In Florida, purchasing cannabis legally from a dispensary requires adherence to specific regulations established by the state’s medical marijuana program. As of April 2025, recreational use of marijuana remains illegal in Florida; however, individuals with qualifying medical conditions can access cannabis through a structured process.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for medical marijuana in Florida, you must:
- Residency: Be a permanent or seasonal resident of Florida.
- Qualifying Medical Condition: Have a diagnosis of a qualifying medical condition, which includes:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to the ones listed
- A terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the qualified physician issuing the physician certification
- Chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that condition
Steps to Legally Obtain Medical Marijuana
- Consult with a Qualified Physician: Schedule an appointment with a physician who is qualified and registered with the Florida Department of Health to recommend medical marijuana. The physician will evaluate your condition to determine if you meet the criteria for medical marijuana use.
- Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR) Enrollment: If deemed eligible, your physician will enter your information into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry, an online database maintained by the Florida Department of Health.
- Apply for an MMUR Identification Card: After being added to the registry, you must apply for an MMUR Identification Card. This involves submitting an application along with a $75 processing fee to the Florida Department of Health. Applications can be completed online or via mail.
- Obtain Medical Marijuana from a Licensed Dispensary: Once you receive your MMUR Identification Card, you can purchase medical marijuana from a state-licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC). These centers are the only authorized entities to cultivate, process, and dispense medical marijuana in Florida.
Important Considerations
- Renewal: Your MMUR Identification Card must be renewed annually. Renewal applications can be submitted up to 45 days before the card’s expiration date.
- Caregivers: If a patient is a minor or unable to purchase medical marijuana independently, they must designate a caregiver. Caregivers must also apply for an MMUR Identification Card and meet specific requirements set by the state.
- Legal Restrictions: Even with a medical marijuana card, certain restrictions apply. For instance, it is illegal to use medical marijuana in public places or on public transportation. Additionally, driving under the influence of marijuana is prohibited.
- Reciprocity: Florida does not recognize medical marijuana cards from other states. Only patients with a valid Florida MMUR Identification Card can purchase and possess medical marijuana within the state.
By following these steps and adhering to state regulations, eligible patients can legally obtain and use medical marijuana in Florida to manage their qualifying medical conditions.