Arizona cannabis laws have been changing for the better. Medical Marijuana use was legalized in Arizona in 2010, and a legalization measure was proposed in 2016. Although that measure was defeated, Arizonans will likely have another chance to legalize it in 2020.
For the moment, however, only state-licensed medical users can legally consume marijuana in the state. Here’s how to get your Arizona medical cannabis card.
Quick Guide to getting your Arizona Medical Marijuana Card
There are three basic steps to getting your Arizona medical card.
- Determine if you have a qualifying condition: Residents of Arizona can qualify for a medical card if they have one of a range of serious medical conditions from cancer to post-traumatic stress disorder, to severe and chronic pain. See the full list below.
- Schedule a medical consultation: You’ll need to visit a medical provider licensed in Arizona. The provider will give you a certification you can use to register.
- Apply: You’ll apply through Arizona’s Medical Marijuana Online Registry System. You’ll need an electronic copy of a valid photo ID, a digital photograph, a certification form from your medical provider, and a signed form called a Patient Attestation. Registering will cost you $150, or $75 for SNAP participants.
Read on for detailed instructions and information.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Arizona
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Determine if you have a qualifying condition
Arizonans can qualify if they have a “chronic or debilitating” condition that causes:
- Severe and chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Severe or chronic muscle spasms
- Cachexia or wasting syndrome;
- Seizures, such as those caused by epilepsy
Several specific conditions also qualify:
- PTSD diagnosed by an MD, licensed counselor, or psychologist
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV or Aids
- Hepatitis C
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Agitation stemming from Alzheimer’s disease
2. Schedule a medical consultation
Arizona’s medical marijuana program permits a wide range of medical professionals to qualify patients, including MDs, osteopaths, naturopaths, and homeopaths. If they’re licensed in Arizona and have a physician-patient relationship with you, they can provide an MMJ certificate.
So what is a “physician-patient relationship?” Essentially, it means that they have to meet with you, look at your medical records and ensure medical cannabis is the appropriate treatment for you, which means that you should obtain your medical records ahead of time.
Keep in mind that not all doctors are comfortable prescribing medical cannabis. We can refer you to an Arizona MMJ doctor and guide you through the whole process to ensure you get your medical card as quickly and easily as possible.
3. Submit an application
Arizona medical cannabis patients can only apply online through the Medical Marijuana Online Registry System.
To do it, you’ll need an electronic copy of a photo ID. Options include:
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- Arizona driver’s license or identification card issued on October 1, 1996, or later
- Arizona registry identification card
- Photograph page in your US Passport.
You can also use an older driver’s license, provided it’s accompanied by additional documentation — either a US birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a citizenship certificate.
You’ll also need a 2″x2″ photo in natural color, and your completed certification from your doctor. Additionally, you’ll need to sign a patient attestation, saying that you won’t share your cannabis with anyone who is not allowed to possess it in Arizona.
Finally, you’ll need to make a payment of $150 with a Visa or MasterCard. ($75 with SNAP)
Once you’ve completed the form, the Arizona Department of Health Services will review it and email you if they need more information. If you’re approved, you’ll get an email notification and receive your card in the mail, which will qualify you as a medical marijuana user for two years.
One thing to keep in mind is that Arizona has pretty specific rules for each attachment. For example, they regulate what size your picture needs to be, the maximum attachment size, and what formats are accepted. It’s a good idea to look at the Qualifying Patient Checklist before submitting your application to make sure your application isn’t delayed due to a minor mistake such as using the wrong file format.
Additionally, Arizona does not have any way to qualify besides their online portal, which can be a significant obstacle to older people, and folks without strong computer skills or regular access to computers. If you need help registering for Arizona’s medical cannabis program, feel free to contact us through our medical form, call us at (650)300-4334, or email at support@getheally.com — we can take you quickly through the whole process, with no charge unless you’re accepted.
