Maryland Medical Marijuana Card: Everything You Need To Know
Step-by-Step Guide to Joining the Maryland Medical Cannabis Program
Maryland passed House Bill 881 in 2014, which launched the state’s medical cannabis program, as well as the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). The MMCC is responsible for all the policies and procedures that patients, providers, dispensaries, growers, caregivers, processors, and testing laboratories have to follow when it comes to medical cannabis. As the laws around the Maryland medical marijuana program continue to evolve, the MMCC remains the primary source for rules, regulations, and additional information.
Maryland Medical Marijuana Card Qualifications
Before you begin the medical cannabis application process in Maryland, make sure you meet the following requirements:
- At least 18 years old OR a minor with an adult caregiver
- A legal resident of Maryland with proof of residency
- Suffer from one of the qualifying medical conditions
How to Apply for a Maryland Medical Marijuana Card [5 Steps]
If you meet the above requirements, you’re ready to begin the application process. Follow these steps to become part of the state’s medical marijuana registry.
Step 1: Get Your Medical Marijuana Patient Certificate
The first step in the medical cannabis application process in Maryland is to create a profile in the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission Registry. You’ll need to have the following pieces of identification:
- An electronic copy of a valid, government-issued ID with your current address*
- Social Security Number
- A passport-style photo taken within the last 30 days by a smartphone or a professional photographer
- A credit card to pay the $25 application fee
*If the address on your identification does not match your current address, you will need to submit additional proof of Maryland residency. You can find the list of acceptable documents on the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission website.
Once you submit your online application, you will receive a verification email to the email address you provided on your application. You must click the verification link in the message to verify your email account. If this is not complete, your application will not be reviewed by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission.
Step 2: Receive Medical Marijuana Application Approval
The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission will review your application and send you an email to let you know whether your application has been approved or denied. Make sure to save this email for your records and future reference as it contains your username and patient ID number.
Step 3: Visit a Medical Cannabis Physician in Maryland
Bring your patient ID number to a provider who is registered with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission to obtain certification that you suffer from one of the serious medical conditions that qualify for medical cannabis use.
If you qualify, the healthcare professional will provide you with written certification, as well as upload your certification to your account using your patient ID number.
Step 4: Print Your Maryland Medical Marijuana Card
Once your healthcare provider uploads your certification, you will be able to print and use your medical cannabis card. You must make a dispensary purchase within 120 days of receiving your certification or it will expire.
Step 5: Your First Maryland Dispensary Visit
As soon as you have your medical cannabis card, you can visit any state-licensed dispensary in Maryland.
How to Renew Your Maryland Medical Marijuana Card
The Maryland medical cannabis program requires patients to renew their registration every six years. To renew, login to your online portal and access the renewal form.
Maryland Medical Marijuana Purchase & Possession Limits
Medical marijuana patients in Maryland (or their designated caregiver) may purchase and possess up to a 30-day supply of marijuana products. The standard amount is:
- 120 grams of dry flower OR
- 36 grams of THC product
Available purchase limits are calculated on a rolling 30-day cycle, not a calendar month. Please note that a medical provider can recommend larger amounts of cannabis products, which will be noted with the MMCC.
FAQs About Medical Cannabis in Maryland
While medical marijuana isn’t new to Maryland, we still get a variety of questions about the program. To simplify the process, we’ve provided a few questions and answers here.
What conditions qualify for a medical marijuana card in Maryland?
Patients who suffer from conditions like cachexia, chronic pain, or seizures may qualify for medical marijuana in Maryland. Visit the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission website for a complete list of qualifying conditions.
How long will it take to receive my medical marijuana card in Maryland?
The initial application review process can take several weeks to complete. Once your healthcare provider uploads your certification, you will be able to print your card.
How can I get a Maryland medical marijuana prescription?
While there is no such thing as a medical marijuana prescription in the state, Maryland residents who feel they qualify for a medical marijuana card must obtain a written certification from a healthcare practitioner and register with the MMCC.
Do I need a medical marijuana card to visit a Maryland dispensary?
No, adults are able to shop at recreational cannabis dispensaries in Maryland. However, if you are a medical marijuana patient, you will need to provide a valid, state-issued medical marijuana card to visit a medical dispensary.
Does Maryland accept out-of-state medical cards?
No, Maryland does not accept medical marijuana cards issued by other states.
How much medical cannabis can I purchase during my dispensary visits in Maryland?
A patient and their designated caregiver may purchase up to a 30-day supply of dried flower and THC. This amount is dictated by the certifying physician.