Get a Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Card: Easy 5-Step Guide
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Getting your Pennsylvania medical marijuana card may seem overwhelming at first, but with this easy guide, you’ll be well on your way to accessing the relief you need.
Join the over 4.4 million registered medical marijuana patients in the US who have learned to use cannabis as medicine. You certainly won’t be alone on your journey!
And we’ll be here waiting to support and help guide you.
Let’s learn the facts together!
Is Marijuana Legal in Pennsylvania?
Recreational Marijuana
No, Pennsylvania has not legalized the adult use of marijuana.
Possession, sale or distribution, cultivation, and even paraphernalia are illegal. Possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana may be charged as a misdemeanor punishable by 30 days in jail and or a $500.00 fine.
Medical Marijuana
Yes, Pennsylvania does have a Medical Marijuana Program. The Pennsylvania Department of Health oversees the program. On April 26, 2016, PA medical marijuana became legal with the signing of Senate Bill 3 by Governor Tom Wolf.
Currently, adults aged 21 and above can legally access medical marijuana as long as they have a valid medical card. Qualifying patients under 18 may apply for a medical card with an approved caregiver.
Medical marijuana in Pennsylvania includes high THC, CBD and other cannabinoids. Patients may purchase up to 90 days of medicine. As of July 2021, patients may purchase up to a 3 month supply of medical cannabis.
Pennsylvania has a non-smoking medical marijuana program. Dry herb vaporizing is the alternative method.
Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Qualifying Conditions
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Anxiety disorders
- Autism
- Cancer, including remission therapy
- Chronic Hepatitis C
- Crohn’s disease
- Damage to the nervous tissue of the central nervous system (brain-spinal cord) with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, and other associated neuropathies
- Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV / AIDS
- Huntington’s disease
- Terminal illness
- Tourette syndrome
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Intractable seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
- Neurodegenerative diseases
- Neuropathies
- Opioid use disorder for which conventional therapeutic interventions are contraindicated or ineffective, or for which adjunctive therapy is indicated in combination with primary therapeutic interventions
- Parkinson’s disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Severe chronic or intractable pain of neuropathic origin or severe chronic or intractable pain
- Sickle cell anemia
What are The Benefits of Getting My Pennsylvania Medical Cannabis Card?
Having a medical card in Pennsylvania offers numerous advantages beyond simply accessing medical cannabis.
One key advantage is the legal protection it provides. With a valid medical card, you can possess and use cannabis without fear of legal repercussions.
Additionally, having a medical card allows you to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries, ensuring you have access to reliable and regulated products.
How Do I Find a Doctor And Get My Marijuana Card Online?
How Do I Find a Doctor in Pennsylvania And Get My Marijuana Card Online?
The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program provides a list of approved providers for you to choose from.
Most people want the convenience of seeing a healthcare provider online for certification. The Cannabis Community will help you schedule your certification with an approved Pennsylvania provider.
There are some important steps you need to follow in order to be certified. Let’s walk through them together.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania
Step 1
Register with the PA Medical Marijuana Program. You must complete this step before you can schedule a visit with a provider.
Use your state-issued ID (Driver’s License) when registering. Create your account name exactly how it appears on your ID. Make sure your address is correct.
Step 2
Schedule your appointment with an approved healthcare provider. You will need the patient identification number you received after registering with the state.
If approved, the healthcare provider will submit the certification to Pennsylvania.
When scheduled through the Cannabis Community, the provider will not charge you unless approved.
Step 3
Wait for the state to approve your certification officially. An email will be sent to you confirming your certification. The email will include the steps to visit your patient account and pay the $50 state registration fee.
Step 4
Wait for your card to arrive in the mail. It usually takes about 7 days to print from the date you paid the state registration fee and another 14 days to receive it in the mail. Your card is good for one year before you need to renew.
Step 5
Plan your first visit to a PA Medical Dispensary!
What Documents Do I need?
- Patient ID Number – You’ll need your patient number that was assigned to you after you created an account on the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Registry.
- Proof of Identity – PA driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Medical Cannabis Recommendation – Our online providers will submit your recommendation information to the state.
How Much Will It Cost to Get a PA Medical Marijuana Card?
Schedule Your Virtual Visit For November 29th or 30th and Save $50 on Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Card Certifications!
(The state of Pennsylvania charges a separate $50.00 fee for registration)
- New patient certification through the Cannabis Community is discounted to $126.65. (Normally, the fee is $149.00, but our community discount is 15% off with Code TCC. Check back often for Savings events)
- If you are renewing your medical card, the cost will be $84 with our 15% community discount.
- The PA State fee is $50 for patients or caregivers. (Medicaid, PACE/PACENET, CHP, SNAP, or WIC may have fee waived)
Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Card Discount – Use Code: TCCPA
You only pay if you’re approved! It’s that simple.
Sign up for our newsletter to be alerted about our Pennsylvania medical marijuana card certification special pricing events!
Are there any discounts or cost-saving options available for Pennsylvania Medical Cannabis cardholders?
- Our everyday discount for cannabis certification or renewals is 15% with Code TCC. Sign up for email alerts for our monthly community savings events!
- Pennsylvania may waive the $50 registration fee if you have Medicaid, PACE/PACENET, CHP, SNAP, or WIC.
- Most dispensaries offer discounts for Medicaid/SSI, veterans, industry, seniors, and first-time purchases. Always ask!
- Dispensaries may have loyalty programs. Earn redeemable cash points for every dollar you spend.
- Sign up for The Cannabis Community Newsletter and be the first to learn about community savings events for renewals and new certifications.
- Learn how to make edibles with The Cannabis Community Recipes.
How Do I Renew My Medical Weed Card in Pennsylvania?
