In states where medical marijuana has been approved for specific use it is still important to know the law and understand the potential issues with obtaining the card. Under federal law marijuana is an illegal drug, it is only through some local state laws that medical marijuana is allowed, which can pose concerns for individuals that are travelling to different jurisdictions or areas. Getting your card requires submitting an application, including information about your medical condition and treatment options recommended by your physician, and obtaining approval. It should be noted that the law is in a constant state of flux and this article can provide no legal advice and is simply a guideline.

States Offering Medical Marijuana Cards

In the United States there are only 14 states that have laws in place for the use of medical marijuana. Currently, these states include Maine, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, Hawaii, Colorado, California, Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, New Mexico, Oregon, Michigan and Washington. Each state also has its own registration system with slight variations and differences with regards to the application process.

Tip 1 – Know Your State Laws

One of the most important aspects of obtaining a medical marijuana card is to first do some research into your state laws regarding the application for the card. These laws are typically available online for review, often with a section of Frequently Asked Questions to help you understand the specific issues included within the statute. In addition to providing information on what you need to complete the application, the state law information will also be up to date on what the application fee is for the card. These application or registration fees are typically less than $100, often with a lesser amount for those receiving Medicaid, SSI or SSD.

Tip 2 – Talk to Your Physician

Most states require detailed information on your medical condition, treatment options and the reason that medical marijuana is recommended on the application. This information typically must be completed by your regular attending physician. Individual states may also require a medical release form that allows the reviewers of the application to have complete access to your medical records to determine if you meet the criteria for the card. Often physicians are aware of the requirements of the state; however it is still in your best interests to also do your research. In most areas the doctor will not actually prescribe marijuana since it is not considered a recognized pharmaceutical drug. In these situations the doctor will report a recommendation for the use of medical marijuana, which is not the same as a prescription and so it can be denied by those reviewing the application.

Tip 3 – Complete the Application Completely and Accurately

As can be expected, any inaccurate information or missing information is only going to end up delaying the application. In most situations if the information is reported falsely, especially if any criminal charges are omitted from the application, the application can be denied. Re-applications after a denial are possible when information is omitted by accident, but when there are discrepancies it is much more difficult to obtain a medical marijuana card.

Not everyone that applies for a medical marijuana card, even with a doctor's recommendation, will be accepted and provided with the legal option to use cannabis as a medical treatment. Make sure that you understand the types of illnesses and conditions that quality for the use of cannabis prior to the application for the best possible outcome.

It should be noted that this article is for information purposes only and should not, under any circumstances, be accepted as legal advice.