What You Need to Know about Cannabis in Illinois

Illinois launched the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act in August of 2013, legalizing the use of medical marijuana in the state and created a registry program for patients with qualifying conditions. In addition to adding qualifying conditions for medical marijuana, the pilot program became permanent six years later.

Illinois became the eleventh state to legalize recreational cannabis in 2019 for purchase from licensed dispensaries for people 21 and older. The state was the first to do so by an act of the state legislature rather than a ballot initiative.

Adult Use Cannabis Law

Adults over 21 are able to legally purchase cannabis for recreational use from licensed dispensaries across Illinois.

Possession limit for Illinois residents:

  • 30 grams of cannabis flower;
  • 5 grams of cannabis concentrate;
  • 500 milligrams of THC contained in cannabis‐infused product; or
  • People may possess more than 30 grams of cannabis if it is grown and secured in their residence under certain conditions

Possession limit for non‐Illinois residents:

  • 15 grams of cannabis flower;
  • 2.5 grams of cannabis concentrate; or
  • 250 milligrams of THC contained in cannabis‐infused product.

The possession limits are to be considered cumulative.

“When I made the switch to become a medical cannabis card holder, I decided to try out BG products for my migraines and hoped it would be a better alternative to over-the-counter medication. To my satisfaction, BG products have always been my go-to for quality products when it comes to both flower and edibles. They have gained my full trust when it comes to quality products and has really helped with my symptoms.”

Jose Gonzalez, Medical Cannabis Patient — Illinois

Why Do They Scan My ID?

As in other states, Illinois dispensaries scan your government-issued ID to confirm your ID is valid and up-to-date. They’re required to make sure your ID matches who you are and verify that you’re at least 21 years old.

To protect your privacy, Illinois law prohibits dispensaries from collecting and storing personal information of adult‐use cannabis buyers. The law is similar for medical patients. They have to present their Medical Cannabis Patient ID card upon entry into a dispensary.