Get a marijuana card online in California

Get your California medical marijuana card online in minutes.

  • Visit a certified doctor online — on your schedule.
  • Instantly download your MMJ certification.
  • Not approved? No charge.

It is that simple to get your cannabis card in California.

Two women having a consultation for medical marijuana with a phone and computer showing the options

How To Get A Medical Marijuana Card in California

Consultations with licensed marijuana doctors are available from 9 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week.

  • See if You Qualify for MMIC in CA

    The first thing you'll want to do is review the qualifying conditions for a California medical card. See the list of approved conditions below.
  • Register with Heally

    Once you’ve determined you qualify for a medical marijuana card in California, fill out a quick intake form to get started with the California medical cannabis card process.
  • Consult With A Medical Marijuana Doctor

    Get your California MMJ online or in person when you book an appointment — on your schedule — with a certified medical marijuana doctor. You’ll discuss your medical history and any questions you may have.
  • Receive Your California Medical Marijuana Identification Card

    Once approved, you’ll get immediate access to your MMJ certification. This certificate is valid for one year and includes a unique ID number. While not required, you can use this certificate to apply for a state-issued medical marijuana card in California.

California State Process: Using Your Cannabis Card in California

Using Your California Medical Card

  1. Download the PDF of your doctor’s recommendation letter from your Heally patient dashboard. Note: Certificate is valid for one year from date issued
  2. Save the PDF to your mobile device.
  3. This electronic copy can be used immediately at any licensed medical dispensary in California. You will also need a valid form of photo identification, such as a driver’s license.
  4. Recreational dispensaries require a hard copy letter. You will have the option to receive a ‘Physician-Issued’ physical California medical marijuana identification card (MMIC) in the mail.
  5. Once you receive your physical card, you can legally purchase medical marijuana from any licensed dispensary. Please note that you will also need a valid form of photo identification, such as a driver’s license.

Use Your California Medical Card to Register for the CA MMIC Program

It should be noted that this is entirely optional in the state of California. The MMIC card is state-issued and while not required, does have benefits, including:

  • No sales tax when purchasing medicinal marijuana
  • Protection under Proposition 215 and Senate Bill 94
  • Identifies your ability to possess medical amounts to law enforcement
  1. You will need to first receive your recommendation letter from a certified MMJ licensed doctor.
  2. Fill out the application for an MMIC card at your county office and pay the registration fee. This fee will not exceed $100.
  3. You will receive a state-issued MMIC card with a unique patient ID number that can be used to immediately verify your eligibility at any dispensary or law enforcement agency.

Not sure if you qualify?

Don't worry, if the doctor does not approve you,

you will get your money back.

Happy
a happy elderly couple smiling and laughing at the camera

Qualifying Conditions for Getting Your MMJ Card in California

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in CA, there are several approved qualifying conditions. In California, medical marijuana can be recommended for a wide range of conditions, including:

  • AIDS/HIV
  • Arthritis
  • Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
  • Cancer
  • Chronic pain
  • Glaucoma
  • Migraine
  • Severe nausea
  • Persistent muscle spasms (e.g. spasms caused by Multiple Sclerosis)
  • Seizures (for example, epileptic seizures)
  • Additional conditions as identified by doctor*

*Any enduring or continual medical condition that significantly hinders an individual from engaging in essential life activities, as outlined in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or if left unaddressed, could pose a serious risk to the individual's safety and well-being, whether physical or mental.

Renew Your California Medical Card

Your medical cannabis card in CA is only valid for one year from the date it is issued, so it is important to renew it annually! Renewing your medical card, also referred to as a marijuana card in California, is just as simple as applying for it.

  • Make sure you still qualify. Keep your medical documentation up to date.
  • Meet with a licensed MMJ physician. Even if you originally qualified elsewhere, you can renew your California medical card online with Heally. Simply book an online appointment at your convenience through our HIPAA-compliant telehealth services.
    Note: if your address, name, or other personal information has changed, you will need to have the necessary documentation for the appointment available.
  • Receive your updated California medical card recommendation. With your electronic copy, you can enter any licensed medical dispensary immediately.

