Is Weed Legal In Georgia?

Yes, weed is legal in Georgia, but only for medical use.

You still cannot use marijuana for fun in Georgia. That is illegal, and there are strict rules if you are caught with it. But the good news is, the state does allow low THC cannabis oil for people with certain health problems.

Before, the law only allowed oil with up to 5 percent THC. But now, with the new Georgia Medical Cannabis Expansion Act of 2025, the limit has gone up to 7 percent THC. This means patients can now get slightly stronger oil that may work better for them.

If you are thinking about using medical marijuana in Georgia, it is important to know what is allowed, who can qualify, and how to get it legally. This blog explains everything in a clear and simple way, whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or just someone trying to understand the rules better.

What are the Georgia Cannabis Laws?

Georgia maintains strict regulations regarding cannabis. While recreational marijuana remains illegal, the state has enacted specific legislation permitting limited medical use of low-THC oil. The table below summarizes the legal status of various cannabis-related activities:

About Cannabis Laws:

Haleigh’s Hope Act (HB 1, 2015):

This groundbreaking law established the Low THC Oil Registry, allowing qualified patients with specific medical conditions to legally possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil.

Georgia’s Hope Act (HB 324, 2019):

Building on the earlier law, this act permitted in-state cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution of low-THC oil through licensed businesses, making access easier for registered patients.

Senate Bill 494 (2024):

Most recently, this law tightened hemp product regulations, setting limits on delta-9-THC concentrations and requiring licenses for cultivation, manufacturing, and retail sale.

Low-THC Medical Cannabis Oil in Georgia

Who Qualifies for Medical Cannabis in Georgia?

Qualifying Medical Conditions in Georgia:

You may qualify for medical cannabis in Georgia if you have one of the following state-approved conditions:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Cancer
• Crohn’s disease
• Intractable pain
• Mitochondrial disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Seizure disorders
• Sickle cell disease
• Tourette’s syndrome

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia?

Getting a Low THC oil registry card or medical marijuana card in Georgia is the only legal way to access low-THC cannabis oil. Follow this step-by-step process to stay compliant with Georgia marijuana laws and begin treatment legally.

1. Step-by-Step Medical Marijuana Card Process

a. Get Diagnosed with a Qualifying Condition

You must have a state-approved medical condition such as cancer, seizures, chronic pain, or PTSD, etc.

b. Book an Appointment with a Registered Physician

Only a Georgia-licensed doctor can certify your eligibility for medical cannabis and you can easily connect with them from websites like My MMJ Doctor.

c. Get Added to the Low THC Oil Registry

Your doctor submits your information to the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

d. Receive Your Registry Card

Once approved, pick up your Low THC Oil Card at a designated Public Health Office.

2. Required Documents

• Valid Georgia state ID or driver’s license
• Physician’s certification form (we can provide you with this)
• Signed waiver from the Georgia DPH website

3. Georgia Medical Marijuana Card Fees

Note:- The Georgia Low THC Oil Registry Card is valid for two years. To continue access, patients must renew their certification through a physician and reapply through the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Where Can You Buy Medical Cannabis in Georgia?

In Georgia, medical cannabis is available exclusively after having a state-approved cannabis card to registered patients holding a valid Low THC Oil Registry Card. These patients can purchase low-THC oil (containing no more than 5% THC) from state-licensed dispensaries.

Licensed Dispensaries in Georgia

You must be thinking, How do you pay for medical marijuana at a Georgia medical dispensary?

Most places take cash, and many have ATMs on-site. Some accept debit cards through apps like CanPay or as a cashless ATM (you get change back, with a small fee). A few also support bank apps like Aeropay. Credit cards usually don’t work.

Penalties for Illegal Weed Possession in Georgia

1. Statewide Penalties

Under Georgia state law:

• Possessing less than 1 oz is a misdemeanor
  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
• More than 1 oz is a felony
• 1 to 10 years in prison
• Heavier fines and a permanent criminal record

2. Local Ordinances: Atlanta vs. State Law

Cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Clarkston have decriminalized small amounts of marijuana:

• Possession under 1 oz may result in a $75–$150 fine
• No jail time in many cases
  However, state law still applies, and police can choose to charge under state rules.

3. First-Time vs. Repeat Offenses

• First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs or conditional discharge
• Repeat offenses carry stricter penalties, including mandatory jail time and felony charges

If you’re unsure about the rules in your city, it’s safest to assume all cannabis possession is illegal without medical authorization.

Conclusion

Georgia maintains a strict stance on cannabis. While recreational weed is still illegal, the state does allow limited access to low-THC medical marijuana oil for patients with qualifying conditions. There are no legal options for adult-use marijuana, and penalties for unlawful possession can be severe.

It’s important to follow Georgia’s cannabis laws carefully to avoid fines, arrest, or a criminal record. If you think you may qualify for medical marijuana in Georgia, check your eligibility with our quick and easy form, and speak with our licensed physician to explore your treatment options.

Looking to begin legally? A quick consultation could help you access medical cannabis oil safely and lawfully under Georgia law.

FAQs

• Can teachers or public workers in Georgia use medical cannabis?
  Registered patients may use low-THC oil, but school districts and state agencies may still restrict employee cannabis use.