What a Medical Cannabis Recommendation Is
A medical cannabis recommendation is a written certification from a clinician licensed in your state. It is not a prescription. Cannabis sits in Schedule I under federal law, so doctors cannot send it to a pharmacy. The clinician certifies that you have a qualifying condition. You then register with the state and buy cannabis at a licensed dispensary.
how to qualify for medical marijuana
As of 2025, 38 states and the District of Columbia run medical cannabis programs. Qualifying condition lists differ by state. Common entries include cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic pain.
What Happens During the Visit
The appointment runs 10 to 30 minutes. The clinician asks about your diagnosis, symptoms, current medications, and past cannabis use. Most states require medical records or a note from a treating provider. Bring printed records or grant access to your patient portal.
States set the rules for visit format. Some require an in-person exam. Others accept video calls. A few require follow-up visits at set intervals, such as every 90 days or every 7 months. If you do not have a qualifying condition, the clinician will not certify you. A recommendation can be denied.
Medical Cannabis Evaluation Process Guide
Cost and Timeline
- Doctor visit: $50 to $300 in most states.
- State registration fee: $0 to $200. Some states waive the fee for veterans or low-income patients.
- Card validity: 1 year in most states, 2 years in a few.
- Approval time: same day to 30 days, based on the state.
What to Bring
- Government photo ID or state driver's license.
- Medical records that show the diagnosis and diagnosis code.
- Payment. Many clinics take cards. Some state portals take checks or money orders.
- A list of current prescriptions.
What the Card Does Not Do
A state card applies in the state that issued it. Some states honor out-of-state cards. Most do not. Federal law still applies on federal land, at airports, and in national parks. A card does not protect you there.
Federal Form 4473, used for firearm purchases, asks about unlawful use of controlled substances. A state card can affect that answer. Talk to a lawyer if you own firearms.
Medical patients often pay less tax and can buy more product per visit than adult-use customers. Check your state purchase limits before you shop.