Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Card – How to Apply

Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Card – How to Apply

Getting a medical marijuana card Pennsylvania residents can legally use is a straightforward process when you understand the state requirements. Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program allows eligible patients to access cannabis for approved serious medical conditions with a doctor’s certification.

Below, we break down who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect, so you can confidently complete your application.

Getting a medical marijuana card Pennsylvania residents can legally use is a straightforward process when you understand the state requirements. Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program allows eligible patients to access cannabis for approved serious medical conditions with a doctor’s certification.

Below, we break down who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect, so you can confidently complete your application.

Who Can Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania?

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Pennsylvania, you must:

  • Be a Pennsylvania resident
  • Have an approved serious medical condition
  • Be certified by a state-approved physician
  • Register with the Pennsylvania Department of Health Medical Marijuana Program

Both adults and minors may apply. Minors must have a registered caregiver.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania

1

Register with the PA Medical Marijuana Registry

Create an account on the state registry using:

  • A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or state-issued ID
  • A current address
  • A working email address

Save your Patient ID number, which is required for your doctor’s visit.

2

Get Certified by an Approved Physician

Schedule an evaluation with a Pennsylvania-approved medical marijuana doctor.

  • Appointments may be in-person or via telemedicine
  • The physician confirms your qualifying condition
  • If approved, they submit your certification electronically
3

Pay the State Fee

Log back into the registry and pay the $50 state fee.

💡 You may qualify for a reduced fee if enrolled in:

  • Medicaid
  • SNAP
  • CHIP
  • WIC
  • PACE / PACENET
4

Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card

Your physical card is mailed by the state, typically within 7–14 days.

Once received, you can legally purchase medical marijuana at any licensed Pennsylvania dispensary.

1

Register with the PA Medical Marijuana Registry

Create an account on the state registry using:

  • A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or state-issued ID
  • A current address
  • A working email address

Save your Patient ID number, which is required for your doctor’s visit.

2

Get Certified by an Approved Physician

Schedule an evaluation with a Pennsylvania-approved medical marijuana doctor.

  • Appointments may be in-person or via telemedicine
  • The physician confirms your qualifying condition
  • If approved, they submit your certification electronically
3

Pay the State Fee

Log back into the registry and pay the $50 state fee.

💡 You may qualify for a reduced fee if enrolled in:

  • Medicaid
  • SNAP
  • CHIP
  • WIC
  • PACE / PACENET
4

Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card

Your physical card is mailed by the state, typically within 7–14 days.

Once received, you can legally purchase medical marijuana at any licensed Pennsylvania dispensary.

Qualifying Medical Conditions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania recognizes over 20 serious medical conditions. As of 2026, common qualifying conditions include:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Autism
  • Cancer (including remission therapy)
  • Chronic or intractable pain
  • Epilepsy and intractable seizures
  • HIV / AIDS
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Neurodegenerative diseases
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Terminal illness
  • Tourette syndrome

Some conditions, such as Type II Diabetes Mellitus and Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury, are approved for research purposes only.

Caregivers and Minor Patients

Caregivers

A caregiver may legally pick up medical marijuana on behalf of a patient.

Caregiver requirements:

  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Must register with the state program
  • Must pass a criminal background check
  • Can assist multiple patients
  • Required for minors


For Minors:

Patients under 18 must have a registered caregiver. The caregiver manages dispensary visits and medication access.

Source:
https://www.pa.gov/services/health/register-for-the-medical-marijuana-program

Important Things to Know Before Visiting a Dispensary

  • Bring your medical marijuana card
  • Bring a valid photo ID
  • Purchases are tracked through the state system
  • Caregivers must present their caregiver ID

Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program Official Site

Apply for Your Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania Today

Applying for a medical marijuana card Pennsylvania patients rely on doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper registration, a certified doctor, and timely payment, you can gain legal access to medical cannabis and dispensaries statewide.

If you’re ready to start, our team can help guide you through doctor certification, registration, and renewals—all online.