Recreational cannabis is legal in 24 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., as well as in several countries including Canada, Uruguay, Malta, and Germany. These jurisdictions allow adults 21 and older to buy and possess limited amounts of cannabis for non-medical use. The exact rules vary by location, but most share common age limits and possession caps.
Where is Cannabis Legal: Cost Comparison
Which U.S. states have legal recreational cannabis?
As of 2025, the following states have legalized recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. Washington, D.C., also allows recreational use. Some states have legal possession but retail sales are still rolling out, such as Virginia and Delaware.
Where Is Cannabis Legal? Age Limits by State
How much cannabis can you possess or buy?
Most legal states allow adults to possess 1 to 2 ounces (28 to 56 grams) of cannabis flower in public. Colorado and Washington, for example, limit public possession to 1 ounce. Some states like Maine allow up to 2.5 ounces. Home cultivation is permitted in many states, often with limits of 6 to 12 plants per household.
where is cannabis legal map 2025
Is recreational cannabis legal outside the United States?
Several countries have legalized recreational cannabis. Canada legalized it nationwide in 2018, and Uruguay became the first country to do so in 2013. Malta legalized possession and home growing in 2021. Luxembourg allows home use only. Germany legalized limited possession and cannabis social clubs in 2024. South Africa permits private use by adults following a 2018 court ruling.
Where Is Cannabis Legal? 2025 Update on U.S. States and Global Laws
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy recreational cannabis if I am 18?
No. Every U.S. state and country with legal recreational cannabis requires buyers to be at least 21 years old. Medical cannabis programs may allow younger patients with a doctor's recommendation.
Which U.S. states have medical cannabis only?
Several states have medical cannabis but not recreational, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Dakota, Ohio? (Ohio has recreational now), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. These states require a medical card to purchase cannabis.
Is cannabis legal on federal land?
No. Cannabis remains illegal under U.S. federal law. You cannot possess or use it on federal property, including national parks and airports, even if you are in a legal state.