If you’re a Florida resident dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, or another qualifying medical condition, you might be eligible for a medical marijuana card. Also known as a medical card in Florida, this state-issued ID allows patients to legally purchase, possess, and use medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about obtaining a medical card in Florida in 2025 — including eligibility requirements, the application process, costs, and legal protections.
What Is a Medical Card in Florida?
A Florida medical card is a license issued by the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). It proves that you’re registered in the state’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry and authorized to purchase medical cannabis legally.
Florida legalized medical marijuana through Amendment 2 in 2016, allowing patients with certain conditions to access cannabis for therapeutic use.
Who Is Eligible for a Medical Card in Florida?
To qualify for a medical card in Florida, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Be a Florida Resident
You must provide proof of permanent or seasonal residency. Acceptable documentation includes:
- Florida driver’s license or state ID
- Lease agreement or utility bill (for seasonal residents)
- Passport or out-of-state ID plus two proofs of Florida residence
2. Be 18 Years or Older
Patients must be at least 18 years old. Minors can qualify with the help of a parent or legal guardian and two physician approvals.
3. Have a Qualifying Medical Condition
According to Florida law, the following conditions may make you eligible for a medical card:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- PTSD
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain (related to a qualifying condition)
- Terminal illness (diagnosed by a physician)
- Medical conditions comparable to those above, as determined by a qualified physician
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Medical Card in Florida
The process for getting a medical card in Florida is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment With a Certified Marijuana Doctor
Only a state-certified medical marijuana physician can evaluate your condition and determine your eligibility. Florida maintains a list of licensed doctors on the OMMU website.
During your visit:
- Discuss your medical history
- Present any supporting medical records
- The doctor will decide if your condition qualifies
Once approved, the physician enters your information into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry.
Step 2: Register With the Medical Marijuana Use Registry
After the doctor adds you to the registry, you’ll receive an email with a link to complete your application online. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A scanned copy of a valid Florida ID (or acceptable seasonal resident documents)
- A digital passport-style photo
- A $75 application fee (paid online)
You may also mail in a paper application, but online processing is faster.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
The Florida Department of Health typically processes applications within 7–10 business days. You’ll receive an email confirmation once approved.
You can begin purchasing medical cannabis as soon as you’re approved — even before the physical card arrives — by using your temporary email approval and a valid photo ID.
How Much Does a Medical Card in Florida Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the expected costs:
| Item | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Initial physician evaluation | $150 – $250 |
| OMMU application fee (annually) | $75 |
| Follow-up visits (every 210 days) | $75 – $150 |
Total first-year cost ranges from $225 to $400 depending on the doctor you choose.
Where Can You Buy Medical Marijuana in Florida?
Once approved, you can visit any licensed medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) in Florida. These dispensaries are regulated by the state and offer various cannabis products, including:
- Flower (smokable marijuana)
- Vape cartridges
- Tinctures
- Edibles
- Topicals
- Capsules
Popular dispensary chains include:
- Trulieve
- Surterra Wellness
- Curaleaf
- Fluent
- MÜV
- Liberty Health Sciences
Each dispensary may offer different product lines, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
Legal Protections and Limitations of a Florida Medical Card
A medical marijuana card in Florida comes with both rights and responsibilities. Here are some key legal points to understand:
What You Can Do
✅ Purchase cannabis products from licensed dispensaries
✅ Possess up to 2.5 ounces of smokable flower every 35 days
✅ Use medical marijuana in a private residence
✅ Travel within Florida with medical cannabis (do not cross state lines)
What You Cannot Do
❌ Grow your own cannabis at home (Florida law prohibits this)
❌ Share your medicine with others
❌ Use marijuana in public or in a vehicle
❌ Take marijuana across state or federal borders
Remember: Medical marijuana is still illegal under federal law, so using it on federal property (like airports or national parks) can lead to legal issues.
Renewing Your Medical Card in Florida
Florida medical cards are valid for one year. However, you must also visit your certifying doctor every 210 days (roughly every 7 months) to remain eligible for purchases.
Renewal Process:
- Log in to the Medical Marijuana Use Registry
- Update any expired documents
- Pay the $75 renewal fee
- Wait for approval
It’s recommended to apply for renewal at least 30 days before your card’s expiration date.
Can You Get a Medical Card in Florida Online?
Yes — at least partially.
While the physician evaluation must be done in person for the initial appointment, many doctors now offer telehealth appointments for the 210-day follow-ups. The actual state registration process is fully online.
Several reputable providers help streamline the process, including:
- Veriheal
- Leafwell
- CannaMD
- Marijuana Doctor
Benefits of Having a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida
Getting a medical card in Florida offers several significant benefits:
1. Legal Protection
You’re protected from criminal penalties for marijuana possession if used under medical guidance.
2. Access to Regulated Products
Medical dispensaries offer lab-tested, high-quality cannabis products tailored for therapeutic use.
3. Tax Savings
Medical marijuana is not subject to Florida’s sales tax, which recreational cannabis would likely incur if legalized in the future.
4. Physician Guidance
Cardholders benefit from professional medical advice tailored to their condition.
Is Florida Moving Toward Recreational Marijuana?
As of 2025, recreational cannabis remains illegal in Florida, though there is growing support for legalization.
Several advocacy groups are pushing for a 2026 ballot initiative to legalize adult-use marijuana. If passed, it could change the landscape — but for now, a medical card is the only legal route to access cannabis in Florida.
FAQs About Medical Cards in Florida
Can I Use My Florida Medical Card in Another State?
Some states offer medical marijuana reciprocity, but Florida does not currently have formal agreements. Always check the laws of the state you’re visiting.
What Happens If I Lose My Card?
You can request a replacement through the OMMU for a $15 fee. Log in to your registry account to begin the process.
Can My Employer Fire Me for Using Medical Marijuana?
Unfortunately, yes. Florida employers are not required to accommodate marijuana use, even for medical purposes. Use caution and consult your HR department.
Can I Own a Gun and Have a Medical Card in Florida?
Federal law prohibits firearm ownership for marijuana users, regardless of state law. This remains a gray area, and you should speak with a legal expert before applying if gun ownership is a concern.
Final Thoughts: Is a Medical Card in Florida Worth It?
Absolutely. For many Floridians, a medical marijuana card is a life-changing solution for chronic health conditions that haven’t responded to traditional treatment.
With straightforward eligibility, increasing physician access, and expanding dispensary options, there’s never been a better time to explore your medical cannabis options in Florida.
If you’re ready to take the first step, schedule an appointment with a licensed medical marijuana doctor and begin your journey toward relief, naturally and legally.
Looking for help getting your medical card in Florida? Contact us today, and we’ll connect you with a certified physician near you and guide you through the process step by step.