Get Approved Today

*Indicates Required Field

Medical Marijuana Card for Minors

In California, minors under the age of 18 have the opportunity to apply for a medical marijuana card in California
when facing qualifying conditions such as:

  • Cancer
  • Epilepsy
  • Autism

In order to receive a medical marijuana card as a minor, you will need:

  • Parental consent
  • A physician's recommendation
  • The presence of an adult caregiver or legal guardian
  • Valid state-issued photo identification — mandatory for both the minor patient and caregiver during the application or renewal process.
    • A certified copy of their birth certificate can serve as valid proof of identity for minors without a government-issued ID.
Sign Up

Register a caregiver with Heally in California

To qualify as a primary caregiver in California, individuals must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Hold residency in California is a requirement, though not necessarily in the same county as the patient.
  • Reside in the same county if primary caregiver for multiple qualified patients

To apply as a primary caregiver in California, you must:

  • Visit the appropriate county Public Health Department with the patient
    • In California, it is important to note that primary caregivers cannot directly obtain a medical marijuana identification card (MMIC).
    • It is the responsibility of medical cannabis patients to apply for an MMIC on behalf of their caregivers.
  • Provide proof of identity which can be a CA driver’s license, CA state ID card, or other government-issued photo ID card
Sign Up
cartoon images of a clipboard, pen, legal document, and gavel

Medical Marijuana Laws in California

Legality

All Californians age 21 and older can now legally use cannabis for recreational and medical purposes as of 2016. However, there are benefits to holding a weed card in California. These include:

  • Lower taxes. Those with a MMJ card in CA will only pay 15% tax on their products.
  • Access to more product. Some jurisdictions do not allow recreational dispensaries.
  • Higher possession. Those with a California medical card can carry up to 8 oz of flower or concentrate vs the 1 oz of flower and 8 oz of concentrate for recreational users.

Qualifications

If you’re wondering how to get a medical marijuana card in California, the state makes it as simple as possible. You need to:

  • Be a legal resident of California
  • Be 18 years of age (qualifying patients under 18 can have caregivers apply on their behalf)
  • Have a qualifying condition
  • Have the recommendation of a licensed MMJ physician

There is an additional fee to acquire a ‘physician-issued’ physical card; this fee is set by the doctor you will be consulting with.

Reciprocity

California does not provide reciprocity for individuals holding MMJ cards from other states. However, There are many states who practice reciprocity for those holding a CA medical card.

Restrictions

Some restrictions apply regardless of medical qualifications. These restrictions include:

  • No smoking cannabis anywhere tobacco is not permitted
  • No smoking cannabis in public (unless public ordinance allows it)
  • No using cannabis while operating a vehicle
  • No smoking within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare, or youth center. If in a private residence, then the children must not be able to smell cannabis or detect any smoke

How Does Heally Work In California

Heally is a legitimate online platform for getting medical marijuana cards in California. All you have to do is create an account and get instantly connected with a licensed doctor in the state. The process involves a telehealth visit where patients discuss their medical issues, and the doctor determines if medical marijuana is suitable for their condition.

It's important to note that Heally guarantees a risk-free consultation by not charging clients if their requests are rejected by the physician. Heally offers the convenience of renewing a medical card in California as well, even if you originally got your MMJ card somewhere else. Heally provides numerous benefits for patients in California, including easy access to licensed doctors, a convenient online platform, and a streamlined process for obtaining or renewing medical marijuana cards.

a cartoon image of a laptop displaying Heally’s patient dashboard

Why choose Heally

Fast and Easy Online Process

Heally provides an easy-to-follow online process for getting an MMJ card in California. Without leaving their homes, patients can apply for an MMJ card, doing away with the need to go to the doctor's office.

Affordable Pricing with No Hidden Costs

The affordable cost of a California MMJ card on the heally platform makes them available to a broader range of patients. The price of obtaining an MMJ card through Heally is affordable when compared to alternative options.

