How to Get a New York Medical Marijuana Card
Step-by-Step Guide to Joining the New York Medical Marijuana Program
If you’re interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card in the state of New York, Verilife is here to guide you through the process. Every medical-use state has its own program and set of regulations, so make sure to follow our New York-specific guide below.
Learn more about New York’s medical marijuana program with our guide.
New York Medical Marijuana Card Qualifications
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
- A legal resident of New York
- A certification for medical cannabis from a practitioner registered with the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)
Step 1: Work with a Medical Marijuana Practitioner in New York
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.
If your current practitioner is not registered with New York’s medical marijuana program and/or unable to assist in your application process, you can contact a participating practitioner near you or a New York-licensed cannabis telemedicine provider.
Step 2: Get Your Patient Certification
Once you and your medical practitioner have discussed your qualifying conditions, they will complete a patient certification and upload it to the Medical Cannabis Data Management System for approval. You will also receive a printed and signed copy of the certification so that you can complete your portion of the online application.
Please note that New York no longer has a list of qualifying conditions that a patient must meet to be considered for medical marijuana.
Step 3: Complete Your New York Medical Marijuana Application
After your practitioner submits your patient certificate, you’ll need to create an account on my.NY.gov 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 4: Get Your New York Medical Marijuana Card
Once your application is submitted and approved, you’ll receive a digital medical cannabis card to print and use for up to 30 days. Your permanent, hard copy will arrive in the mail in around 7-10 days.
Medical cannabis patients in New York are allowed to designate up to five caregivers who can purchase and administer products on their behalf. Caregivers will also need to register and obtain their own medical marijuana card.
Step 5: Your First New York Dispensary Visit
You are eligible to visit any state-licensed dispensary in New York as soon as you have your temporary card. Remember to bring a government-issued photo ID, along with your card.
Have questions? We’ve got answers
No matter your level of comfort or knowledge with medical marijuana, we can help answer your questions. Our friendly cannabis sales consultants are happy to talk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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?
As of January 2022, there is no longer 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 a temporary card you can use for up to 30 days. You’ll receive your medical marijuana card in the mail in about 7-10 days from the date of approval.
Where can I find my temporary New York medical marijuana card?
Once the application process is complete, log into your account at my.NY.gov, and select "Health Applications," and then the "Medical Cannabis Data Management System." Click on the three white lines on the top-left side of the screen. Select the "My Temporary Card" option from the drop-down menu. Select the blue link to open and print your temporary ID card.
How long is my medical marijuana card good for in New York?
Your medical marijuana card is valid for 12 months in New York. The physical recommendation from the physician may be good for up to 12 months, after which the physician can extend the certification within the Medical Cannabis Data Management System.
A patient’s medical card remains active as long as they have an active certification from a provider. Length of certification is at the discretion of the provider.
How do I register as a medical marijuana caregiver in New York?
A patient must first designate you as a caregiver during their registration process. Once the patient has been approved, the caregiver will need to register with the New York Office of Cannabis Management. Click here for more information on how to register as a patient caregiver.
How much medical marijuana can I purchase during my New York dispensary visits?
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 physician.
Can I visit multiple New York dispensaries in one day?
There is no limit in New York to the number of dispensaries you can visit per day. However, dispensaries will have a record of how much medical marijuana a patient has purchased that day, and they will not dispense more than the state-allowed amount.