New Super Store Logo1 copy
0
$0.00 0 items

No products in the cart.

New Super Store Logo1 copy
0
$0.00 0 items

No products in the cart.

New Super Store Logo1 copy
0
$0.00 0 items

No products in the cart.

New Super Store Logo1 copy
0
$0.00 0 items

No products in the cart.

Can You Have a Commercial Driving License (CDL) and a Medical Marijuana Card?

jennifer williams cbd content writer
Jennifer Williams
March 26, 2023
Evidence Based
This post has 4 references

The use of medical marijuana is becoming increasingly common, but what happens when you also hold a Commercial Driving License (CDL)? 

Can you legally have both? In this article, we will delve into the complexities surrounding CDLs and medical marijuana cards, discussing the laws governing these two areas and providing guidance for commercial drivers who may be facing this dilemma. So buckle up and get ready for an informative ride!

Does the Cole Memo Protect CDL Drivers?

The Cole Memo, which was issued in 2013 by the U.S. Department of Justice, provides guidance to prosecutors and law enforcement officials on how to prioritize cases involving the possession, distribution, and cultivation of marijuana. 

A woman holding Commercial Driving License

The Cole Memo does not explicitly protect CDL holders who use medical marijuana, but it does suggest that states should not prosecute individuals who are in compliance with state law. 

This could be interpreted to mean that CDL holders who use medical marijuana in states where it is legal should not be prosecuted by the federal government.

Are Protections in Place for CDL Drivers Needing Medical Marijuana in Any State?

Yes, there are protections in place for CDL drivers needing medical marijuana in some states. For example, in Colorado, it is against the law to fire a CDL driver solely for testing positive for marijuana. 

In addition, some states have ” reciprocity agreements ” with other states that recognize medical marijuana cards from those states. 

This means that a driver with a medical marijuana card from one of those states can still drive in another state that has a reciprocity agreement with their home state.

What About CBD and CDLs?

CBD is short for cannabidiol, and it is one of the many cannabinoids found in marijuana. Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects. 

This means that it will not make you high. However, CBD does have medical benefits. It has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, pain, and inflammation.

So, what does this mean for CDL holders? Currently, the DOT (Department of Transportation) does not allow drivers to use cannabis, regardless of whether it contains THC or CBD. 

This includes medical marijuana. If a driver tests positive for cannabis, they will be disqualified from holding a CDL.

d8 superstore 15% coupon code

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to the rule that CDL holders cannot have a medical marijuana card. 

  • First, if you live in a state where recreational and medical marijuana are both legal, you may be able to hold both a CDL and a medical marijuana card. 
  • Second, if you only use CBD products that are low in THC, you may also be able to hold both a CDL and a medical marijuana card. 
  • Third, if you have a CDL from before the DOT’s policy change in 2016, you may be grandfathered in and allowed to keep your CDL even if you have a medical marijuana card.

Resources:

jennifer williams cbd content writer

Jennifer Williams - Expert cannabis author

Jennifer Williams is a freelance writer from Vancouver, Canada specializing in CBD and delta 8 THC cannabis. She’s read thousands of studies on CBD and other supplements, helping her translate complex science into plain language. Jennifer has tried and reviewed dozens of CBD brands and products, written third-party testing reports, and knows the CBD and delta-8 THC industry inside and out. 

All your favorite brands

We source all your favorite brands. If we don't have it, tell us, and we'll find it for you.

Unbeatable prices

We cut the middle man out to offer you the best possible prices with weekly promotions.

Fast, free shipping

All the good sh*t—delivered straight to your door in beautiful, discreet packaging

Sourced in the U.S.

Our products are ethically sourced and strictly tested in the United States.

Copyright © 2023 D8 Super Store
age checker logo 370x53 1
TrustBadge1sezzle logo

THC DISCLAIMER

PRODUCTS ON THIS SITE CONTAIN A VALUE OF 0.3% OR LESS Δ9-THC (OR NO MORE THAN 0.3% Δ9-THC).

GOVERNMENT WARNING

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. THE DELTA-9 TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL CONTAINED IN THIS PRODUCT DOES NOT EXCEED 0.3% ON A DRY WEIGHT BASIS. DO NOT USE IF YOU ARE A PREGNANT, NURSING, SUFFERING FROM ANY MEDICAL CONDITIONS(S), OR ON MEDICATION. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER BEFORE TAKING. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND ANIMALS. THIS PRODUCT MAY IMPAIR YOUR ABILITY TO DRIVE OR OPERATE MACHINERY.

Shopping cart0
There are no products in the cart!
Continue shopping