Transporting cannabis in the U.S. is not just about moving product from point A to point B—it’s about navigating a complex web of licensing, compliance, and security regulations. Operators looking to enter the marijuana transport space must understand the licensing structure in their respective states, maintain rigorous documentation, and stay up to date with evolving policies that could impact their legal responsibilities.

Licensing Basics and State Variations

A cannabis transport license is required to legally move marijuana between licensed facilities—such as cultivators, processors, laboratories, and dispensaries. Some states integrate this into broader licenses, while others require a stand-alone “transporter” or “distributor” license. As of early 2025, at least sixteen states plus Puerto Rico mandate a separate transport license, each with distinct rules around allowed movements, storage, and operational constraints.

Operators must first determine if their type of business allows third-party transport or only in-house movement. For instance, California differentiates between Type 11 (can deliver to retailers and store) and Type 13 (facility-to-facility only) licenses. Conversely, in Colorado, licenses are separated by product type—recreational vs. medical—with restrictions on temporary storage (limited to seven days).

Operator Eligibility and Application

Applications typically require applicants to:

• Demonstrate business formation (LLC or corporation) and secure a federal Tax ID (EIN).
• Provide detailed security protocols and schedules.
• Pay high fees. For example, Nevada’s Distributor license starts at $15,000, with a $5,000 renewal.
• Complete suitability/background checks and pass agent permit requirements.

Security, Vehicles, and Tracking

Strict security compliance is non-negotiable. A licensed transporter must:

• Use unmarked vehicles with secure locked compartments.
• Employ a two-person crew—to ensure one driver stays with the vehicle at all times during transit.
• Upload planned routes to the state’s track-and-trace system and carry printed manifests on board.
• Use GPS to monitor vehicles in real time.

In California, transporters must register commercial vehicles with the Federal DOT and obtain a Motor Carrier Permit—even though cannabis is federally illegal. Operators must carefully structure vehicle ownership or company filings to avoid explicitly reporting cannabis transport to federal regulators.

Federal Considerations and Safety-Sensitive Roles

Despite state legalization, cannabis remains federally illegal and labeled a Schedule I drug. Safety-sensitive workers—such as CDL drivers—are prohibited from cannabis use or possession on duty, and cannot have positive tests verified for state-authorized marijuana use. Transporters generally need employees who meet CDL requirements, medical certifications, and pass regular DOT drug testing.

Liability and Insurance

Transporting cannabis triggers heightened legal and financial risks:

• Operators must verify licensing that allows third-party transport, or retain liability for unauthorized movement.
• Comprehensive cargo insurance is essential—covering product, cash, and potential accidents.
• In some jurisdictions, a licensed transporter may not store product overnight or only for very limited periods—violations can result in penalties, fines, or license revocation.

Best Practices and Compliance Culture

To maintain regulatory good standing, companies should:

• Regularly audit vehicles, crew manifests, and GPS logs.
• Train all agents in chain-of-custody protocols, emergency procedures, and compliance with state track-and-trace mandates.
• Maintain open communication with regulators and adjust routes or storage based on approvals.
• Engage legal counsel familiar with cannabis transport to help navigate federal-state compliance tensions.