How to Get a Medical Cannabis Card in Washington

Washington (WA)Program Active

How to get medical marijuana authorization in Washington State. No state fee, qualifying conditions, tax-free purchases, and step-by-step process for Washington's medical cannabis program.

View full Washington cannabis market profile →Medical cannabis conditions →

Program Details

Registration Fee

$0 (no state fee)

Renewal Period

1 year

Minimum Age

18+

Renewal Fee$0

TelemedicineAllowed

CaregiverAllowed

ReciprocityNot Accepted

Overview

Washington State legalized medical marijuana in 1998 and recreational cannabis in 2012. The medical program does not require a state registration fee. Patients need only a health care professional's authorization to purchase from medically endorsed retail stores. Enrolling in the voluntary Medical Marijuana Authorization Database provides additional benefits including tax exemptions (37% excise tax), higher possession limits, and arrest protection. Washington's program is notable for being one of the few that charges no state fee whatsoever.

Key Facts

•No state registration fee for medical cannabis authorization.
•Database-enrolled patients are exempt from the 37% cannabis excise tax.
•Washington was one of the first states to legalize medical cannabis in 1998.
•Medical patients can grow up to 6 plants at home (15 with provider authorization).
•Telemedicine evaluations are accepted for medical authorizations.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1Obtain a medical marijuana authorization from a Washington-licensed health care professional.

2Optionally, apply for recognition in the Washington State Medical Marijuana Authorization Database for additional protections.

3Visit a medically endorsed cannabis retail store with your authorization.

4Present your authorization and valid ID to purchase medical cannabis products tax-free.

5Renew your authorization annually through your health care provider.

Visit official Washington medical cannabis registry →

Qualifying Conditions

+Cancer

+HIV/AIDS

+Multiple sclerosis

+Epilepsy or seizure disorder

+Spasticity disorders

+Intractable pain

+Glaucoma

+Crohn's disease

+Hepatitis C

+PTSD

+Traumatic brain injury

+Chronic renal failure

+Any terminal or debilitating condition

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Washington medical marijuana authorization cost?+

There is no state fee. You only pay for the health care provider evaluation, typically $100-$200. Enrolling in the database is also free.

How much do Washington medical patients save on taxes?+

Database-enrolled medical patients are exempt from the 37% cannabis excise tax and state sales tax, which represents massive savings on every purchase.

Can Washington medical patients grow cannabis at home?+

Yes, authorized patients can grow up to 6 plants at home. With a health care provider's enhanced authorization, this can increase to 15 plants.

Medical Cards in Other States

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

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Washington Cannabis Market

Conditions & treatments

Home Grow Laws

Washington cultivation

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. Washington's medical cannabis program fees, qualifying conditions, and regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the official Washington 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.