How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in California

How to apply in California

  1. 1
    Get a physician recommendation

    Obtain a written recommendation from a California-licensed physician via in-person or telehealth visit.

  2. 2
    Apply through CDPH MMICP

    Submit an online application at the CDPH Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program portal.

  3. 3
    Pay state fee

    Pay $100 application fee ($50 for Medi-Cal) to CDPH and county fee if applicable.

  4. 4
    Receive card

    County health department issues ID card; valid 1 year.

Official resource

California Department of Public Health

Start with your state's own official program information.

Visit official resource

Costs in California

State application fee
$100
Renewal fee
$100
Caregiver application fee
$100
Card validity
12 months

Reduced fees may be available. $50 for Medi-Cal recipients (50% reduction)

Timeline

Receive card
10 days

Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in California are valid for 12 months. The renewal fee is $100.

Official California resources

Questions people in California ask

Do I still need a medical card in California now that adult use is legal?
The medical program was preserved separately when Proposition 64 passed in 2016. A state Medical Marijuana Identification Card remains voluntary, but it carries advantages that adult-use purchasing does not — including sales tax exemption on medical purchases and different possession considerations.