Can I Travel with Cannabis in Minnesota?

Everything you need to know about transporting cannabis legally within and beyond state lines

Now that cannabis is legal in Minnesota, many people wonder about the rules for traveling with it. Whether you’re driving across Forest Lake or planning a road trip, Forest Lake Dispensary has the answers you need to stay legal and safe.

Quick Answers

Within Minnesota

Yes, you can transport cannabis within state borders following proper storage rules.

By Air (Any Flight)

No. Federal law prohibits cannabis on all flights, even within legal states.

Across State Lines

No. Crossing any state border with cannabis is a federal crime, even between legal states.

How to Properly Transport Cannabis in Your Vehicle

Follow these steps to stay compliant when driving with cannabis in Minnesota

1

Use Original Packaging

Keep products in dispensary packaging with labels intact

2

Seal It Up

Store in a closed container—preferably one that locks

3

Trunk Storage

Place in trunk or cargo area, not within driver’s reach

4

Keep Receipts

Save purchase receipts to prove legal acquisition

In-Vehicle Rules: What You Must Know

Never Consume While Driving

It is illegal to consume cannabis in any form while operating a vehicle or as a passenger. This includes smoking, vaping, and eating edibles. Violations can result in DUI charges with serious penalties.

Open Container Laws Apply

Similar to alcohol, Minnesota has open container laws for cannabis:

  • Opened packages must be stored out of driver and passenger reach
  • Best practice: Always store in the trunk
  • If no trunk exists (SUV, hatchback), use the cargo area behind the last seat
  • Never leave cannabis products visible in the vehicle

💡 Pro Tip: Get a Lockbox

Invest in a small lockbox for your vehicle. This demonstrates responsible storage and keeps your cannabis secure. Many concentrates and vaporizers fit easily in compact lockboxes.

Crossing State Lines: The Federal Problem

Minnesota’s Neighboring States

Even though some neighboring states have legalized cannabis, transporting it across ANY state line is a federal crime. Here’s the current status of Minnesota’s neighbors:

Wisconsin – Illegal (CBD only)
Iowa – Illegal (limited medical)
South Dakota – Medical only
North Dakota – Medical only
Michigan – Fully legal (not bordering)
Illinois – Fully legal (not bordering)
Recreational Legal
Medical Only
Illegal/Very Limited

Federal Law Is Clear

Transporting cannabis across state lines violates federal law regardless of the legal status in either state. This applies even when driving between two fully legal states. The moment you cross a state border with cannabis, you’re committing a federal trafficking offense.

Common Travel Scenarios

Allowed Driving from Forest Lake to Minneapolis with cannabis

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This is perfectly legal as long as you follow proper storage rules. Keep your flower, edibles, or other products within possession limits, store them in a closed container in your trunk, and don’t consume while driving.

Prohibited Flying from MSP Airport with cannabis

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Airports are under federal jurisdiction, and TSA operates under federal law. Cannabis is prohibited on all flights—even flights entirely within Minnesota. TSA will refer cannabis discoveries to local law enforcement, which could result in confiscation or charges.

Prohibited Weekend trip to Wisconsin with your stash

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Never do this. Wisconsin has not legalized recreational cannabis, and crossing the state line with any amount is both a federal crime and a state crime in Wisconsin. You could face charges in both states. Consume your cannabis before you leave or leave it at home.

Allowed Taking an Uber home from the dispensary

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Yes, you can transport legally purchased cannabis in rideshare vehicles as a passenger. Keep products in their original, sealed packaging. Be courteous to your driver—some may have personal policies about cannabis transport, though they cannot legally refuse you for carrying sealed, legal products.

Prohibited Bringing Minnesota cannabis to a concert in Chicago

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Even though Illinois has legal recreational cannabis, you cannot transport Minnesota cannabis across state lines. If you want cannabis for your Chicago trip, you’ll need to purchase it legally in Illinois from a licensed Illinois dispensary.

Allowed Storing cannabis in your camper/RV within Minnesota

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Yes, as long as cannabis is stored securely and not accessible to the driver while the vehicle is in motion. Use locked storage compartments. Remember: you still cannot consume cannabis while the RV is being operated, even if you’re a passenger. Park first, then enjoy responsibly.

Special Considerations

Rental Cars

Most rental car companies prohibit cannabis in their vehicles per their terms of service. Violating this policy could result in additional fees or being banned from the rental company. Check your rental agreement before transporting cannabis.

Commercial Vehicles

CDL holders and anyone operating a commercial vehicle cannot possess cannabis while on duty, even in legal states. Federal motor carrier regulations prohibit cannabis use for commercial drivers entirely.

What About CBD?

CBD products derived from hemp (under 0.3% THC) are federally legal and can generally be transported across state lines. However, some states have stricter CBD regulations, so research your destination before traveling with any hemp products.

Stock Up Before Your Minnesota Adventures

Visit Forest Lake Dispensary for quality cannabis products perfect for your in-state travels.

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