Quick answer
Marijuana in Virginia: Recreational + medical legal. Virginia legalized adult-use marijuana by legislation in 2021. Adults 21 and older may possess up to one ounce and grow up to four plants at home, but there is no regulated retail market. State law provides some off-duty employment protections while preserving testing in safety-sensitive roles.
Key facts
- Recreational marijuana legal since 2021.
- Medical marijuana legal since 2015.
- Adults may typically possess up to 1 oz.
- Home cultivation permitted.
Workplace testing
Virginia restricts adverse employment action based solely on off-duty cannabis use, but employers can still test and act for safety-sensitive positions or when impairment is shown. A medical card does not provide blanket protection from testing.
Virginia law protects employees from adverse action based solely on lawful off-duty cannabis use, but employers may still restrict use in safety-sensitive roles and enforce workplace policies.
Detection & panels
See how long substances stay detectable in our detection chart, compare standard panels, or use the test finder. Local testing locations in Virginia are listed on the Virginia drug testing page.
Frequently asked questions
Is marijuana legal in Virginia?
Virginia status: Recreational + medical legal. Virginia legalized adult-use marijuana by legislation in 2021. Adults 21 and older may possess up to one ounce and grow up to four plants at home, but there is no regulated retail market. State law provides some off-duty employment protections while preserving testing in safety-sensitive roles.
Can an employer in Virginia drug test me?
Virginia restricts adverse employment action based solely on off-duty cannabis use, but employers can still test and act for safety-sensitive positions or when impairment is shown. A medical card does not provide blanket protection from testing.
Does a medical card protect me from testing in Virginia?
Virginia law protects employees from adverse action based solely on lawful off-duty cannabis use, but employers may still restrict use in safety-sensitive roles and enforce workplace policies.