NV Cannabis Laws Explained: Your Guide to Legal Purchases

Since July 1, 2017, adults aged 21 and older can legally purchase recreational cannabis in Nevada. However, strict rules apply, including ID requirements and limits on where you can consume cannabis. For example, dispensaries do not accept temporary IDs, as only valid government-issued photo IDs are allowed.

This guide covers key laws, including purchasing limits, legal consumption areas, and other essential information to help you enjoy cannabis safely and legally in Nevada.

1. How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy Cannabis in Nevada?

To purchase legal cannabis you must be at least 21 years old, corresponding to the date-of-birth on their government issued ID. Like alcohol or tobacco sales, individuals must present valid ID with every purchase.

2. Do Dispensaries Accept Temporary IDs?

No, dispensaries in Nevada do not accept temporary IDs for purchasing cannabis. This is because temporary IDs often lack a photograph and are more susceptible to forgery, which makes them non-compliant with state regulations. To purchase cannabis legally, you must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or passport. Medical cannabis cards from reciprocity states will also be accepted.

What Should You Do If You Only Have a Temporary ID?

If you only have a temporary ID, consider waiting until your permanent ID arrives or contacting your local DMV to expedite the process. Remember, dispensaries are required by law to strictly verify identification, and attempting to use an invalid ID may result in being denied entry or purchase. 

3. How Much Cannabis Can You Buy in Nevada?

You are allowed up to an ounce (28.35 grams) of cannabis or 3.5 grams of concentrate, including both oils and semi-solid concentrates per visit to the dispensary.

Individuals may not possess more than an ounce of cannabis at any given time, and may not openly display or use cannabis and cannabis products in public. Either may result in a $600 fine.

4. Where Can You Legally Consume Cannabis?

Consumption of cannabis is permitted only in private residences. Individuals may not consume cannabis in public, businesses or vehicles, which includes hotels and casinos. As mentioned above, violating this policy will result in a $600 fine and a misdemeanor charge.

5. Is It Legal to Gift or Sell Cannabis in Nevada?

Individuals may gift up to one ounce of cannabis flowers or 3.5 grams of concentrate to someone 21 and over legally if they receive no compensation in return. Sales or delivery of more than an ounce of cannabis is a felony and can carry a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in jail as well as a $5,000 fine for the first offense and a $10,000 fine for the second offense.

6. Can You Grow Cannabis in Nevada?

Growing cannabis in Nevada is legal only if you are a state resident and live at least 25 miles from the nearest dispensary. An individual may grow up to six plants, and a single property may grow up to 12 plants. Cultivating cannabis intended for someone else’s use is permitted as long as the plant limit is not exceeded.

The entire quantity harvested from the plant may be kept, and up to an ounce of cured cannabis flowers may be gifted.

7. Can You Cross State Lines with Cannabis?

No matter if you are entering from or leaving a state where cannabis possession is legal, no substances can cross the state line. Violating this rule could invoke federal law, which still considers any amount of possession illegal.

8. What Are the Rules About Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis?

Operating a vehicle while under the effects of cannabis is illegal and is considered driving under the influence or DUI. The official limit is 2 nanograms of THC per mL of blood or 5 nanograms per mL of cannabis metabolites, which indicate recent consumption. Police officers may also charge people affected by recent cannabis use “to a degree which renders the driver incapable of safely driving or exercising actual physical control of a vehicle.”

Violation of this law can lead to a three-month (90 day) suspension of your license, fines and possible jail time.

Where Can You Learn More About Buying Cannabis Legally in Nevada?

If you want to know exactly what you need to do to purchase cannabis legally in Nevada — including valid types of ID, business hours, delivery laws and which individuals may not be eligible —  you are best off contacting a dispensary in Las Vegas like Euphoria Wellness

While we cannot inform you about the nuances of possession law, cultivation or cannabis DUI, we know first-hand what we need to see in order to complete a legal sale. Call us today at 702-960-7200 for information and free cannabis delivery to a private residence.