How To Get A Medical Marijuana Card In New York

By: Hetty Clark

For a city as vibrant and innovative as New York, it can be easy to forget that personal possession of marijuana is not federally legal.

If you want to buy cannabis in a legal and regulated way in New York State, you will need to apply for a Medical Marijuana card.

Before State Regulation came into place in 2014, the process of getting a Medical Marijuana card was quite hard to navigate, as it was difficult to find state registered medical marijuana doctors.

Times have changed and thanks to online telemedical portals , it’s as simple as ordering a take out! Here’s what you need to know.

How to apply for a medical marijuana card in New York

-You must be a legal resident of New York state and be able to provide photo Identification as proof of residency such as a driving license.

-Bank statements and utility bills are another accepted form of identification if you do not have an official ID card.

-You require a written certification from a registered practitioner. You can do this either in person with a registered practitioner, or online with a telemedicine doctor, someone who is authorized to write a certificate for medical cannabis.

-If you are unsure as to the level of your need, it is recommended to speak to your primary physician first.

What you’ll need to apply for your medical marijuana card in New York

You will need to make an appointment with a registered New York State Medical Marijuana doctor. The doctor will evaluate you and if they approve, will give you a written certificate confirming that you have a qualifying condition to apply for the card.
Complete an application for a Medical Marijuana card through NY.gov
Submit to the state authority
There is a $50 fee that is billed later

What are the steps in the application process

Step 1: Make an appointment to see your physician to discuss whether medical marijuana is appropriate to treat your condition.

Step 2: For the fastest, most efficient way you may want to go online for your evaluation. Create a profile. You are then required to complete a confidential questionnaire. A registered marijuana doctor will then evaluate you and give advice as to how marijuana can alleviate your symptoms.

Step 3 : You make a payment, and then as part of the evaluation you will have a short (5-10 min) face to face video conversation with a New York Board fully registered marijuana doctor.

Step 4: If you are approved, you pay the fee, and you will receive your Physician’s certification within 24-48 hours by email. If you are approved, then the evaluation might be free with some services.

Step 5: You will receive an email confirming that you have been approved, and instructions on how to complete your Medical Marijuana registration process for NY State.

Step 6: Register with the Department of Health and fill out the registration. To include your identification and your physician’s certification.

Step 7: As soon as you approved for your MMJ patient ID you will be sent a temporary recommendation that is valid for up to 30 days until your permanent ID arrives in the post. You can legally buy cannabis with the temporary card.

Step 8: Your permanent registration ID will be sent in the mail. It could be anytime between 3-10 days.