Getting STARTED
Washington DC offers a straightforward process for obtaining medical cannabis for both DC residents and non-DC residents, including domestic and international visitors. With the ability to register online and purchase from licensed dispensaries, patients have access to a range of cannabis products for medical purposes. This guide outlines the steps to register, eligibility criteria, and other important details for both DC and non-DC residents.
Medical Cannabis for DC Residents
Eligibility
DC residents, including adults and minors, can apply for a medical cannabis patient registration. Individuals aged 21 and older have the option to self-certify without the need for a healthcare provider’s recommendation, simplifying the process. Minors or those aged 18–20, however, must include a healthcare recommendation number in their application.Registrations for DC residents are valid for six years from the date of issuance, and fees are waived until November 28, 2024.
How to Apply
DC residents can apply online, in person, by mail, or via email. To apply online, residents can use the Adult Medical Cannabis Patient Application and select the self-certification option for adults 21 and older. For in-person visits, applicants may visit the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) office at 2000 14th Street NW, Suite 102A, Washington DC, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.Parents or guardians applying for minor patients (17 and under) must submit a Minor Medical Cannabis Patient Application, which requires a healthcare recommendation number. Applications for minors must be submitted in person, by mail, or via email to ABCA.CannabisInfo@dc.gov.
Temporary and Permanent Registration
Online applicants will receive a temporary digital registration that allows them to purchase medical cannabis for up to 30 days while their application is being reviewed. If approved, they will receive a permanent digital registration. In-person applicants receive their permanent registration immediately if their application is approved.
Physical Cards
Patients may use either digital or physical registrations at licensed dispensaries. A physical card is available upon request for a $10 fee. To request a physical card, applicants must select "Card Request" on the application and pay the fee once a payment link is provided.
Renewing or Cancelling a Registration
Renewing a registration follows the same process as applying. To cancel a registration, residents can email the patient's name, date of birth, and registration number to ABCA.CannabisInfo@dc.gov.
Medical Cannabis for Non-DC Residents
Non-DC residents, including domestic and international visitors, can purchase medical cannabis in Washington DC through two primary methods: temporary registration or reciprocity.
Reciprocity
Reciprocity allows non-DC residents with a valid medical cannabis registration from participating U.S. states or territories to purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries in DC. Patients from states such as California, Florida, Maryland, New York, and others are eligible for reciprocity. A full list of eligible states and territories is available through the DC medical cannabis program. Virginia patients must provide a written certification from a healthcare provider along with valid identification to use DC dispensaries starting April 2024.
Temporary Registration
For those without reciprocity, non-DC residents can apply for a temporary patient registration to access medical cannabis. This registration allows them to purchase cannabis for a specific period, ranging from 3 to 365 days. Temporary registrations are processed online and can be completed within minutes, granting immediate access to cannabis upon approval.
How to Apply for Temporary Registration
To apply for a temporary registration, non-DC residents must complete a brief online registration form, self-certifying that their cannabis use is for valid medical purposes. Upon submission, applicants will receive an email with a payment link. Once the payment is processed, the digital registration will be issued via email. The entire process, including payment, can take less than 10 minutes.
Valid Periods and Fees
Non-DC residents may select from the following valid registration periods:
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3 days
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30 days
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90 days
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180 days
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365 days
View Patient Fee and Renewal Schedule.
*There is no fee for reciprocity, and temporary registration fees depend on the selected valid period.
Important Notes
Digital and physical registrations are accepted at all licensed dispensaries.Temporary registrations are issued immediately, allowing for purchases while applications are under review.Physical card requests require a $10 fee. If applicants wish to cancel their registration, they can do so by emailing their name, date of birth, and registration number to ABCA.CannabisInfo@dc.gov.
Conclusion
Whether you're a DC resident or visiting from out of state, obtaining medical cannabis in Washington DC is an accessible and streamlined process. With the option for self-certification and temporary registrations, patients can quickly gain access to the products they need from licensed dispensaries. Be sure to follow the appropriate application steps and choose the registration period that suits your needs. For more information on DC medical dispensaries along with their locations and product reviews check out our DC Medical Marijuana page or scroll down to see our list of the best DC medical dispensaries below.