US State-by-State THC-Free CBD Laws
Hemp-derived, THC-free CBD is widely available in the United States, but the specifics of what’s allowed can vary by state. This page gives a practical, state-by-state orientation focused on THC-free products, plus tips for reading Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and avoiding compliance pitfalls.
We do not duplicate deep legal analysis here. For broader context on federal and international rules, see our Legality resources linked below. Always verify the latest regulations from your state and local authorities before buying, selling, or shipping products.
Note: “THC-free” typically means non-detectable THC at the lab’s limit of quantitation (LOQ) on a current COA. This is different from “0.3% THC” (federally compliant hemp). If you are subject to drug testing, choosing truly THC-free products and reviewing COAs is especially important.
What “THC-free” means in practice
Related: how-to-read-thc-free-cbd-coa-lab-reports.
- THC-free on labels should be backed by a recent, batch-specific COA showing THC as “ND” (non-detect) or below the lab’s LOQ.
- Common THC-free formats: CBD isolate and many broad-spectrum products. Full-spectrum products usually contain trace THC and may not be suitable if you must avoid THC entirely.
- Some states are stricter about any detectable THC (see Idaho and Kansas below).
How to use this guide
This page groups states by general approach to hemp-derived, THC-free CBD sold to consumers. It is not exhaustive legal advice. Within each group, individual rules differ (registration, age-gating, labeling, testing, and restrictions on foods or inhalables). Check current state rules before purchasing or operating a business.
State-by-state quick status (THC-free CBD)
Strict: THC-free only (0.0% THC required)
- Idaho
- Kansas
In these states, consumer CBD products generally must contain 0.0% THC. Review COAs closely and avoid products with any detectable THC.
Permissive with notable extra rules (examples include age limits, product registration, serving limits, or restrictions on inhalables/foods)
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Minnesota
- New York
- Oregon
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
Expect additional compliance steps such as brand or product registration, specific label/packaging rules, age 21 for certain formats, or limits on specific cannabinoids.
Generally permissive (standard hemp-CBD frameworks; always verify details)
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Vermont
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Most of these states allow retail sale of hemp-derived CBD, including THC-free products, with standard testing, labeling, and age rules. Some may limit certain formats (for example, inhalables or food/beverages) or require retailer/product registration.
Common state-level restrictions you may encounter
- Age gating: 18+ or 21+ for certain products (often inhalables or vapes).
- Retailer or product registration: Some states require brand, product, or retailer approvals.
- Labeling and testing: COA QR codes, batch numbers, cannabinoid profiles, and contaminants testing are common.
- Food and beverage rules: Some states allow CBD in foods; others limit or prohibit it. Requirements are evolving.
- Inhalable/smokable restrictions: Manufacturing or retail sales may be restricted or taxed differently.
- Intoxicating cannabinoids: Many states restrict or ban delta-8, THC-O, THCP, or “total THC” above set thresholds, even if hemp-derived.
Reading COAs for THC-free verification
- Check cannabinoid results: Delta-9 THC and “Total THC” should be ND or below LOQ. Labs list LOQ/LOD; ND means the analyte is below that threshold.
- Confirm batch match: The lot/batch number on the product should match the COA.
- Review date and lab: Prefer ISO-accredited labs and recent reports (often within 12 months, or as your state specifies).
- Scan for contaminants: Look for passes on pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbials where applicable.
Traveling, shipping, and online orders
- Domestic travel: Hemp-derived, THC-free CBD is generally allowed, but keep products in original packaging with COAs. Laws differ by state and locality.
- State lines: Carriers and destination states may have extra restrictions on certain formats (like vapes). Verify before shipping.
- Workplaces and testing: Even with THC-free products, testing policies vary. Consider using products with ND THC and documented controls.
Where to learn more (broader overviews)
- Legality (cluster hub)
- USA State Laws (Overview)
- FDA Policy on CBD
- Labeling & Claims Compliance
- EU Laws (Overview)
- EU Laws by Country
FAQ
Is THC-free CBD legal in all 50 states?
Federally, hemp-derived CBD is lawful if sourced from compliant hemp. However, states set their own retail rules. THC-free products are widely permitted, but a few states (like Idaho and Kansas) require 0.0% THC, and many others add conditions on formats, labeling, or age limits.
What does “0.0% THC” mean on a label?
It typically means the product’s lab results show non-detect (ND) THC at the lab’s LOQ. Always check the COA rather than relying only on packaging.
Will THC-free CBD show up on a drug test?
Risk is lower with true ND-THC products, but no product can guarantee zero risk. Choose products with COAs showing ND THC and discuss policies with your employer.
Can I add CBD to foods everywhere?
Not everywhere. States differ on CBD-infused foods and beverages. Check your state’s current rules before selling or bringing CBD foods across state lines.
How do I confirm a product is compliant in my state?
Review your state’s agriculture or health department guidance, confirm age/format limits, ensure the product’s COA meets state testing/label rules, and verify any registration requirements.
Disclaimer
This page is informational only and not legal, medical, or compliance advice. Laws and policies change frequently; consult current state guidance and qualified counsel when needed.
Shop THC-free
Looking for verified THC-free options? Explore third-party tested products at https://www.cannagea.com/thc-free
Summary
THC-free CBD is widely accessible in the U.S., but details vary by state. Idaho and Kansas require 0.0% THC, while many states impose extra rules on labeling, testing, age gating, and certain formats. Always rely on up-to-date COAs, verify local requirements, and review our broader Legality resources for the big-picture context.