Is Hydrocodone Legal in Massachusetts? (2026)
It depends. In Massachusetts, hydrocodone is restricted. Hydrocodone is a Schedule II controlled substance under federal law. Legal with a valid prescription. Many states have prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) that track dispensing. Keep in original container.. A permit or license is required.
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit type
- prescription
- Jurisdiction
- Massachusetts
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Hydrocodone laws in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, hydrocodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Massachusetts Controlled Substances Act, M.G.L. c. 94C, § 31. This classification reflects its high potential for abuse but also its accepted medical use in treatment. Consequently, possession, distribution, and dispensing of hydrocodone are strictly regulated and require a valid prescription issued by a licensed practitioner. The Massachusetts Prescription Awareness and Treatment (MAPS) program, a statewide prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP), tracks the dispensing of Schedule II substances like hydrocodone to prevent diversion and abuse. M.G.L. c. 94C, § 25B mandates the reporting of Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions to MAPS. Violations of controlled substance laws in Massachusetts, including those related to hydrocodone, can carry significant penalties. Depending on the offense (e.g., possession, trafficking, unlawful distribution), penalties can range from significant fines and mandatory drug education programs to lengthy state prison sentences. Trafficking in or manufacturing Schedule II controlled substances often results in felony charges. M.G.L. c. 94C, § 32 outlines the penalties for various controlled substance offenses, with penalties escalating based on the quantity of the drug involved and the intent of the violator. For instance, unlawful possession of a controlled substance can result in a state prison sentence of up to two and a half years and a fine of up to $5,000. Trafficking offenses carry much more severe penalties, including potential life imprisonment. There are limited exceptions to the strict regulations governing hydrocodone. A primary exception is for individuals possessing hydrocodone pursuant to a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. It is crucial for individuals in possession of hydrocodone to ensure it remains in its original pharmacy container, clearly labeled with the patient's name, the medication, dosage, and the prescribing physician's information. This aids in identification and compliance with prescription requirements. Furthermore, Massachusetts law generally prohibits refills for Schedule II controlled substances, meaning a new prescription is required for each dispensing. Travelers entering or residing in Massachusetts with a valid prescription from out-of-state may be subject to specific reporting requirements or limitations depending on the duration of their stay and the quantity of medication. Maintaining legal possession generally requires the medication to be prescribed and dispensed in accordance with both federal and Massachusetts state laws.
Frequently asked questions
Is hydrocodone legal in Massachusetts for travelers?
For travelers visiting Massachusetts, hydrocodone is currently restricted. In Massachusetts, hydrocodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Massachusetts Controlled Substances Act, M.G.L. c. 94C, § 31. This classification reflects its high potential for abuse but also its accepted medical use in treatment. Consequently, possession, distribution, and dispensing of hydrocodone are strictly regulated and require a valid prescription issued by a licensed practitioner. The Massachusetts Prescription Awareness and Treatment (MAPS) program, a statewide prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP), tracks the dispensing of Schedule II substances like hydrocodone to prevent diversion and abuse. M.G.L. c. 94C, § 25B mandates the reporting of Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions to MAPS. Violations of controlled substance laws in Massachusetts, including those related to hydrocodone, can carry significant penalties. Depending on the offense (e.g., possession, trafficking, unlawful distribution), penalties can range from significant fines and mandatory drug education programs to lengthy state prison sentences. Trafficking in or manufacturing Schedule II controlled substances often results in felony charges. M.G.L. c. 94C, § 32 outlines the penalties for various controlled substance offenses, with penalties escalating based on the quantity of the drug involved and the intent of the violator. For instance, unlawful possession of a controlled substance can result in a state prison sentence of up to two and a half years and a fine of up to $5,000. Trafficking offenses carry much more severe penalties, including potential life imprisonment. There are limited exceptions to the strict regulations governing hydrocodone. A primary exception is for individuals possessing hydrocodone pursuant to a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. It is crucial for individuals in possession of hydrocodone to ensure it remains in its original pharmacy container, clearly labeled with the patient's name, the medication, dosage, and the prescribing physician's information. This aids in identification and compliance with prescription requirements. Furthermore, Massachusetts law generally prohibits refills for Schedule II controlled substances, meaning a new prescription is required for each dispensing. Travelers entering or residing in Massachusetts with a valid prescription from out-of-state may be subject to specific reporting requirements or limitations depending on the duration of their stay and the quantity of medication. Maintaining legal possession generally requires the medication to be prescribed and dispensed in accordance with both federal and Massachusetts state laws.
Do I need a permit for hydrocodone in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts requires a permit or license for hydrocodone. Permit type: prescription. Contact the relevant state agency for application details.
Can I transport hydrocodone through Massachusetts?
Transport laws for hydrocodone in Massachusetts depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for hydrocodone violations in Massachusetts?
Penalties for hydrocodone violations in Massachusetts vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.