logo
Alabama

Medcards.org

334-463-3495

Is Marijuana Legal in Alabama 2025

Home /Laws

Updated 14/08/2025

Is Marijuana Legal in Alabama 2025?

Recreational marijuana remains illegal in Alabama in 2025. Medical marijuana is permitted only under the Darren Wesley “Ato” Hall Compassion Act, codified in Ala. Code § 20-2A and enacted through Senate Bill 46. Oversight and administration of the program is provided by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC).

The law permits registered qualified patients to use medical cannabis when diagnosed with one or more qualifying medical conditions. Patients must be under the care of a licensed physician who is authorized to certify medical cannabis use. Individuals who meet eligibility criteria must apply for and obtain a state-issued medical cannabis card, which allows access to approved medical cannabis products through licensed dispensaries operating under AMCC regulation.

Alabama Marijuana Possession Laws

Under Alabama law, the possession of marijuana remains illegal unless specifically authorized under the Darren Wesley “Ato” Hall Compassion Act (Ala. Code § 20-2A).

Registered qualified patients and registered caregivers may legally possess medical cannabis if they hold a valid medical cannabis card issued by the AMCC. Possession is limited to approved medical cannabis products, such as tablets, capsules, tinctures, patches, and other non-smokable forms, and may not exceed 70 daily dosages as established by statute and physician certification.

Possession of marijuana outside the AMCC program, including raw plant material or products not permitted by law, remains illegal. A first conviction for possession for personal use may result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000. Possession for purposes other than personal use, or personal use with a prior conviction, is classified as a felony and carries more severe penalties.

Marijuana also remains a prohibited substance under federal law and is listed as a Schedule I controlled substance.

Alabama Marijuana Cultivation Laws

The cultivation of marijuana without authorization remains illegal in Alabama. Growing marijuana plants for personal use or distribution outside the state-regulated program is classified as a Class B felony. Penalties may include imprisonment for a period of 2 to 20 years and fines of up to $30,000.

The Darren Wesley “Ato” Hall Compassion Act (Ala. Code § 20-2A) authorizes the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) to issue a limited number of cultivator licenses. Licensed cultivators are permitted to grow cannabis plants and transfer them only within the state’s medical cannabis system, under strict security, tracking, and regulatory requirements. All transfers must occur through licensed secure transporters, and no more than 12 cultivator licenses may be issued statewide.

Alabama Marijuana Penalties

The penalties for marijuana-related offenses in Alabama can be severe. In addition to the penalties mentioned for possession and cultivation, the sale, distribution, or trafficking of marijuana is also illegal. The penalties for these offenses can range from imprisonment for a period of two to 99 years, along with fines ranging from $25,000 to $1 million. It is important to note that these penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the offense.

Offense Offense/Details Penalty/Classification
Possession Second-degree (personal use only) Class A misdemeanor
First-degree (non-personal use) Class C felony
First-degree (personal use + prior conviction) Class D felony
Distribution Unlawful distribution (Schedules I–V, includes cannabis) Class B felony
Possession with intent to distribute Class C felony (under 13A-12-211)
Trafficking in Cannabis >1 kg but <100 lbs 3 years min. + $25,000 fine (Class A felony)
100–499 lbs 5 years min. + $50,000 fine
500–999 lbs 15 years min. + $200,000 fine
≥1,000 lbs Life without parole
Drug Trafficking Enterprise Act First conviction (with ≥5 people, managerial role, income-based) 25 years–life without parole + $50,000–$500,000 fine
Second conviction Life without parole + $150,000–$1,000,000 fine
Drug Paraphernalia Possession for personal use Class A misdemeanor
Intent to use in manufacturing Class C felony
With firearm during paraphernalia offense Class B felony
Sale or delivery (knowing it will be used with controlled substances) Class A misdemeanor
Repeat paraphernalia sale offense Class C felony
Adult sells to minor (≥3 years younger) Class B felony

Who can recommend medical marijuana in Alabama?

In Alabama, only qualified physicians can recommend medical marijuana. These physicians must be licensed by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission and have completed the necessary training and certification. The Compassion Act outlines the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use, which include conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain, and PTSD, among others. Patients who meet the criteria can consult with a qualified physician to determine if medical marijuana is a suitable treatment option for their condition.

Common Questions about Alabama Marijuana Laws.

Can you smoke marijuana in public in the state of Alabama? arrow

Can anyone go to a dispensary in Alabama? arrow

Is marijuana a felony in Alabama? arrow

What happens if you get caught with marijuana in Alabama? arrow

How much is a possession of marijuana ticket in Alabama? arrow

Are edibles legal in Alabama? arrow

Is CBD legal in Alabama? arrow