How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut

Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Connecticut involves a detailed process designed to ensure that only qualifying patients receive access. Here’s a concise guide on how to complete this process:

Consultation with a Certified Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider certified by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection to recommend medical cannabis. Discuss your medical history and the potential benefits of medical marijuana for your condition.

Acquire a Written Certification: If your healthcare provider determines you qualify, they will issue a written certification. This document confirms your medical condition and recommends medical cannabis as a treatment option.

Register With the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: Once you have your written certification, you can apply for a medical marijuana card through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection’s online system. Submit the necessary documentation, including the written certification and proof of Connecticut residency and identification.

Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable fee is required during the application process. Please ensure you submit this payment to avoid processing delays.

Wait for Approval: After submitting your application, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection will review it. If approved, you will receive your medical marijuana card via email.

Visit a Licensed Dispensary: You can legally purchase medical cannabis products from any licensed dispensary in Connecticut with your medical marijuana card. Be sure to present your card and a valid form of identification during each visit.

How Old Must You Be to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut?

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Connecticut, a patient must be at least 18 years old. Minors under the age of 18 can also qualify for a medical marijuana card. Still, they require consent from a custodial parent or legal guardian, who must also be their caregiver throughout the treatment process.

What Are the Qualifying Conditions for Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut?

Connecticut recognizes a wide range of debilitating medical conditions that qualify patients for a medical marijuana card. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection periodically updates and reviews these conditions. Below is a comprehensive list of the qualifying conditions:

• Cancer 
• Glaucoma 
• Positive Status for Human Immunodeficiency Virus or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome 
• Parkinson’s Disease 
• Multiple Sclerosis 
• Damage to the Nervous Tissue of the Spinal Cord with Objective Neurological Indication of Intractable Spasticity 
• Epilepsy 
• Cachexia 
• Wasting Syndrome 
• Crohn’s Disease 
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 
• Sickle Cell Disease 
• Post Laminectomy Syndrome with Chronic Radiculopathy 
• Severe Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis 
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis 
• Ulcerative Colitis 
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Type 1 and Type II 
• Cerebral Palsy 
• Cystic Fibrosis 
• Irreversible Spinal Cord Injury with Objective Neurological Indication of Intractable Spasticity 
• Terminal Illness Requiring End-Of-Life Care 
• Uncontrolled Intractable Seizure Disorder
• Spasticity or Neuropathic Pain Associated with Fibromyalgia 
• Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis 
• Post Herpetic Neuralgia 
• Hydrocephalus with Intractable Headache 
• Intractable Headache Syndromes 
• Neuropathic Facial Pain 
• Muscular Dystrophy 
• Osteogenesis Imperfecta 
• Chronic Neuropathic Pain Associated with Degenerative Spinal Disorders 
• Interstitial Cystitis 
• MALS Syndrome (Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome) 
• Vulvodynia and Vulvar Burning 
• Intractable Neuropathic Pain that Is Unresponsive to Standard Medical Treatments 
• Tourette Syndrome 
• Chronic Pain of at least six months duration associated with a specified underlying chronic condition refractory to other treatment intervention 
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Associated with Chronic Pain 
• Chronic Pancreatitis 
• Movement disorders associated with Huntington’s Disease 

What Is the Cost of a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut?

As of July 1, 2023, the state of Connecticut has eliminated the registration fees for both medical marijuana patients and caregivers. Previously, patients had to pay a $100 annual registration fee, while caregivers paid $25 annually. 

Can I Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut for Free?

While the state has eliminated the registration fees, patients will still need to cover the cost of the medical consultation to obtain their medical marijuana card. This means that receiving a medical marijuana card in Connecticut is not entirely free, but it is more affordable than before due to the removal of the registration fees.

Do I Need to See a Doctor in Person for Medical Marijuana Card Evaluation in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, you do not necessarily need to see a doctor in person for a medical marijuana card evaluation. The Connecticut Medical Marijuana Program allows for telehealth consultations, meaning you can have your assessment conducted via a virtual appointment with a certified healthcare provider. This option makes the process more accessible and convenient for patients.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut?

After the online appointment, you will receive written certification from the licensed medical practitioner. Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Connecticut typically takes about 30 days after the certification.