Can You Be Charged for Prescription Drugs at the Airport in Virginia?

 Posted on December 07, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you have a prescription medication, it makes sense that you would bring it with you when you travel. You may even need to carry extra. However, how you carry them is very important. Carrying your meds improperly can cause legal problems at airport security. In Virginia, airport drug investigations can involve both state and federal law. An experienced Fairfax, VA drug crimes defense lawyer can explain your rights and what to do if you are questioned or charged.

Can You Be Arrested for Carrying Prescription Pills Without the Label?

Carrying prescription medicine in the original labeled container is the safest option. Without it, police may suspect the medication is not legally yours, especially if it is a controlled substance. The government sets strict rules on how these drugs are made and used because they can be misused if not handled correctly.

If you carry your pills in an unmarked container or without proof of a valid prescription, airport police may think you have them illegally. According to Virginia Code § 18.2-250, having a controlled substance without a prescription can be a crime. Even if the medication belongs to you, carrying it outside the original container can cause confusion. The safest approach is to keep it in the pharmacy bottle with your name, dosage, and drug information, and bring a copy of your prescription or a note from your doctor if possible.

What If TSA or Airport Police Think the Prescription Is Not Yours?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checks luggage for anything that is not allowed on a plane. TSA officers cannot arrest you, but they can call airport police if they find pills or other drugs. If an officer suspects that a medication does not belong to you, they may ask questions or hold you until law enforcement arrives.

Police may check with your pharmacy or doctor to confirm your prescription. Even if you are carrying it for a friend or family member, the law still treats it as unauthorized possession. Keeping proof that the prescription belongs to you can prevent a small issue from turning into a serious situation.

Are Airport Drug Charges Federal or State Offenses in Virginia?

Some airports, like Washington Dulles International and Reagan National, are on federal property. This means that a drug case could fall under federal law. Other airports may be handled by local police and the Virginia state courts. Both systems have their own rules.

The federal Controlled Substances Act and § 18.2-250 both set rules about how certain prescription drugs can be possessed and used. Federal cases often carry higher penalties, especially if travel across state lines is involved. State cases usually depend on the type and amount of medication and the specific details of the situation. Because both systems may apply, it helps to have an attorney who understands how to handle cases in both state and federal court.

What Prescription Drugs Commonly Lead to Airport Arrests?

Some prescription drugs draw more attention from law enforcement than others because they are known to be misused. Examples include:

• Opioid pain medications such as Oxycodone or Hydrocodone

• Stimulants used for ADHD, such as Adderall or Ritalin

• Anti-anxiety medications like Xanax or Valium

• Sleep aids such as Ambien

These drugs are listed under different "schedules" in federal law. The schedule depends on how strong the drug is and how likely it is to be misused. If you are facing prescription-related charges, speak to an attorney immediately to start building your defense strategy.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Fairfax, VA Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

At Robinson Law, PLLC, our knowledgeable Fairfax, VA drug crimes defense lawyer can explain your rights and help you protect your record. With more than 50 years of legal experience, our firm has helped many clients facing drug-related charges. We understand how confusing these cases can be and how quickly a misunderstanding can lead to criminal charges.

Call 703-844-3746 today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help. Our phone lines are open 24/7. Hablamos Español.