- Get Re-Certified: Schedule a quick appointment with a Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana physician 30 days before expiration. They’ll update your state records.
- Check Your Information: Ensure your details are current in your patient account.
- Confirm Address: Double-check that you have your correct address listed.
- Payment: Pay the $50 annual fee via a link sent a month before card expiry. Some may qualify for a fee reduction.
- Receive New Card: Once re-certified and payment is made, your new card, valid from the day after your old card expires, will be mailed to you.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Your PA Med Card Through The Cannabis Community?
The Cannabis Community exists because of patients and advocates who want to make a difference and help end the negative stigma of cannabis!
Our free online educational platform and Facebook communities are here for you. We are real people working together to make plant medicine more accessible and understood.
- Expert Guidance: The Cannabis Community offers expert advice and guidance through every step of the application process, ensuring that you have all the necessary information and support.
- Streamlined Process: Our process is user-friendly and efficient, minimizing the time and effort needed to obtain your medical card.
- Educational Resources: Access to a wealth of educational materials helps you stay informed about medical cannabis, its uses, and the latest research and legal changes.
- Community Support: Being part of The Cannabis Community means you’re never alone in your journey. You’ll have access to a network of peers and professionals who can share their experiences and offer support. Join our private Facebook Groups!
How Do I Apply For a Caregiver in Pennsylvania?
In the medical marijuana program, a caregiver is someone authorized to obtain medical marijuana from a dispensary for their patient(s). This role is distinct from the practitioner who provides the patient’s certification.
Caregiver Restrictions
- A patient can have up to two caregivers.
- Caregivers are mandatory for minor patients.
Application Process
- Caregivers must complete their own application for a medical marijuana caregiver card.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 21 or older.
- Reside in Pennsylvania with proof of residency.
- Have a Pennsylvania driver’s license or state-issued ID.
- Pass a criminal history background check.
- Cannot have drug-related convictions in the past five years.
- Register for and obtain a caregiver ID card to access medical marijuana from Pennsylvania dispensaries.
Processing Time
- Caregiver application status updates may take up to six weeks post-fingerprinting.
Where can I learn More About How to Use Medical Cannabis?
If you’re new to using marijuana as medicine, it may feel overwhelming, but there are many resources available.
Your medical provider may be able to help suggest a good starting point. Although most general healthcare providers still have limited knowledge about medical cannabis, medical marijuana practitioners have had training.
Your local dispensary will have trained budtenders who are more than happy to help you. They are knowledgeable in the various products available and love to share their insight into the plant.
Many dispensaries will offer a private consultation. Don’t be afraid to ask.
The Cannabis Community has free educational guides and resources ready for you to expand your knowledge. Check out our guides and recipes!
Join our Facebook communities and learn from other patients and our knowledgeable team of experts.
We wish you all the best on your cannabis journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of having a Pennsylvania medical marijuana card?
Having a medical card in Pennsylvania offers many benefits beyond simply accessing medical cannabis.
One key advantage is the legal protection it provides. With a valid medical card, you can possess and use cannabis without fear of legal repercussions.
Additionally, having a medical card allows you to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries, ensuring you have access to reliable and regulated products.
How long does it take to get my weed card in PA?
It takes about 2 weeks from the date you paid the state $50 fee.
You will need your medical cannabis card and photo ID to make a purchase at a Pennsylvania dispensary.
How do I find a Pennsylvania medical dispensary near me?
The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program keeps a list of all state medical dispensaries. You can view a map or PDF version of the list.
Always call a new dispensary first to find current hours and locations. We noticed that the state website isn’t always up to date.
Can I grow my own medical marijuana in PA?
No, unfortunately, home cultivation of marijuana is not allowed for Pennsylvania patients.
What should I expect on my first dispensary trip?
Visiting a dispensary for the first time can be an exciting experience. When making your initial trip, it’s important to come prepared.
Bring your medical card, valid ID, and cash, as many dispensaries only accept cash payments. Most PA dispensaries will have ATMs onsite. Some will have cashless debit available as well.
Once inside, knowledgeable staff will be available to guide you through the different products and consumption methods available, helping you find the best options for your specific medical needs.
What kinds of medical marijuana are available in PA dispensaries?
PA dispensary products include whole cannabis flower, vapes, concentrates, RSO, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and accessories.
Pennsylvania dispensaries have a wide selection of THC, CBD and some lesser cannabinoid ratios such as CBN.
Can I go to the dispensary without a medical cannabis card?
No, you must have a certified medical card to visit a dispensary in Pennsylvania.
What are the marijuana possession laws in PA?
Adult-use marijuana remains illegal in Pennsylvania; therefore, no amount is legal to possess.
Registered medical patients in PA may possess/buy up to 90 days (3 months) of medicine. The state database will track your purchases for all dispensaries to access.
Can minors in Pennsylvania register for a medical cannabis card?
Yes, patients in PA who are under 18 may apply for a medical marijuana card with an approved caregiver.
How long is my Pennsylvania medical card good?
Your medical marijuana certification is good for one year. The state recommends you begin the renewal process 30 days before the expiration.
Does Pennsylvania offer reciprocity to patients with medical marijuana from other states?
Unfortunately, the PA medical dispensaries and card certifications are available to state residents only.
What towns in Pennsylvania do you offer medical cannabis card certifications?
We serve patients across the entire state of Pennsylvania.
We can help you schedule your virtual appointment with a medical marijuana provider for certification regardless of where you live.
We see patients from Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Reading, Erie, Bethlehem, Chester, Coatesville, Easton, Harrisburg, Steelton, Lancaster, McKees Rocks, Duquesne, Norristown, York, Aliquippa, Altoona, Arnold, Beaver Falls and many more.
