Puerto Rico Marijuana Compliance
In Puerto Rico, the recreational use of marijuana is illegal. Its possession, cultivation, and sale are considered felonies. Even having related paraphernalia can be punished with 2 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Yet, using marijuana for medical reasons is permitted if the individual has the proper medical authorization.
Employers in Puerto Rico have the option to initiate drug testing programs to determine if prospective or existing employees are using prohibited substances, including marijuana. However, they must adhere to the legislation governing drug tests in the private sector. This means protecting the confidentiality of those tested and avoiding bias in drug testing programs.
To register for a drug test, sign up by using the "Get Started" button below. If you have any questions or if you wish to register via phone, you can reach us at (888) 378-2499.
This Information Is Not Intended for Legal Purposes
The information provided on this page is intended for your own knowledge, and should not be used for legal matters. Since marijuana testing regulations can vary, we advise you to seek the guidance of expert legal counsel when creating your company's substance abuse screening program.
Puerto Rico Marijuana Compliance
Puerto Rico Marijuana Laws
Overall Status: Partially Legal
Marijuana is illegal in Puerto Rico except for medical use under qualifying medical conditions. Recreational marijuana is fully illegal under Puerto Rico marijuana laws. Possession or distribution of cannabis or paraphernalia is considered a felony, with penalties of prison time and thousands of dollars in fines.
Medical Marijuana: Legal
Since 2015, medical marijuana has been permitted in Puerto Rico following Executive Order 2015-10 approved by Alejandro Garcia Padilla. The market officially opened for medical marijuana sales in 2017. Patients with medical marijuana cards are allowed to purchase a supply for up to thirty days; however, they cannot buy flowers or any form meant for smoking. Growing marijuana remains illegal.
Decriminalized: No
Marijuana is legal in Puerto Rico only for medical use. Otherwise, the possession, cultivation, or sale are felonies, which can be punished by up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines on the first offense.
Recreational Marijuana: Illegal
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Puerto Rico. Until recently, any amount of marijuana was punishable with fines and prison time. However, in 2015, Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla signed an executive order not to prosecute and imprison people who possess six grams or less of marijuana.
Last updated 1/16/2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana legal in Puerto Rico?
Marijuana is illegal in Puerto Rico except for medical use. However, even medical patients cannot have marijuana in any smokable form, and its cultivation is prohibited.
What is the punishment for distribution of marijuana in Puerto Rico?
The distribution of marijuana in Puerto Rico is strictly prohibited, and harsh penalties can incur. For the first offense, penalties can include 5 to 20 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines. For a first offense involving a minor, prison time is increased to 10 to 48 years, and fines may be up to $40,000. Subsequent offenses, with or without the involvement of a minor, carry even heavier consequences.
What is Puerto Rico's history with marijuana?
Medical marijuana has been legal in Puerto Rico since 2015 when Alejandro J. Garcia Padilla approved Executive Order 2015-10. Then, Regulation 8766 was passed in 2016, and sales of medical marijuana began in 2017. Medical marijuana cardholders are subject to strict regulations and restrictions. Recreational marijuana remains illegal.
Drug Panels That Exclude Marijuana
Urine Drug Panels That Exclude Marijuana Testing
Some of the popular drug panels that remove marijuana testing are listed below:
Also try taking a look at our comprehensive list of urine drug tests that exclude marijuana, where you'll find a complete list of drug tests that do not include THC testing under the "Exclude Marijuana" section.
Hair Drug Panels That Exclude Marijuana Testing
Two of our popular hair tests allow for the option to exclude marijuana from the panel of substances being tested. These include:
For a complete list of our hair drug tests, take a look at our comprehensive list of hair tests.
Drug Panels That Include Marijuana
Urine Drug Panels That Include Marijuana Testing
Many of our testing options include marijuana testing. Below are some of the most popular urine drug tests including marijuana:
Also try taking a look at our comprehensive list of urine drug tests that include marijuana.
Hair Drug Panels That Include Marijuana Testing
Our variety of hair drug tests include many options for marijuana testing. Some of the most commonly ordered hair drug tests are:
A comprehensive list of the hair drug tests that we offer can be found here.