A look at how to get a medical marijuana card in Florida. Additional information can be found at floridahealth.gov.
Florida voters had the chance to make recreational marijuana legal for adults, but although the amendment received a majority of the votes (55.9% in the unofficial results) it failed to meet the state's 60% threshold.
However, medical marijuana remains legal thanks to a different constitutional amendment that was overwhelmingly approved in 2016, and it remains popular.
As of Nov. 1, 2024, there are currently 882,524 qualified patients in Florida signed up for Medical Marijuana Cards, according to the state's Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) latest report.
There are 20 different cannabis companies set up with dispensaries -- the biggest, Trulieve, has 156 locations, with 79 MüV locations, 67 Ayr Cannabis Dispensaries and 66 Curaleaf locations -- and at least five more have been approved but have not yet opened any locations.
Here's how to tell if you're eligible for medical marijuana in Florida, and what to do next.
How do I get a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida?
That's it. Once you receive your card you can visit any medical marijuana dispensary in the state.
Online applications take an average of 10 business days for approval, mail-in applications will take an additional 3-5 days.
Who can buy medical marijuana in Florida?
A person may apply for a Medical Marijuana ID Card if they meet the following requirements:
If you are not a patient but care for one, you can apply for a Medical Marijuana Caregiver ID Card for that person. You will be permitted to order, purchase and transport -- but not use -- medical marijuana on their behalf. Caregivers must be 21 or older and complete a caregiver certification course every two years. If you are not a close relative of the patient, you must pass a background screening.
Can minors get a medical marijuana card in Florida?
There are no age limits, but minors must be diagnosed by two physicians and have "the "voluntary, written, informed consent from the patient or their legal guardian," according to the OMMU.
If you are under 18, you may not smoke cannabis unless you have been diagnosed with a terminal condition.
What are the qualifying medical conditions for a medical marijuana card in Florida?
How much does it cost to get a medical marijuana card in Florida?
Registration is $75. Your card must be renewed every year within 45 days of the card's expiration for an additional $75. This is in addition to whatever your physician may charge for an office visit.
Medical marijuana, since it is still illegal as far as the Federal Government is concerned, is not covered by Medicare.
Do I need to see a doctor to renew my medical marijuana card in Florida?
Yes. According to state law, you must keep an active Florida Medical Marijuana certification by seeing a qualified physician every seven months (210 days) for an evaluation.
In June 2023, Gov. DeSantis signed a bill into law allowing Florida medical marijuana cardholders to renew their certifications through telehealth services, but only if they were previously certified.
How do I find a qualified physician to get a medical marijuana card in Florida?
The OMMU maintains a list, or you can use their physician search tool. There are currently 2,405 qualified physicians in Florida.
Is it difficult to get medical marijuana in Florida?
If you qualify, the process is relatively painless.
How much medical marijuana can I buy in Florida?
Your physician will determine the proper amount for your condition, and every sale from a medical marijuana dispensary will be tracked by the state against the total you are allowed.
According to Florida Statute 381.986, a qualified physician may not issue a physician certification for more than three 70-day supply limits of marijuana or more than six 35-day supply limits of marijuana in a form for smoking, and a 35-day supply for smokable marijuana must be 2.5 ounces or less. Other forms of marijuana have their own limits, according to the state's 64ER22-8 2023 Dosing and Supply Limits for Medical Marijuana:
You may not possess more than 4 ounces of smokable marijuana. A qualified physician may request an exception to the daily dose amount limit, the 35-day supply limit of marijuana in a form for smoking, and the 4-ounce possession limit of smokable marijuana if warranted.
How many people use medical marijuana in Florida?
The OMMU lists 882,524 qualified patients with an active Medical Marijuana ID Card as of Nov. 1.
How many medical marijuana dispensaries are in Florida? How do I find one near me?
As of Nov. 1, the OMMU lists 692 licensed dispensaries in Florida. You can search for one near you at knowthefactsmmj.com/mmtc/#search
Depending on your location, some dispensaries may deliver.
Can I go to any dispensary in Florida with a medical card?
Yes. At the point of sale the dispensary staff will register your sale with the state, which will count against your allowable limit.
Can I use my medical marijuana card from another state in Florida?
No. The state of Florida does not offer reciprocity. Possession of marijuana by anyone besides a resident or temporary resident with a valid Florida Medical Marijuana ID card or Medical Marijuana Caregiver ID card is still illegal.
Do I need to go to a medical marijuana dispensary to buy CBD products?
If the CBD item is a low-THC product derived from hemp with less than 035mg THC per serving or 2mg of total THC per package, you can buy it at any licensed retail or convenience store in Florida. CBD products with higher levels of THC must be sold through a licensed marijuana dispensary,