Complete Guide to Getting a Medical Marijuana Card in Michigan

Michigan launched its medical marijuana program in 2008 through the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act, establishing a process for qualified patients to apply for a medical cannabis card. While recreational cannabis is legal in Michigan, there are plenty of benefits to joining the state’s medical marijuana program. Learn more about how to apply for a medical card in Michigan, as well as the requirements, and benefits with our guide.

Qualifications for Medical Cannabis in Michigan

The Cannabis Regulatory Agency manages the state registry, reviews applications, and issues medical marijuana cards to Michigan patients. To be eligible to begin the process, the agency has stated that individuals must be:

• A Michigan resident;
• 18+ years old; and
• Suffer from at least one qualifying medical condition.

How to Apply for a Michigan Medical Marijuana Card [3 Steps]

If you meet the above requirements for a Michigan medical cannabis card, you’re ready to begin the application process! Follow these steps to become part of the state’s Medical Marijuana Registry.

Step 1: Create an Online Account

Before you begin your online application, make sure you have the following items:

• Valid Michigan ID or driver’s license OR
• Valid Michigan voter registration with proof of identity, and
• Credit card or bank account (to pay the application fee)
  
  

Once you have gathered these documents, you can create your online account with the Cannabis Regulatory Agency through the MMMP website. You will also need to pay the application processing fee of $40.

Step 2: Get Certified by Your Healthcare Practitioner

Meet with your healthcare provider to discuss your qualifications for a medical marijuana card. If you suffer from one of the debilitating medical conditions outlined by the state, your practitioner can provide certification. This certification will later need to be uploaded to the Medical Marijuana Registry website, either by the patient or the physician. 

Please note: your healthcare provider must have an online account with the Medical Marijuana Registry. If you are submitting the certification, you will need your physician’s Michigan Medical License Number.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

As soon as you submit the online forms and $40 fee, your application will show as pending approval. If you opted to have your physician approve you online, they will receive a request to upload their certification. Otherwise you are able to upload the certifications yourself. 

Your application will be approved or denied within 15 days of receiving the application. You will then receive your Michigan medical marijuana card or a letter of denial within five days of the application review.

Renewing Your Medical Card in Michigan

Your Michigan medical marijuana card is valid for two years. If you would like to renew your card, it must be within 90 days of the expiration date. The steps to renew your card are the same as initial certification, and all patients will need to pay an additional $40 application fee.

Michigan Medical Marijuana Laws & Information

Every state that offers a medical marijuana program has its own unique set of rules and regulations. If you are a medical patient in Michigan, it’s important to understand the local laws and how they may apply to you.

Purchase Requirements

Medical marijuana patients in Michigan are able to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis products per day from a state-licensed medical provisioning center. However, patients cannot exceed 10 ounces of medical cannabis in a single month. 

Medical Marijuana Sales Tax

Michigan charges a 6% sales tax on all medical marijuana purchases, compared to the 16% sales tax on recreational marijuana purchases.

Medical Cannabis Caregivers

Medical marijuana patients in Michigan can designate one caregiver to assist with medical marijuana consumption and purchasing. Caregivers must also register with the state, although there is no application fee. 

Medical Cannabis for Minors

Michigan allows medical cannabis for minors who qualify, although guidelines are more strict for these patients. In addition to two physician certifications, minors must have a certified caregiver who is also registered with the state.

Michigan Medical Marijuana Card FAQs