Getting a marijuana card can be as cumbersome as any other government procedure. State regulations pertaining to medical cannabis usage can vary. If your state recommends it for treating the symptoms of illnesses like:
- Glaucoma
- AIDS
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy
- Anorexia
- Chronic pain
If you are clear about the application process, you can easily get a medical card for purchasing marijuana. The eight-step guide we are sharing below can be quite helpful in this regard.
Step 1: Find out your State Regulations
In the United States, around 30 states legalize cannabis use if you qualify for the condition. Out of them, only 10 allow its recreational use. Marijuana card regulations differ from state to state. Always get yourself familiarized with the cannabis law in your state. You need to get ample knowledge regarding stuff like:
- Eligibility criteria
- Age restrictions
- Residency requirements (if any)
If the government allows you to use marijuana for therapeutic purposes, only then proceed further.
Step 2: Consult your Physician
The habit-forming nature of cannabis necessitates seeking medical advice before starting to consume it. Once you are fully in state laws pertaining to cannabis use, you can consult a licensed cannabis doctor for a check-up. The doctor will completely analyze your:
- Medical history
- Disease symptoms
- Overall health status
Based on your condition, your physician will let you know whether weed is a safe treatment option for you.
Step 3: Get a Signed Document from your Physician
After the medical examination, if your physician summarizes that you qualify for the treatment, they will issue you a signed recommendation. This certificate or recommendation is a formal endorsement stating that your doctor believes you will benefit from the treatment.
You have to show this certification as proof to the state government to qualify for a medical marijuana card. You cannot proceed further without this certification.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once you have the medical certification, you can now apply for a marijuana card. Follow these steps to apply:
- Go to the online portal and click on the appropriate options, such as:
- Apply for a new card, or
- Card renewal
- Select the type of card you are applying for. There are two types of applications:
- Adult application
- Minor application
Choose the option “a” if you are applying for an adult (≥ 18 years of age). Select option “b” if you are the parent or the guardian of a minor who needs to undertake marijuana therapy. Filling an application for a minor might include some additional steps.
- Now, click the “Next” button on the form and proceed to fill in the cardholder’s information.
- Following this, fill out the form asking for the applicant’s personal information. It might include:
-
- First name
- Last name
- Email address
- Social security number
- Phone number
Then, move to the “Address Information” screen and type your exact address. The website will also ask whether you have a different mailing and physical address.
- The next screen that pops up will ask for “Designated Purchasers.” As a cardholder, you can designate up to 2 individuals, essentially 21 years or above, to acquire and deliver the card to you.
- Once you have completed the designated purchaser’s screen, move on to “Physician Information.” On this page, fill out all the required fields.
- Move to the “Debilitating Questions” and answer the questions mentioned on the page.
- Click “Next” to move to the “Cultivation Questions” page. It will ask two questions:
-
- Do you cultivate marijuana on your own?
- If yes, mention the location where you cultivate it.
Answer the questions with a “Yes” or a “No.” If you don’t own the place, ask the property owner to fill this out.
- Now, the next screen shows “Diversion Statement.” You have to agree to this statement.
- Attach the following documents:
-
- Applicant photograph
- Physician statement
- Residency documentation
Step 5: Submit the Application Fee
Each state charges a fee for processing your application, which can vary. Before finally submitting the marijuana card application, check the exact amount of fee you have to pay and finalize the payment method.
You must pay the full application fee before your application is reviewed. This fee is non-refundable.
Step 6: Wait till your Application gets Approved
After applying, patiently wait and let the health department review your application. The state government will evaluate the attached documents deeply. This step takes time as the authorities have to ensure whether you are genuinely eligible for a marijuana card.
The time required for verifying and dispatching the card to the applicant can vary from a few days to several weeks. For instance, the California state government takes 35 working days to process the application. Similarly, in Arkansas, the applicant has to wait for 2-3 weeks to get the card.
Step 7: Receive your Medical Marijuana Card
The state government will send your medical card digitally or via mail. Once you receive this card, you can purchase marijuana or cannabis from any licensed dispensary in:
- Your state
- In a state that accepts out-of-state cards
You just have to show your ID and medical card to the dispensary.
Step 8: Familiarize yourself with the Renewal Procedure
Medical cannabis cards have an expiry date. Conventionally, the cards are valid for seven months to one year. The cardholder should remember the expiry date. As soon as the validation date is over, they should consult the physician and then apply for card renewal. The renewal process is similar to the process followed for getting a new card.
Conclusion
Do you want to apply for a new marijuana card or renew your old card? Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for your cannabis card. Consult your physician and ask them for a signed drug recommendation. Send this certificate along with the application to your state government. Submit the application processing fee and wait till you receive the card. Once you have the card, purchase the suggested dosage from a licensed dispensary.
Related Posts
