Illinois Medical Marijuana Laws & Information
The Medical Cannabis Registry Program, established in August 2013, is an Illinois program that helps patients gain access to medical cannabis—as long as they qualify based on their medical conditions. The Illinois Department of Public Health manages the registry, reviews applications, and issues medical registry cards to Illinois patients.
Become a Medical Cannabis Patient in Illinois
While recreational marijuana in Illinois is legal, many patients choose to carry a medical cannabis card for the treatment of qualifying medical conditions they experience. In most cases, the process to get a medical marijuana card involves a few steps, including certification by a healthcare professional and approval by the state.
Qualifications for Illinois Medical Cannabis
To qualify for medical marijuana in Illinois, you must have one of the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act’s established debilitating conditions. As the program grows and changes, it’s possible additional conditions could be added to the list. If you want Illinois to recognize a condition that isn’t on the list, you can fill out their Petition to Add Debilitating Conditions form and submit it to the Department of Public Health.
Get a Medical Cannabis Card in Illinois
Once you’ve established that you have one of the listed conditions, you’ll need a health care professional’s certificate. For a breakdown of the steps you’ll need to take to apply for your Illinois medical marijuana card, check out our Get a Card guide.
Illinois Medical Marijuana Purchase & Possession Limits
Medical cannabis patients in Illinois can purchase up to 2.5oz (70.87g) of cannabis products every 14 days.
When it comes to cannabis possession in Illinois, the rules are the same for medical marijuana patients and recreational shoppers:
- Up to 30 grams of cannabis flower
- Up to 5 grams of cannabis concentrate
- Up to 500 mg of THC in cannabis-infused products, including edibles
Please note that there are different possession limits for out-of-state residents. However, Illinois does not recognize medical marijuana cards issued by other states, so non-resident limits do not apply here.
What is the Tax on Medical Marijuana in Illinois?
Illinois charges a 1% sales tax on all medical marijuana purchases.
Where Can I Use Medical Marijuana in Illinois?
Cannabis consumption laws in Illinois are the same for medical marijuana patients and recreational shoppers. Products may only be used on private property, including your home, backyard, or any other privately owned area that is out of view of the public.
Marijuana is not permitted in the following scenarios:
- Public or federal land
- Any motor vehicle
- Around a minor
- Traveling across state lines
Businesses, landlords, and certain municipalities may have additional rules regarding possession of cannabis. You should always check the rules for your location before consuming marijuana.
Become a Medical Cannabis Caregiver
In Illinois, certain people can qualify as a cannabis caregiver. This person is designated by the patient to purchase, grow, and dispense medical marijuana to the patient. A patient can have a caregiver for a variety of reasons, including being a minor or unable to travel to a dispensary. The Department of Health has a variety of resources available if you want to become a caregiver.
Medical Cannabis for Veterans
Veterans who are under the care of the VA are not required to obtain a written certification for medical cannabis from a healthcare provider. Instead, they must provide 12 months of medical history from the VA facility. If a veteran isn’t receiving care from the VA, they will need to go through the same certification process as other medical patients.
Medical Cannabis for Minors
Illinois allows medical cannabis for minors who qualify, although guidelines are more strict for these patients. In addition to several practitioner certifications, minors must have a certified caregiver who is also registered with the state.
Medical Cannabis for Terminal Illness
Patients who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and have a 6-month life expectancy can apply for an expedited medical cannabis card.
Purchasing Medical Marijuana in Illinois
Medical marijuana consumption, with the care of their qualified healthcare provider, is an important way some people manage their debilitating conditions. If you have questions, don’t be afraid to speak to one of our budtenders. They’re available to help you get the answers and products you need.