Security and privacy

Heally is concerned about Patient privacy and security. Patient data is never shared with outside parties and personal information about patients is protected using industry-standard security measures.

Trusted and Legitimate Platform

Heally is a legit and trusted platform for applying for a marijuana card in California. Heally has a strong reputation and positive customer reviews. Patients can have confidence in the credibility and professionalism of doctors and clinics on the Heally platform.

Licensed Physicians

All of the physicians on the Heally platform are licensed and qualified to recommend MMJ for qualifying medical conditions. Patients can be confident that they are receiving a qualified medical professional's professional evaluation.

Superior Customer Service

Doctors and clinics on Heally offer excellent customer service, with a team of knowledgeable and friendly support agents on hand to help patients with their MMJ card applications. Patients can contact support through Heally for assistance at any time during the process.

Not sure if you qualify? Don't worry, if the doctor does
not approve you, you will get your money back.

FAQ

How do I apply for a California medical card online?

Heally makes it simple. Register with Heally. Visit a certified doctor online — on your schedule. Instantly download your MMJ certification. To apply for a medical marijuana card in California, you can submit all required forms online, including an application, proof of residency, a doctor's recommendation, any caregiver form, and an application fee.

How old do I need to be to get a medical marijuana card in CA?

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a California medical marijuana recommendation. Minors with qualifying conditions can apply through a caregiver.

Does California accept out-of-state MMJ cards?

No, California does not accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards. You need a current medical marijuana card issued by the state of California in order to use marijuana for medical purposes in California.

What are California’s weed laws?

California has legalized both recreational and medical marijuana. Medicinal use is legal for those 18 years of age or older, while recreational use is legal for those 21 and older Medical marijuana is available to those with qualifying conditions who have a valid medical marijuana card.

What is the price of a cannabis card in California?

The cost of a medical marijuana card in California varies by county and depends on whether you participate or not in medical programs. You can get instant access to your recommendation letter and a physical ‘physician-issued’ card for an additional fee.

How do I qualify for a California medical card?

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in California, you must have a qualifying medical condition that can be treated with medical marijuana. These conditions include cancer, chronic pain, anxiety, HIV/AIDS, and more. You must also obtain a doctor's recommendation and apply for the card through the state's medical marijuana program.

What are the qualifying conditions in California?

In California, medical marijuana can be recommended for a wide range of conditions, including AIDS/HIV, arthritis, cachexia, cancer, chronic pain, eating disorders, glaucoma, migraine,severe nausea, persistent muscle spasms, seizures or other conditions as identified by the doctor.

How do I renew my MMJ card in CA?

You can renew your CA medical card online with Heally or in person at the appropriate county Public Health Department. You will need to visit a licensed MMJ physician and pay the fee. This should be done annually.

What are the benefits of a CA MMIC?

While it is not required for you to get a CA MMIC, there are some benefits, including:

No sales tax when purchasing medicinal marijuana
Protection under Proposition 215 and Senate Bill 94
Identifies your ability to possess medical amounts to law enforcement

What are the cultivation laws in California?

With a valid marijuana card in CA, you are legally able to cultivate cannabis at home. The law states you can grow up to six plants at any time, but those plants can only be grown at home in a lockable space that is not visible from off the property.

Read about medical cannabis cards in California

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in California

Learn about qualifying conditions, finding a doctor, and everything else you need to know about getting a medical card in CA.

Do you still need a medical marijuana card in CA?

Read about all the new rules around cannabis and whether you still need a medical card in states like CA that have leagalized recreational use.

Which States Have Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?

Learn about which states have medical marijuana card reciprocity.

Dr. Krasne

This information was reviewed by Dr. Krasne

Dr. Benjamin Krasne is a board-certified anesthesiologist. After attending the University of Florida, Dr. Ben matriculated to the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Krasne completed his residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2017. Since graduating residency Dr. Krasne has worked throughout the United States as a traveling anesthesiologist while providing remote driven out-patient clinical services as well.

Last update: 12/21/2023
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