When cannabis enthusiasts or medical marijuana patients plan a sunny getaway to Ft. Myers, Florida, one question often tops their list: Can I legally purchase and consume cannabis if I have a medical card from another state? The short and clear answer is no—Florida does not currently recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards for legal purchase, possession, or use.
Florida’s medical marijuana laws are structured around a state-specific program administered through the Florida Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry. To be considered a “qualified patient” in the Sunshine State, an individual must be registered in that program and hold a Florida-issued medical marijuana card.
For visitors who fly in with a valid medical marijuana card from elsewhere—such as California, Colorado, or neighboring states—their card unfortunately holds no legal weight in Ft. Myers or anywhere else in Florida. Local dispensaries are legally prohibited from accepting out-of-state medical cards at the point of sale. Even if a visitor is a long-time medical patient at home, they cannot legally walk into a Florida dispensary and make a purchase without a Florida card.
Why Doesn’t Florida Honor Other States’ Cards?
Unlike states that allow medical cannabis reciprocity or temporary visitor access, Florida maintains one of the more restrictive medical marijuana frameworks in the country. There is no reciprocity agreement and no temporary or tourist medical card option available.
The only limited exception applies to individuals who qualify as seasonal residents. Those who spend a significant portion of the year in Florida and can document a temporary residence may be eligible to apply for a Florida medical marijuana card. However, this process still requires a Florida-licensed physician evaluation and approval, and it is not designed for short vacations or brief stays.
What Happens If a Visitor Tries to Buy or Use Cannabis in Ft. Myers?
Florida has not legalized recreational marijuana, meaning cannabis possession without a valid Florida medical card remains illegal under state law. This includes possessing cannabis legally obtained in another state. Visitors should also be aware that transporting cannabis across state lines—even for medical use—is prohibited under federal law.
Because of this, bringing cannabis into Florida from another state or attempting to purchase it locally without proper authorization can lead to serious legal consequences.
What Are Visitors’ Legal Options?
Visitors who rely on cannabis for medical reasons are encouraged to plan ahead. Speaking with a healthcare provider about legal alternatives during travel is a smart step. Those planning extended stays may explore whether they qualify as seasonal residents and can pursue Florida’s medical card process. Staying informed is also important, as cannabis laws and legislative proposals continue to evolve across the state.
Final Thoughts
At this time, visitors to Ft. Myers cannot legally purchase or consume cannabis using an out-of-state medical marijuana card. While the rules can be disappointing for traveling patients, understanding Florida’s laws ahead of time helps ensure a safe, stress-free visit. Until reciprocity or law changes occur, compliance with state regulations remains essential for anyone visiting Southwest Florida.
