How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Washington

Qualifying conditions in Washington

Medical patients receive tax exemptions and higher possession limits (3 oz usable, 48 oz solid, 216 oz liquid, 21g concentrate). May grow 6 plants with authorization. Qualifying: cancer, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, chronic pain, seizures, Crohn's.

How to apply in Washington

  1. 1
    Get a healthcare provider authorization

    Visit a Washington-licensed healthcare provider who can evaluate your qualifying condition and enter your authorization into the state medical marijuana authorization database.

  2. 2
    Obtain your recognition card (optional)

    You can apply for a state recognition card through the Washington DOH, which provides additional legal protections. However, the provider authorization alone allows dispensary purchases.

  3. 3
    Visit a medically endorsed dispensary

    Washington requires dispensaries to be specifically endorsed for medical sales. Bring your authorization and valid ID. Medical patients are exempt from the 37% excise tax.

Official resource

Washington LCB Cannabis

Start with your state's own official program information.

Visit official resource

Costs in Washington

State application fee
Free
Renewal fee
Free
Physician evaluation
$100–$250
Card validity
12 months

Reduced fees may be available. No state registration fee. Authorization card available

Timeline

Get a healthcare provider authorization
1 day
Obtain your recognition card (optional)
30 days
Visit a medically endorsed dispensary
1 day

Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Washington are valid for 12 months. The renewal fee is Free.

Official Washington resources

Questions people in Washington ask

How do I get a medical marijuana authorization in Washington?
Visit an authorized healthcare practitioner for evaluation. If approved, receive a Medical Marijuana Authorization (no state card required). Optional: enter the database at a dispensary for tax exemption and higher limits. Authorization valid 12 months.
What conditions qualify in Washington?
Qualifying conditions include cancer, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, chronic pain, seizures, Crohn's, hepatitis C, intractable pain, nausea, cachexia, and glaucoma.
How much does a Washington medical authorization cost?
No state registration fee. Physician evaluations range $100–$250. Database entry for tax exemption is done at dispensary. Medical patients exempt from 37% combined recreational tax.