How to Get a Medical Marijuanas Card in Maryland  

Maryland’s medical marijuanas program has been operational since 2017. In order to purchase medical cannabis, you will need to obtain a medical marijuanas card in the state. The state of Maryland has a clear set of steps that must be taken to become a certified medical marijuanas patient and shop at a medical dispensary. Take a look below at how to get a medical marijuanas card in MD.

The medical marijuana program in Maryland is overseen by the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA). Take a look at the steps required to obtain an MD medical marijuanas card.

1. Make Sure You Have a Qualifying Medical Condition

The state of Maryland has a relatively broad definition of a “qualifying condition” when it comes to becoming a medical cannabis patient. The MCA states that a patient must have a debilitating disease, chronic disease, or condition that causes certain outcomes, such as:

• Waiting syndrome
• Chronic pain
• Severe nausea
• PTSD
• Persistent muscle spasms
• Cachexia
• Seizures
• Glaucoma
• Anorexia

The way MD has outlined qualifying conditions makes it possible for many people to become medical marijuanas patients. For example, any medical condition that generates persistent nausea could potentially allow you to be certified as a patient, whether that condition is something like cancer or digestive disease.

The MCA also states that medical conditions may be good enough for qualification if the specific condition is severe and standard treatments have not been effective.

2. Register as a Medical Marijuanas Patient with the MMCC

Once you are certain that you have a qualifying condition, you will need to access the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) registry website. Under the heading for patients, you will be prompted to create an account. Once your account is created, you can then fill out your online application. During the MMCC application process, you will need:

• A valid email account
• Your social security number
• A valid government-issued photo ID
• Proof of residency in the state of MD
• Proof of your residential address

A digital, passport-worthy photo will also be required. This picture should have a white background, a clear view of the face, color, a neutral expression, and no hats, head coverings, or dark sunglasses.

The fee for the application is $25, which must be paid when you submit your application. After you submit your application to the MMCC, the MMCC will review your application and documents. You will get an email to notify you of their decision. If your application is approved, you will receive a new username and guidance to log in to the OneStop patient portal. You will also be assigned a new MMCC Patient Number. This number will be necessary to continue with your physician certification.

3. Visit a Physician to Obtain Your Certification

After you have registered and obtained your MMCC Patient Number, schedule a visit to a qualified physician. This physician must provide a “bona fide provider-patient relationship.” This essentially means that the relationship between you and the provider must involve reviewing your medical records, undergoing a physical exam, maintaining medical records, and monitoring you as a medical marijuanas patient.

The doctor will provide a written certification, and you can then print your temporary medical marijuanas patient card. This card and your patient ID can be used to shop at a licensed medical cannabis dispensary.

Obtaining an MD Medical Marijuanas Card – Other FAQs

How old do you have to be to get a medical marijuanas card in MD?

Adults 18 years of age and older can move through the certification and application process on their own. However, caregivers over the age of 21 that have minor patients that need medical cannabis can also apply on behalf of their child.

How long does it take to get a medical marijuanas card in MD?

It can take up to 30 days for the MMCC to review your initial application and send you a patient ID number to take to your physician. Once the physician issues you a written certification, you can shop for medical marijuanas.

How long does an MD medical marijuanas card last?

Maryland recently extended the registration duration. Your registration as a medical marijuanas patient will now expire after six years.

Get Help with Your MD Medical Marijuanas Card

While obtaining your MD medical marijuanas card can be a little confusing, the professionals at Compassionate Care Consultants are here to help. Find out more about how to get your Maryland medical marijuana card in three simple steps.