Short answer
You can fly with hemp-derived CBD oil in a carry-on bag or a checked bag. TSA has no rule that names CBD oil. The standard liquid rules apply to the carry-on. A container of 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less goes in the carry-on. Checked bags have no volume limit on liquids. Hemp CBD with 0.3 percent THC or less is legal under federal law. TSA officers look for threats to aircraft, not for drugs. If an officer finds a substance that looks like an illegal drug, TSA refers the case to a law enforcement officer at the airport.
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What TSA says
TSA runs the checkpoint. TSA states on its site that its officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs. Screeners look for weapons, explosives, and other threats. TSA has no published regulation that names CBD oil. The agency points passengers to the 2018 Farm Bill hemp rule and to the airline for questions about a specific product.
TSA Cannabis Travel Restrictions in the US
Carry-on liquid limits
- 3.4 ounces (100 mL) per container.
- Containers fit in one clear quart-size bag.
- One bag per passenger.
- Bottles larger than 3.4 ounces go in a checked bag or get left at the checkpoint.
A common CBD tincture bottle holds 30 mL, or 1 ounce. A 100 mL bottle sits at the limit. A 250 mL bottle exceeds it and must go in a checked bag.
Medical liquid exemption
Passengers with a medical need can bring more than 3.4 ounces. Tell the officer at the start of screening. The liquid goes through extra screening. Ice packs and freezer packs that keep the liquid cold are allowed in the same bag.
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Federal law
The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act definition of marijuana. Hemp means cannabis with 0.3 percent THC or less on a dry weight basis. CBD from hemp falls in that group. CBD from cannabis with more THC stays a Schedule I substance. Air travel sits under federal jurisdiction. The federal rule applies at the checkpoint and on the plane.
State law and airports
States set their own rules. Some states allow adult-use cannabis. Some allow medical use only. Some ban CBD with any THC. Airport property can follow the state rule or a stricter local rule. A product that is legal at home can be illegal at the arrival airport.
International flights
TSA rules cover the checkpoint, not the destination country. Customs officers in the arriving country apply their own law. Japan, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates ban CBD products. On return to the United States, CBP officers can inspect bags and refer cases to law enforcement.
Steps at the checkpoint
- Pack CBD oil in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less for the carry-on.
- Place the container in a clear quart bag with your other liquids.
- Put the bag in a bin at the checkpoint.
- Declare any medical liquid above 3.4 ounces to the officer.
- Keep the product in its original packaging with the THC content printed on the label.
What is not known
TSA does not publish a count of CBD seizures or referrals. Officers do not test liquids for THC at the checkpoint. Airline rules can be stricter than TSA rules. Some airlines ban cannabis in checked bags. Check with your airline before the flight.