Caregiver requirements include providing current acceptable identification that proves Massachusetts residency. You can use two of the following forms of identification, A valid driver’s license, state ID card, U.S. passport or Military ID with a clear photo. However, if you use a military ID you must provide proof of residency with a document like a utility bill. Additionally, a personal caregiver must be at least 21 years of age and a Massachusetts resident. A caregiver must renew their MMJ card annually for it to remain valid. Once approved by the state, the caregiver will be given a specific registration number allowing them to purchase cannabis products on the patient’s behalf.

Since Massachusetts legally sells both recreational and medicinal cannabis, the possession and cultivation laws for adult use are the same. The specific rules reported by the state include: you can’t use marijuana in any form (smoking, vaping, edibles, etc.) in public or on federal land; you can have up to 1 oz on your person and up to 10 oz in your home; you can grow up to 6 plants in your home and up to 12 plants for 2 or more adults; and if you have more than 1 oz of marijuana in your home, it has to be locked up, but it’s best to keep any amount locked away to keep kids and pets safe.

Additionally, like alcohol, you can’t have an open container of any form of marijuana in the passenger area of your car while on the road or at a place where the public has access, and it must be stored in a closed container in your trunk or a locked glove compartment. It’s illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana; if you use, don’t get behind the wheel. Instead, use public transportation, ride-shares, or catch a ride with a sober friend.

Medical cannabis users and non-patients alike should be informed that their “employers, landlords, cities, and towns may have their own policies about the use of marijuana,” according to the state.

The state of Massachusetts doesn’t accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards. However, MA is a recreational marijuana state for anyone over the age of 21. State law does allow out-of-state visitors to possess medical marijuana up to 1 ounce.