How to Get a Medical Cannabis Card in Maryland

Maryland (MD)Program Active

How to get a medical marijuana card in Maryland. No registration fee, qualifying conditions, application steps, and benefits of Maryland's medical cannabis program.

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Program Details

Registration Fee

$0 (no fee)

Renewal Period

1 year

Minimum Age

18+

Renewal Fee$0

TelemedicineAllowed

CaregiverAllowed

ReciprocityNot Accepted

Overview

Maryland launched its medical cannabis program in 2014 and legalized recreational cannabis in 2023. The program is now managed by the Maryland Cannabis Administration. One of the most attractive features of Maryland's medical program is that there is no registration fee for patients. Even with recreational legalization, medical patients benefit from lower tax rates (no sales tax on medical cannabis vs. 9% on recreational) and can purchase at age 18 instead of 21. The application process is straightforward and telemedicine evaluations are accepted.

Key Facts

•No registration fee for medical cannabis patients.
•Medical cannabis purchases are exempt from the 9% recreational sales tax.
•Maryland uses a patient ID system rather than a physical card.
•Telemedicine evaluations are accepted for physician certifications.
•Patients 18+ can register; those under 18 need a caregiver.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1Register as a patient on the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) online portal.

2Schedule an appointment with a Maryland-licensed physician registered with the MCA.

3Obtain a physician certification for a qualifying condition.

4Once your physician submits the certification, your patient ID number becomes active in the system.

5Use your patient ID number and valid government-issued photo ID at any licensed dispensary to purchase medical cannabis.

Visit official Maryland medical cannabis registry →

Qualifying Conditions

+Cachexia (wasting syndrome)

+Anorexia

+Chronic pain

+Severe nausea

+Seizures

+Severe or persistent muscle spasms

+Glaucoma

+PTSD

+Chronic or debilitating disease or condition that results in a patient being admitted to hospice or receiving palliative care

+Any condition that is severe and for which other treatments have been ineffective

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Maryland medical cannabis card cost?+

There is no state registration fee for medical cannabis patients in Maryland. You only pay for the physician evaluation, which typically costs $100-$200.

Why should I get a medical card in Maryland now that recreational is legal?+

Medical patients are exempt from the 9% sales tax on recreational cannabis, can purchase at age 18, have higher possession limits, and may access products not available recreationally.

Does Maryland accept out-of-state medical cards?+

No, Maryland does not currently have a reciprocity program for out-of-state medical cannabis patients.

Medical Cards in Other States

Explore medical cannabis card guides for other states with similar programs or neighboring jurisdictions.

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Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Cannabis remains illegal under US federal law. Maryland's medical cannabis program fees, qualifying conditions, and regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the official Maryland medical cannabis program and consult with a qualified health care provider before pursuing a medical cannabis card. Cannabismarketcap does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information presented.