How Do I Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Texas?

by Haley Mills · October 28, 2022

Are you a Texas resident interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card? Check out this page to learn the requirements and how to get started.

how do i get a medical marijuana card in texas

Whether you’re a Texas resident considering applying for the MMJ registry or if you are a current cardholder looking to move to TX, there are steps you can take to secure your medical marijuana prescriptions online. The Texas medical marijuana card process can be done entirely online. 

One will first need to obtain a certification from a licensed physician that they have a qualifying condition. Once certified by a medical professional, patients can go through the application process online, either through the state website or telehealth providers. Read on as we go over the steps to apply, renew, and become a caregiver in Texas. 

The United States and Legal Medical Cannabis

In the United States, medical marijuana programs have been legalized in thirty-six states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Medical marijuana programs allow patients with specified conditions to own, grow and utilize cannabis products to aid in managing their condition, even if recreational cannabis users are not authorized.

Approved requirements vary by state, and many programs will require patience to apply for a medical cannabis card. This process will typically include a consultation and evaluation by a physician. A primary care provider can often suggest it for medical cannabis patients with long-term or chronic conditions.

Medicinal Cannabis Use

Over fifty peer-reviewed medical studies have been conducted on the potential medicinal benefits of cannabis and its many cannabinoids and terpenes. The consensus that emerged from these studies is that cannabis can provide medical benefits for many different conditions.

While most of these studies have focused on the help of the specific cannabinoid CBD, other major and minor cannabinoids, in conjunction with terpenes, show significant promise in treating both physical and mental ailments.

TX Patient Eligibility

A Texas medical marijuana patient must be 18 or older to visit a medical marijuana dispensary. Only those who can prove TX residency can apply for a patient id number and a license for the medical marijuana program (valid state-issued driver’s license, Government ID).

A Texas resident must also have medical history showing a diagnosis that qualifies a doctor to recommend them as a patient that can legally obtain medical marijuana.

Qualifying Conditions in Texas

In 2018, the first sales of low-THC medical cannabis and medical marijuana dispensaries began due to the passing of the Texas Compassionate Use Act.

 The Approved medical conditions include: 

  • Autism
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
  • Cancer
  • Incurable neurodegenerative disorders
  • Intractable epilepsy
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Muscular Spasticity
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Seizure disorders

Steps to Apply for a Medical Card

There are a few steps to get a medical marijuana card in Texas with the help of Leafy DOC. First, you’ll select your State to receive the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Texas medical marijuana card process.

Skip the wait at the doctor’s office and schedule your evaluation from the comfort and convenience of your home. Submit an intake form with a few personal details and a summary of your medical history; then, we’ll help you book an on-demand telehealth appointment or schedule a convenient time for later.

An online recommendation with Leafy DOC starts at 159 USD for new patients and renewals in Texas. There is a money-back guarantee if you are not approved for TX medical use.

Connect with a licensed medical marijuana doctor in minutes and easily chat with your provider on a smartphone, computer, or tablet via phone call or video.

Our licensed physicians will evaluate your qualifying condition, address your questions and concerns, and then provide a recommendation for medical cannabis via email.

Once approved, the recommending physician will register you with the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas. The state will process your application for medical marijuana in Texas, and dispensaries will be able to locate you in the system and dispense your prescription.

Get Approved Today!

Can Leafy DOC help?

Absolutely! Not only can Leafy DOC provide a way to see a doctor via telehealth and obtain your medical card, but we also offer access to knowledgeable and helpful customer support and a personalized health coach that can guide you before and after the MMJ card process.

Our mission at Leafy DOC is to provide a seamless customer experience, educate people about cannabis, and ultimately help people get medical cards quickly and efficiently.

Additional MMJ Card Fees in TX

There is no Texas state fee for completing your medical marijuana application.

The Renewal Process

How do I update my medical card in Texas? It is recommended to renew around a month before the expiration date to have time to complete the renewal appointment and application. Texas medical marijuana certification expires one year after the date on the physician’s recommendation. There is currently no renewing medical marijuana card cost.

How to Apply as a Caregiver

A primary caregiver is an adult over 21 legally allowed to purchase, transport, educate, and administer medical cannabis to medical marijuana patients with a valid medical card.

Over thirty states have legalized medical marijuana programs, allowing caregivers to assist qualified patients. In these locations, state legislation provides legal protection for the patient and the caregiver from criminal penalties. 

Texas law does not currently have an MMJ Caregiver program. Minors can apply for the compassionate use registry with a legal guardian or parent on the application. 

Where to Purchase Medical Marijuana in Texas

Once registered for the Texas Medical Cannabis program and received your ID card, you may wonder what’s next. There is only one way to receive legal medical marijuana in Texas as a qualified patient. Once your details are entered by the recommending physician, your details will be validated by the state. Once approved, you can fulfill your Texas medical marijuana prescription using the preferred dispensary. There is no physical MMJ card in Texas so there’s no need to wait for the mail before use.

Last Updated: January 30, 2024

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