How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida
Florida's medical marijuana program is available for residents with qualifying health conditions. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card, along with a few tips on ensuring a smooth application experience. If you are interested in learning about how medical cannabis helps the body, take this FREE Medical Cannabis Class.
Step 1 - Check If You Qualify
To be eligible, you must:
For a complete list, refer to the Florida Department of Health website.
- Be a Florida resident (seasonal residents may qualify with additional documentation).
- Have a qualifying medical condition certified by a state-approved physician. Conditions include cancer, epilepsy, PTSD, chronic pain, and other serious ailments.
For a complete list, refer to the Florida Department of Health website.
Step 2 - Visit a Qualified Physician
You must see a state-approved doctor who will:
- Evaluate your condition and determine if medical marijuana is an appropriate treatment.
- Add you to the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry upon approval.
You can find a list of qualified physicians on Florida’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use website.
Step 3 - Register with the Medical Marijuana Use Registry
Once your physician has entered your details into the registry, you will receive an email with your login credentials. Use these to complete your registration online, where you'll:
- Upload a passport-style photo (if not automatically provided from the DMV database).
- Submit proof of residency if not linked to the DMV.
- Pay a $75 processing fee online or by mail.
Step 4 - Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card
After submitting your application, allow up to 10 business days for online applications or slightly longer for mail-in submissions. Once approved, you’ll receive your card by mail. You’ll need to renew your card annually, and renewals can be submitted up to 45 days before expiration.
Step 5 - Purchase Medical Marijuana at Licensed Dispensaries
With your card in hand, you can buy medical marijuana products at licensed dispensaries in Florida. Options include oils, capsules, vaporizers, and more. Be sure to contact dispensaries in advance as some may require appointments. If you want to learn about products you can find in a medical cannabis dispensary, take our FREE Medical Cannabis Class.
Who Qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida?
Qualifying conditions include:
Check the full list on the Florida Department of Health, and consult a physician if you believe your condition qualifies.
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Chronic pain
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis, and more
Check the full list on the Florida Department of Health, and consult a physician if you believe your condition qualifies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Double-check residency details: Ensure your ID information matches the registry details exactly.
- Prepare for out-of-pocket costs: Doctor evaluations for certification may not be covered by insurance.
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