How to Get a Pennsylvania Medical Cannabis Card

The Process at a Glance

Getting a Pennsylvania medical cannabis card involves four steps: creating a registry account, seeing an approved physician, paying the $50 state fee, and receiving your digital card. The entire process can be completed from home if you use telehealth.

Step 1: Create a Registry Account

Start by creating an account on the PA Medical Marijuana Registry Portal. You will need:

• A valid Pennsylvania driver's license or state-issued ID
• Your name, date of birth, and contact information
• A working email address

Creating the account is free. You will receive a patient ID number that you'll provide to your physician.

Step 2: See a DOH-Approved Physician

Schedule an appointment with a physician who is registered with Pennsylvania's Medical Marijuana Program. The physician must be a licensed MD or DO who has completed the DOH's required 4-hour training course. There are currently 1,901 approved practitioners across the state.

Telehealth Is Permitted

Since Act 44 of 2021, physicians can certify patients via telehealth video consultation. This means you can complete your evaluation from home — no in-person visit required. Most telehealth evaluations:

• Cost $75–$199 (physician fee, separate from the state card fee)
• Take 10–20 minutes
• Can be scheduled online, often with same-day or next-day availability

What to Bring to Your Appointment

• Your registry patient ID (from Step 1)
• Medical records documenting your qualifying condition (prescriptions, diagnoses, treatment history)
• If using telehealth: a device with a camera and internet connection

The physician will review your medical history and, if you have a qualifying condition, will certify you electronically through the DOH's system. The certification appears in your registry account.

Patients must be certified by a practitioner who is registered with the Department of Health and has completed a 4-hour training course on the medical use of marijuana.

PA Department of Health

Step 3: Pay the $50 State Fee

After your physician submits the electronic certification, log back into the registry portal and pay the $50 annual card fee online.

Fee Assistance Program: $0 for Qualifying Patients

Step 4: Receive Your Card

• Digital card: Available in your registry account in approximately 7 business days after payment
• Physical card: Mailed to your address within 1–3 weeks

Your digital card is valid at all Pennsylvania dispensaries. Simply show it on your phone along with your government-issued ID at the dispensary.

Total Cost Breakdown

Some physicians offer lower renewal pricing for returning patients. Combined with zero sales tax on all purchases, the card pays for itself quickly for regular consumers.

Annual Renewal

Your medical card is valid for one year. To renew, you must:

1. Obtain a new physician certification (telehealth is accepted for renewals too)
2. Pay the $50 renewal fee ($0 with Assistance Program)
3. The DOH issues an updated digital card

Start the renewal process at least 30 days before expiration to avoid gaps in access.

Caregivers

If you need someone to purchase cannabis on your behalf, you can designate a caregiver. Requirements:

• Must be 21 or older
• Must be a Pennsylvania resident
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Must pay a $50 registration fee

Caregivers are especially important for minor patients, who require a parent or legal guardian to serve as their caregiver.

After You Get Your Card

Once you have your card, you can:

• Purchase medical cannabis at any of Pennsylvania's ~150 dispensary locations
• Buy up to a 90-day supply (192 units maximum)
• Pay zero sales tax on all purchases
• Access workplace protections under § 10231.2103

Contact the DOH

For questions about your application, card status, or the registry:

• Phone: (888) 733-5595
• Portal: padohmmp.custhelp.com
• DOH Medical Marijuana Program

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