North Carolina Medical Card
Here is what you need to know about obtaining a medical marijuana card in North Carolina.
Keep in mind that medical marijuana has not been fully legalized yet and only allows limited usage.
North Carolina Medical Marijuana Identification (MMID) Card
Be one of the first residents of NC to get your MMID
Update: Senate Bill 711 has been approved by the Senate with a majority vote of 36 to 7 and will now go to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
Highlights of the bill:
- The bipartisan bill was filed on January 25 with sponsorship from Republican Senators Bill Rabon and Michael Lee, and Democratic Senator Paul Lowe.
- The bill aims to legalize the medicinal use of cannabis for patients with specified qualifying serious medical conditions.
- A North Carolina legislative committee approved the North Carolina Compassionate Care Act (Senate Bill 3) to legalize medical marijuana in the state.
- The bill was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee with little debate among senators.
- The bill’s sponsors clarify that it does not legalize recreational marijuana and only seeks to protect patients and doctors from criminal and civil penalties related to medical marijuana use.
- Qualified patients with debilitating medical conditions would have access to medical cannabis.
- Patients can smoke or vape medical cannabis based on their doctors’ recommended form and dosage.
- Physicians would annually review a patient’s eligibility for the medical marijuana program.
- Patients would need to obtain a state medical marijuana identification card.
- The Department of Health and Human Services would establish a secure electronic database to store information about qualified patients, designated caregivers, and physicians.
- Chronic pain patients are not included in the bill’s provisions for medical marijuana use.
If passed, the bill would allow eligible patients, after being evaluated by a doctor, to receive a recommendation for medical cannabis and allow a 30-day supply through authorized retail stores.
Want to be one of the first people in the state to get approved?
Pre-register now and reserve your appointment. There is no cost or risk to pre-register.
Medical Marijuana Card Eligibility in North Carolina
As of May 15th, 2023, the ONLY qualifying condition approved for medical marijuana in North Carolina is intractable epilepsy (epilepsy treatments that do not respond to at least three (3) other treatments first). The treatment must be approved by a state-licensed neurologist.
Only registered medical marijuana patients diagnosed with intractable epilepsy and their caregivers can legally possess low-THC cannabis products for medical use in North Carolina.
Limitations on Medical Marijuana Dispensaries
- House Bill 766 does not provide guidelines for the establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries in North Carolina.
- It does not specify how registered medical marijuana patients can obtain cannabis products.
Restrictions on THC Content
- Registered marijuana patients with intractable epilepsy in North Carolina are limited to buying hemp-derived products.
- These products can only contain a maximum of 0.3% THC.
Out-of-State Purchase and Use
- Registered medical marijuana patients from North Carolina can purchase and use marijuana products in other states that permit cannabis sales to out-of-state patients.
Here Are The Other Proposed Qualifying Medical Conditions Awaiting Approval
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Crohn’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Persistent muscle spasms
- Seizures
- Severe nausea
- Wasting syndrome (cachexia)
Based on recent surveys conducted across the state, 82% of North Carolinians are in favor of legalizing marijuana for medical purposes within the state. Even 75% of Republicans expressed support.
Greenlight Wellness has over 13 years of experience approving over 40K patients in other states.
The Application Process Should Look Similar To These Four (4) Simple Steps:
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment with a Licensed Physician
Find a physician who’s authorized to recommend medical marijuana.
They will review your medical condition and history and explain how medical marijuana may help.
Step 2: Collect the Necessary Documentation
Bring these documents to your appointment:
- Proof of residency (e.g., North Carolina driver’s license or state-issued ID)
- Medical records outlining your qualifying condition
- Written certification from your physician
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once your application is submitted, sit tight and wait for the NCDHHS to review it. If approved, you’ll receive your North Carolina medical marijuana card.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy with a medical marijuana card in North Carolina:
- Access to legal, regulated medical marijuana
- Protection from law enforcement for possessing medical marijuana
- Potential tax savings compared to recreational marijuana users
North Carolina Medical Marijuana Card FAQs
A: No, the state doesn’t currently issue medical marijuana identification cards as of May 15th, 2023
A: No, growing medical marijuana at home is not allowed in North Carolina.
A: Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a medical marijuana card. Minors can obtain a card through a legal guardian or caregiver.
A: The card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. It’s crucial to renew your card before it expires to maintain legal access to medical marijuana.
A: Some states offer reciprocity for medical marijuana cards, meaning they recognize cards from other states. However, the rules vary, so it’s essential to research the specific state’s regulations before traveling with medical marijuana.
A: The availability of medical marijuana products varies, and once the law is approved, we will know the full scope of products available, including:
- Dried flower
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Topicals
- Concentrates
A: The card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. It’s crucial to renew your card before it expires to maintain legal access to medical marijuana.
Potential Process of Renewing Your Medical Marijuana Card
To maintain your access to medical marijuana, remember to renew your card before it expires.
Follow these simple steps:
Schedule an appointment with your physician for a reevaluation.
Obtain a new written certification from your doctor.
Submit a renewal application along with the required fee to the NCDHHS.
Try to stay informed about the state's medical marijuana laws and enjoy the benefits of legal access to medical cannabis.
Tips for First-Time Medical Marijuana Patients in North Carolina
To make your medical marijuana journey smoother, keep these tips in mind:
- Consult with your physician or a knowledgeable dispensary staff member to determine the most suitable product for your needs.
- Start low and go slow. Begin with a low dose of medical marijuana and gradually increase it until you find the most effective dosage for your condition.
- Track your progress and keep a journal to monitor your symptoms, dosage, and any side effects. This information can help you and your doctor refine your treatment plan.
- Educate yourself and stay up to date on the latest medical marijuana research and regulations in North Carolina.
- Choose a reputable dispensary with knowledgeable staff, a diverse product selection, and a commitment to patient education.
- Prioritize safety and always store your medical marijuana products securely and out of reach of children and pets.
The Future of Medical Marijuana in North Carolina
As medical marijuana becomes more widely accepted, North Carolina may continue to update its laws and regulations. Stay informed about any changes to ensure you’re always in compliance and can make the most of your North Carolina medical marijuana card.
