Maryland Medical Marijuana FAQs

The Maryland medical marijuana process can seem overwhelming at first glance. In reality, applying for a cannabis card in the Old Line State is simple -- you simply need to know where to begin, and the Sanctuary is here to help.

Here are a few of the most common questions our staff receives about applying for medical marijuana in Maryland.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Cannabis Card in Maryland?

Any Maryland resident who has a qualifying medical condition and a physician who recommends medical marijuana as a treatment option may apply for a cannabis card. You will need to submit proof of residency and a physician’s certification with your application.

What Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana?

In Maryland, the following conditions qualify for medical marijuana certification:

Cachexia
Anorexia
Glaucoma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Severe nausea
Seizures
Conditions that require hospice or palliative care
Severe or chronic pain
Severe or persistent muscle spasms

If you have a condition that is not on this list but you believe may benefit from medical marijuana treatment, you do have options available to you.

The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) allows certifications for chronic medical conditions that are severe, do not respond to other treatments, and whose symptoms can be relieved by medical marijuana use. Speak to a Maryland physician to discuss your options.

Can I See Any Doctor to Get a Medical Marijuana Certification?

Maryland only allows physicians registered with the MMCC to certify patients for medical marijuana use. You must establish a bona fide provider-patient relationship with your doctor, which essentially means the doctor has reviewed your medical records, evaluated you in-person, maintains your medical records, and expects to monitor and follow-up with you in the future.

The Sanctuary can connect you with a properly licensed professional who can evaluate your qualifying condition, submit your certification through the MMCC website, and help you obtain your MMCC ID card.

How Long After Certification Can I Buy Medical Cannabis?

After your examination, your physician will immediately issue you a certification if they believe your condition qualifies for medical cannabis. They will enter your information in the MMCC database.

Once the database is updated with your information, you can print a temporary MMCC ID card and take it to any licensed Maryland dispensary to purchase cannabis.

Can I Grow My Own Cannabis Plants?

Maryland does not allow medical marijuana patients to grow their own cannabis plants.

How Much Does It Cost to Receive an MMCC ID Card?

The MMCC charges a $50 fee for patients registering for a medical marijuana card. MMCC ID cards issued after January 1st, 2019 last for three years.

How Much Cannabis Can I Purchase?

On your certification, your physician will identify how much dried flower and THC you need to treat your condition over a 30-day period. This is the maximum amount of medical marijuana you can purchase at a time.

The 30-day timeframe is a rolling period, beginning on the day you purchase your cannabis supply, not at the beginning of the calendar month.

How Do I Apply for an MMCC ID Card?

Applying for an MMCC ID card requires a number of steps. You will need to submit an initial application, visit a physician for certification, and complete your registration online.

If you need help applying for your Maryland cannabis card, finding the right doctor for you, or have any questions about the process, the Sanctuary can help. We connect medical marijuana patients with licensed physicians who can help them obtain the treatment they need.