How To Join The New York Medical Marijuana Program
New York state legalized medical cannabis in 2016, and the program has seen quite a few evolutions since then. Today, the New York State Department of Health supports the Office of Cannabis Management in maintaining the patient registry, along with managing the state’s recreational cannabis program.
If you’re interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card in the state of New York–although the state no longer issues physical cards–check out our New York-specific guide below.
Qualifications for Medical Cannabis in New York
Before you begin the medical marijuana application process in New York, make sure you meet the following requirements:
- At least 18 years old OR a minor with a designated caregiver who is at least 18 years old; and
- A legal resident of New York; and
- A certification for medical cannabis from a practitioner registered with the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)
Please note that New York no longer has a list of qualifying conditions that a patient must meet to be considered for medical marijuana. Rather, the state allows the healthcare provider to decide if the potential patient is qualified.
How to Apply for a New York Medical Marijuana Card [3 Steps]
Once you decide if you meet the above requirements for a New York medical cannabis card, you’re ready to begin the application process. Follow these steps to become part of the state’s medical cannabis program.
Step 1: Get Your Patient Certification
The first step in the medical marijuana application process in New York is to work with a medical practitioner who can certify that you meet the criteria. The practitioner can be a physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner that is licensed to practice in New York and registered with the state’s medical marijuana program.
The medical practitioner will complete a patient certification and upload it to the Medical Cannabis Data Management System. You will also receive a printed and signed copy of the certification so you can complete your portion of the online application.
Step 2: Complete Your Medical Marijuana Application
After your practitioner submits your patient certificate, visit my.NY.gov to create an account and complete your application online. The online application form will request that you submit the practitioner certification. Patients who are not state residents but are receiving treatment in New York can prove temporary residency by submitting a lease, utility bill, or hospital bill.
Step 3: Get Your Medical Marijuana Card
Once your application is submitted and approved, you’ll receive your registry ID number, which can be used in conjunction with a government-issued photo ID. You are eligible to visit any state-licensed dispensary in New York as soon as you have your ID number.
Renewing Your Medical Card in New York
Medical marijuana certifications are valid for one year, unless the certifying healthcare provider sets an expiration date of less than one year. If you would like to extend your certification, contact your medical professional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The medical cannabis application process can be confusing. Here are the most common questions we hear at our locations.
How much does a medical marijuana card cost in New York?
The New York Department of Health has permanently waived all medical cannabis application fees for all patients and their designated caregivers.
What are the qualifications for a medical marijuana card in New York?
New York does not have a list of qualifying conditions that a patient must meet to be certified for medical marijuana. If the certifying medical practitioner deems it necessary for the patient’s treatment, that patient may be eligible for the use of medical cannabis.
How long does it take to get a New York medical marijuana card?
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your unique registry ID number, and you can begin shopping immediately. New York no longer issues digital or physical cards.
How much medical marijuana can I purchase?
A patient and their designated caregiver may purchase up to a 60-day supply of medical marijuana products in New York. This amount is dictated by the certifying medical practitioner.
Can I use an out-of-state medical marijuana card at a New York dispensary?
No, New York dispensaries are only able to accept medical marijuana cards that are issued by the state.