How to Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in PA

Medical marijuana caregivers can receive a PA medical marijuana card and purchase medical cannabis products on behalf of minors, homebound adults, and other patients who can demonstrate a need for such assistance.

Each caregiver can provide care for an unlimited number of patients. To serve as a caregiver, you must be a Pennsylvania resident who’s at least 21 years old.

To become a caregiver in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

1. Register Online: Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Medical Marijuana Program website and create an account.

2. Complete a Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check and get fingerprinted. This step ensures you don't have any disqualifying criminal convictions.
3. Submit a Caregiver Application: Fill out the caregiver application on the Department of Health's website. This form will require information about the patient you'll be caring for.
4. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the state’s $50 caregiver application fee.
5. Get Approved: Once your application and background check are submitted, you’ll need to wait three to four weeks for approval from the Department of Health.
6. Receive Your Caregiver ID Card: After completing the aforementioned steps, you'll receive a caregiver ID card that will allow you to purchase, possess, and administer medical marijuana to the registered patient(s) you signed up to care for.