New York Medical Marijuana FAQs

Are you considering applying for a New York medical marijuana card but have questions about the process?

To help you make an informed decision, here is a list of New York residents’ most frequently asked questions about the use, possession, and sale of medical cannabis.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Medical Card in New York?

Though marijuana is legal for recreational use in New York, there are still many benefits to getting a medical certification, including lower costs and higher possession limits.

If you purchase cannabis regularly, you can save thousands of dollars with a medical card since recreational cannabis is taxed at nearly double the rate that medical cannabis is in New York.

Medical cardholders in New York are permitted to possess a two-month supply of cannabis products, but recreational users are capped at 3 ounces of dry flower or 24 grams of cannabis concentrate.

Currently, medical cannabis cardholders are allowed to cultivate cannabis at home. While this has been approved for all New York residents over 21, home-growing will not technically be allowed for recreational users until 2024. So the ability to grow at home is yet another perk reserved for medical cardholders.

What Are the Requirements To Get a Medical Card in New York?

You must be at least 18 and have a doctor’s recommendation to be eligible for a medical cannabis certification in New York.

How Old Do You Have To Be To Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New York?

Patients must be 18 or older to obtain a medical marijuana card in New York without a caregiver. Patients under 18 can still qualify for a medical cannabis certification, but they must have a registered caregiver over 21.

What Conditions Qualify for a Medical Card in New York?

New York does not have a list of qualifying conditions, so it is up to your doctor to decide if cannabis is an appropriate treatment for your medical condition.

Where Do I Go To Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New York?

You can get a medical marijuana card online through Leafwell. There’s no need to leave the house; just click here to start the process and connect with a doctor near you.

Can You Get a New York Medical Card Online?

Yes, telehealth is allowed for medical cannabis certification in New York.

Leafwell can help you obtain a medical marijuana card from the comfort of your home using our convenient and efficient telehealth services. We connect you with a licensed physician in your state and walk you through the application process so that you can access medical cannabis in a few easy steps.

How Much Does a Medical Card Cost in New York?

It costs $99 to get your medical cannabis certification through Leafwell with a money-back guarantee! There is no state fee.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New York?

The total process can take as little as a few minutes or up to 48 hours but ultimately depends on your healthcare provider. Patients must register as medical cannabis patients to finish the application process after meeting with their doctor to get their recommendation.

According to the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), as of 03/20/2023, physical Registry ID cards are no longer being issued in New York. Patient certifications will contain a registry ID number to be used with a government-issued photo ID to purchase medical cannabis products.

Can I Walk Into a Dispensary Without a Card in New York?

You can walk into recreational dispensaries without a medical card and purchase cannabis products, but you must have a medical marijuana certification to shop at medical dispensaries.

Since there are only a few recreational dispensaries operating in New York at this time, it will be far easier to access cannabis with a medical card due to the number of medical dispensaries serving patients across the state.

How Do I Start My New York Medical Marijuana Card Renewal?

You can renew your medical marijuana card quickly and easily through Leafwell. Contact our customer support team to start your renewal process.

How Do I Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in New York?

To become a medical marijuana caregiver in NY, you must be at least 21. A certified patient must then designate you as a caregiver on their registration. Finally, you’ll need to fill out the designated caregiver registration form.

Can You Get a Medical Card With a Felony in New York?

Yes, you can apply for a medical marijuana card if you have a felony in New York.

Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in New York?

Recreational marijuana is legal in New York. However, obtaining your medical cannabis certificate is still beneficial since the adult-use industry is new and remains inaccessible to many New Yorkers.

Plus, obtaining a medical certification can save you money in the long run. Contact Leafwell to apply for your medical certificate today.