In the state of Illinois, it’s legal to use, possess and buy cannabis. But how are you supposed to transport it, and what happens if you transport it illegally? This guide explains.
Illegal Transportation of Medical and Recreational Cannabis in Illinois
In Illinois, it’s illegal to possess or transport medical or recreational marijuana in the passenger area of your vehicle unless you contain it in a sealed, odor-proof and child-resistant container. If you transport it in any other manner, such as in a bag or out in the open, you may face criminal penalties.
Related: 3 big ways a DUI conviction will change your life
What Kind of Weed is Legal in Illinois?
Illinois allows people to possess up to 30 grams of marijuana – that’s about an ounce. However, you’re not allowed to smoke, vape or otherwise consume this marijuana in a motor vehicle or in a public space. You’re also not allowed to travel across state borders with any amount of marijuana, and you’re never allowed to purchase it from an individual. You must be 21 or older to legally use or possess it, as well.
You absolutely cannot drive a motorized vehicle, including a car, truck, motorcycle, boat or snowmobile, while using marijuana or while being under its influence.
Related: 3 ways to beat a DUI charge in Illinois
Criminal Penalties for Illegal Transportation of Marijuana
If the police catch you transporting marijuana in an unlawful manner – again, that’s in the passenger area of a vehicle unless it’s in a sealed, odor-proof and child-resistant container – you’re facing serious legal penalties. The penalties depend on several circumstances:
- If you have a medical marijuana card, you’ll have your card revoked for two years.
- If you have a medical marijuana card, your first conviction for illegally transporting marijuana will result in the state suspending your driver’s license for six months. Your second conviction will result in the state suspending your driver’s license for a year.
- If you use recreational marijuana and transport it illegally, it’s a moving violation. If the state convicts you of three moving violations within a 12 month period, your driver’s license will be suspended.
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