Florida's medical marijuana program was established in 2016 with the passage of Amendment 2, which allows patients with qualifying conditions to obtain medical cannabis. The OMMU regulates the program and is in charge of registering patients, caregivers, and licensed medical marijuana treatment centers (MMTCs).
Prior to applying for a medical marijuana registry ID card, patients must obtain a recommendation from a qualified physician. Once registered, they can buy medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries across the state.
Who Is Eligible for Medical Marijuana in Florida?
In Florida, eligibility for medical cannabis depends on three factors:
- You must be at least 18 years old (caregivers must be at least 21 years old and can apply on behalf of patients under 18).
- You must be diagnosed with a qualifying condition.
- You must be a Florida resident (either permanently or temporarily).
How Do I Prove Florida Residency?
Full-Time Residents
If you apply online as a full-time Florida resident, the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles will verify your driver's license or state identification. If you submit a paper application, you must include a copy of your Florida driver's license or state ID.
Temporary/Part-Time/Seasonal Residents
Under Florida law, a temporary resident is someone who:
- Spends at least 31 days in Florida per calendar year
- Returns to their native state at least once a year
- Is a registered voter in the United States or pays income taxes in another state
When applying for a Florida MMJ card, temporary residents must provide copies of two of the following documents:
- A mortgage, a deed, a monthly mortgage statement, a mortgage payment booklet, or a lease agreement
- One proof of residence address from a person with whom the part-time resident lives, as well as a declaration stating that the part-time resident resides there
- A hook-up/work order for water, cable, or electricity that’s less than 60 days old
- A bill for water, cable, or utilities that’s less than 60 days old
- Mail received from a financial institution within the last 60 days
- Mail from a federal, state, county, or city government agency that’s less than 60 days old