Holiday Travel and Your State Certification: What to Know Before You Go
Holiday travel brings excitement, busy schedules, and plenty of planning. But if you’re certified in Florida, traveling out of state comes with specific rules you should understand before you head to the airport or hit the road. Florida’s certification only applies within the state of Florida — which means the protections that apply to you here do not carry over to other states.
The first thing to know is that Florida’s state certification does not give you legal protection outside of Florida. Every state has its own laws, and your Florida card is not valid once you cross state lines. Some states have their own programs, some allow temporary patient registration, and others do not have a program at all. Because of this, it’s important to understand that your certification is state-specific and does not function like a nationwide credential.
It is also important to know that federal law prohibits transporting cannabis across state lines, even between two legal states. This applies to air travel and car travel, and it applies whether the trip is short, long, casual, or holiday-related. Even if you’re traveling between two states that both have medical or adult-use programs, crossing the border with cannabis is still illegal under federal law. The safest and most compliant approach is to avoid transporting anything regulated between states.
Another key point is air travel. Airports operate under federal jurisdiction, and the TSA follows federal law. Their focus is security, not enforcement, but if something is found during screening, they defer to local law enforcement. Because federal law prohibits transport, carrying cannabis through an airport — checked or carry-on — puts you at risk. Even if you’re flying from a Florida airport to another state with similar laws, the rules don’t change.
If you’re planning to travel for several days, this is where preparing early becomes helpful. Review your certification dates before leaving Florida, so you’re not due for renewal in the middle of your trip. If your renewal window falls near your travel dates, scheduling beforehand gives you the peace of mind of knowing everything is up to date. It also keeps you from having to complete paperwork or appointments from out of state, which may not be possible depending on your location.
It’s also smart to make sure your Florida ID has your current address and that you have easy access to your appointment confirmations or patient portal. You won’t be able to use your certification once you leave Florida, but keeping your documents updated prevents issues when you return.
Holiday plans can be unpredictable, but understanding the legal boundaries of your state certification helps you avoid complications and travel with clarity. If you’re unsure about your renewal date, need guidance before your trip, or want to double-check your eligibility, our team is always here to help you prepare before you leave the state.
