s medical program. If you have a qualifying medical condition, you can get approved to buy medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
Here’s how to get started:
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Get a certification from a registered Virginia healthcare provider (doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner).
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Apply to the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, though as of July 1, 2022, the Board no longer requires a separate registration card—just your doctor’s certification and a valid ID.
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Visit one of the state-approved medical dispensaries to fill your prescription.
Qualifying conditions include:
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Chronic pain
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Cancer
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Anxiety
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PTSD
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Epilepsy
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Multiple sclerosis
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Crohn’s disease
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And other medical conditions that your doctor deems suitable for cannabis treatment
Can You Buy Cannabis in Virginia?
This is where things get tricky.
For recreational users:
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There are no licensed retail dispensaries for recreational cannabis yet in Virginia.
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That means you can’t legally buy marijuana—even though you’re allowed to possess and use it.
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Many residents either grow their own (up to 4 plants), receive it from someone else legally (sharing, not selling), or travel out-of-state—which is illegal.
For medical patients:
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You can legally buy cannabis at licensed medical dispensaries across Virginia with your medical certification.
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These dispensaries offer flower, edibles, tinctures, vape cartridges, and more—all tested and regulated.
What Happens If You Break the Law?
Despite relaxed rules, violating Virginia’s cannabis laws can still lead to penalties:
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Possessing more than 1 ounce but less than 4 ounces in public = Civil fine up to $25 (first offense).
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More than 4 ounces to 1 pound = Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine.
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More than 1 pound = Felony.
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Selling cannabis = Serious offense, especially without a license.
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Driving high = Treated similarly to drunk driving (DUI), with potential for arrest, fines, and license suspension.
Always remember: just because cannabis is legal doesn’t mean it’s free of consequences.
The Future of Cannabis in Virginia
While recreational possession and use are legal, the lack of a legal market for buying cannabis remains a major gap. The Virginia General Assembly has debated bills to launch a state-licensed cannabis market, but as of 2025, retail sales remain on hold due to political disagreements.
Still, medical access continues to expand, and more dispensaries are opening statewide.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis laws in Virginia are a mix of progress and patience. You can legally use marijuana, but you can’t legally buy it for recreational use—yet. If you’re a medical patient, you have better access and protections.
For now, make sure you understand the limits, avoid public use, and don’t attempt to sell or transport cannabis across state lines. As laws continue to evolve, staying informed is the best way to enjoy your rights—responsibly and legally.
