Can I take cannabis across Washington state lines? What law says

While the Seattle area typically sees millions of visitors throughout the year, the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is bringing extra tourists to Washington state.

Seattle’s Lumen Field has already hosted five World Cup matches, including a knockout round. Team USA will take on Belgium in a Roundup of 16 game in Seattle on Monday, July 6.

While many visitors are from outside the United States, there are even more out-of-state visitors staying in the Evergreen State.

While here, these visitors might take advantage of Washington state staples such as local coffee shops and fresh seafood. They may even stop by one of the state’s many cannabis dispensaries.

Washington state was among the first states to legalize cannabis consumption for medical and recreational purposes.

Can out-of-state visitors buy weed in Washington? Are you allowed to bring cannabis products across the border into Idaho or another state?

Here’s what you need to know:

Can out-of-state visitors buy weed in WA?

To purchase cannabis in Washington state, you do not need to live in the state.

You must be at least 21 years old and present a valid government-issued ID to buy weed, according to the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.

Tourists who purchase weed products in Washington state are still expected to know the relevant laws regarding cannabis consumption.

For instance, you’re now allowed to smoke cannabis in public places such as streets, sidewalks or parks.

The Washington State Department of Licensing defines driving under the influence of intoxicants as “operating a vehicle while affected by alcohol, drugs or both.”

If your blood has a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher “within two hours after driving,” you can be found guilty of DUI, state law says.

If driving with cannabis in the car, all products must be sealed shut in their original packaging, or kept in the trunk or “some other area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or other passengers,” according to the Revised Code of Washington.

The glove or utility compartment is not sufficient, the law says.

Can I take weed purchased in Washington to another state?

You cannot transport cannabis products across state lines — even when you purchased them legally in Washington state.

For instance, you may be breaking the law by transporting cannabis into another state.

Idaho, which borders Washington state to the east, is one of four states that has yet to decriminalize cannabis.

Cannabis is considered a Schedule 1 controlled substance under Idaho law and the Controlled Substances Act.

“As such, the use and sale of marijuana for any purpose is illegal in Idaho,” the Idaho Office of Drug Policy said.

If you’re caught with weed in the Gem State, you could face thousands of dollars in fines and years in jail.

What if I’m traveling to a state where cannabis is legal?

Medical and recreational consumption of cannabis is legal in Oregon and Montana.

However, you cannot take your cannabis products across the border, even if you’re traveling to a weed-friendly state.

In the United States, transporting cannabis products between states is considered drug trafficking, a federal felony.

Can I bring cannabis products on the plane?

If you’re traveling by plane, you’re under federal jurisdiction.

Because cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, you are not supposed to fly with cannabis products.

According to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, medical marijuana may be allowed in checked and carry-on bags, but it’s up to the discretion of the TSA officer.

“TSA security officers do not search for illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance or evidence of criminal activity is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer,” the agency said.

Out-of-state visitors who purchase weed in Washington state should consume or dispose of any products before traveling back home.

This article contains information from a previous story originally published in March 2023.

This story was originally published July 5, 2026 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Can I take cannabis across Washington state lines? What law says."