Cannabis Laws in Arkansas
Last updated May 2026
Overview of Cannabis in Arkansas
Arkansas voters approved medical cannabis through Issue 6 in 2016. The state has a limited number of licensed dispensaries serving qualified patients. A recreational legalization measure was on the 2022 ballot but did not pass. The medical program is administered by the Arkansas Department of Health.
Key Regulations in Arkansas
- Medical patients may possess up to 2.5 oz per 14 days
- No home cultivation allowed
- Only licensed dispensaries may sell cannabis
- Recreational use remains illegal
- Qualifying medical conditions required
How to Get a Medical Cannabis Card in Arkansas
Apply through the Arkansas Department of Health with a physician's certification of a qualifying condition. Qualifying conditions include cancer, glaucoma, PTSD, Crohn's disease, chronic pain, and several others. Cards are valid for one year.
Find Cannabis Doctors in Arkansas →Find Cannabis in Arkansas
Legal Cannabis Alternative in Arkansas
While recreational cannabis is not yet legal in Arkansas, hemp-derived THCA products are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill and available for delivery nationwide. THCA flower is molecularly identical to what licensed dispensaries sell — when heated, it converts to THC and delivers the same experience.
The key is knowing what to look for. Not all THCA products are created equal, and the difference between premium, lab-tested flower and unregulated gas station products is enormous. Think of it like steak: just because a gas station sells it doesn't mean it's Wagyu.
Read Our Complete THCA Guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is weed legal in Arkansas?
Cannabis in Arkansas is currently classified as: Medical Only. Medical cannabis is legal for qualifying patients. Recreational use is not currently permitted.
How do I get a medical card in Arkansas?
Apply through the Arkansas Department of Health with a physician's certification of a qualifying condition. Qualifying conditions include cancer, glaucoma, PTSD, Crohn's disease, chronic pain, and several others. Cards are valid for one year.
How much cannabis can I possess in Arkansas?
The current possession limit in Arkansas is: Medical: 2.5 oz per 14 days. Possession above legal limits may result in criminal penalties.
How many dispensaries are in Arkansas?
There are currently 75 cannabis dispensaries across 109 cities in Arkansas. Browse all Arkansas dispensaries.
Can I buy cannabis products legally in Arkansas?
While recreational cannabis is not legal in Arkansas, hemp-derived THCA products are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. THCA flower is the same compound found in dispensary cannabis — when heated, it converts to THC. The key is purchasing from reputable sources that provide third-party lab testing. Read our complete THCA guide to learn what to look for and how to avoid low-quality products.
