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Pennsylvania: How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in PA

Nov 2 / Jenifer Marks, Esq.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania (PA)

Pennsylvania residents with qualifying medical conditions can legally access medical marijuana through the state's medical marijuana program. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the eligibility requirements, registration process, and how to use your card at PA dispensaries.

If you are interested in learning more about how medical cannabis can help your body, signup for our FREE Medical Cannabis Class.

Who Qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania?

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Pennsylvania, you must:

  • Be a Pennsylvania resident with a valid PA ID or driver’s license.
  • Have a serious medical condition certified by an approved physician.
Approved Conditions Include:
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Cancer (including remission therapy)
  • Epilepsy
  • Chronic pain
  • PTSD
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Severe chronic or intractable pain
  • Terminal illness
  • And more…


For a complete list of qualifying conditions, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

If you're interested in learning how specific cannabis strains, cannabinoids, and terpenes can help alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions, enroll in our FREE Medical Cannabis Class.

Steps to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania

Here’s a straightforward process to obtain your medical marijuana card in PA.

 Step 1: Register on the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Registry

• Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s and register.
• Provide your current PA driver’s license or state ID with your up-to-date address.
• Use an active email address for registration and to receive updates.

Tip: Double-check that all information matches your ID exactly to avoid delay.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with an Approved Physician

  • Find an approved physician using the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s list found here.
  • Schedule an appointment to discuss your medical condition.
  • The physician will determine if you meet the requirements and, if eligible, will add your certification to the Medical Marijuana Registry.


Note: Only approved physicians can provide the required certification, confirming that you have an eligible medical condition.

Step 3: Pay for Your Medical Marijuana ID Card

Once you’re certified, log back into the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Registry to complete your application and pay the fee.

  • The standard fee is $50 for the ID card.
  • If you are enrolled in assistance programs such as Medicaid or CHIP, you may qualify for a reduced or waived fee.

Step 4: Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card

After payment, your medical marijuana ID card will be mailed to you:

  • Processing time: Allow up to 7 days for processing and up to 14 days for mailing.
  • With your card, you can legally access medical marijuana at any licensed dispensary in Pennsylvania.

Important: Always carry your card with you when purchasing medical marijuana products.

 Information for Caregivers in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, caregivers can assist patients in obtaining medical marijuana. Here’s what caregivers need to know:

  • Eligibility: Caregivers must be Pennsylvania residents aged 21 or older and pass a background check.
  • Registration: Register through the Medical Marijuana Registry and connect with the patient.
  • Caregiver Role: Caregivers can pick up and deliver medical marijuana products from dispensaries to their designated patients.

Patients may have up to two designated caregivers, and caregivers may assist multiple patients.

How to Use Your Medical Marijuana Card at Pennsylvania Dispensaries

Once you receive your card, you can use it at any licensed dispensary in Pennsylvania. Dispensaries offer various products, including:

  • Oils and tinctures
  • Capsules and pills
  • Topicals
  • Dry leaf for vaporization


Tip: Some dispensaries may require an appointment for your first visit, so check ahead to ensure a smooth experience. Our free medical cannabis class also covers product types, strains, and how specific cannabinoids and terpenes can benefit various medical conditions.

Renewing Your Medical Marijuana Card in PA

Medical marijuana cards in Pennsylvania must be renewed every year:

  • Revisit your approved physician for a new certification.
  • Log in to the registry to confirm renewal and pay the renewal fee.

Tip: Start the renewal process early to avoid any interruptions in access.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania

Getting a medical marijuana card in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process designed to help residents access medical marijuana safely and legally. By following these steps, eligible patients can obtain relief through Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program.

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