How to Register for Your Michigan Medical Marijuana Card Through the MMMP
Reviewed by Dr. Shatha Atiya, PsyD. Updated October 10, 2024
Welcome to the best guide on applying for a medical marijuana card in Michigan!
By the end of this page, you will have the answers to these questions:
- How do I apply for the Michigan medical marijuana card?
- What should I know about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP)?
- What are the Michigan medical marijuana rules?
All the information on this page comes from the official Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) website. So, you can trust you are reading an accurate and up-to-date resource. Let’s get started.
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How to Apply for the Michigan Medical Marijuana Card
You can apply for your Michigan medical card online or via a paper application.
To submit a paper application:
- Download an application packet from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency.
- Print all the documents.
- Fill in all the required information.
- Get copies of your physician certification and proof of Michigan residency.
- To designate a caregiver, get a copy of their Michigan driver’s license or personal ID.
- Pay the $40 government fee for your Michigan Medical Marijuana Card via a check or money order.
- Finally, include all the documents above in a single envelope and mail your application to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP).
The physical application involves a lot of paperwork. And delays are likely. For instance, if you fail to include even one necessary document, you must start all over. In addition, the MMMP may reject your application if you use any whiteout on your registration documents.
You can avoid these potential inconveniences by opting for the online registration.
So, what do you need to apply for your Michigan medical marijuana card online?
First, get in touch with a Michigan medical marijuana doctor who can complete your physician certification. Fortunately, you already have access to the best MMJ doctors in Michigan with Quick Med Cards.
Step 1: Get your Physician Certification
Getting a signed physician certification from a Michigan medical marijuana doctor is the first step when applying for your medical card. And yes, a physician certification is necessary whether you register for your MMMP card online or through a paper application.
Quick Med Cards provides telemedicine appointments with licensed MMJ doctors in Michigan at cheap consultation rates. Also, our customer care team is ready to help you throughout the registration process.
Follow the steps below to get your physician certification in minutes!
1. Create your account with Quick Med Cards.
2. Book your online consultation.
3. Attend your online medical marijuana evaluation via video call.
4. If the doctor approves, they will sign your physician certification.
5. Get your physician certification.
That’s all it takes!
Step 2: Register with the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP)
Now that you have your physician certification, you can apply for your Michigan med card online. Remember, you can only apply online if you are a qualifying adult patient and don’t require a caregiver.
The instructions below explain how to proceed with the online application process.
1. Visit the LARA Registry website (Accela Citizen Access).
2. Create your patient account.
3. Log into your account with your email and password.
4. Navigate to the Registry Cards tab, read the General Disclaimer, and check the acceptance box.
5. Next, click Continue Application.
6. Select the Registry Cards drop-down then choose Patient Only Registry Application.
7. Click Continue Application to proceed.
8. Enter your information as required and ensure you answer all fields marked with a red asterisk.
9. After entering your personal information, you will have the option to upload a copy of your physician certification or have your physician certify you online.
10. Next, upload the required documentation. For instance, your Michigan driver’s license.
11. If you choose for your physician to certify you online, they will receive a notification to complete their portion of your application.
12. Finally, pay for your Michigan medical marijuana card.
And just like that, you are done with your online Michigan medical marijuana card application. Now, you will wait for the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program to review your application. If you followed all the steps, you will get your Michigan medical marijuana card via mail.
How do I check the status of my medical card in Michigan?
One of the many advantages of applying for your Michigan medical card online is that you can check the status of your application online as well.
Ordinarily, the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) has 15 days to review your application from the day you submit it. And waiting approximately three weeks for a response may be nerve-wracking. But not if you registered with the MMMP online.
The steps below detail how you can check the status of your Michigan MMJ card.
1. Navigate to the LARA Registry website (Accela Citizen Access).
2. Log in to your patient registry account with your email and password.
3. Click on the Registry Card tab.
4. At the bottom of the page, you will see the status of your application.
How do I renew my Michigan medical card online?
Renewing your Michigan medical marijuana card online is like a first-time application. And yes, only adult patients without a caregiver can renew their MI med cards online.
Your Michigan medical marijuana card will be valid for two years from the issue date. But you can begin the renewal process 90 days before the expiration date.
Follow the steps below to renew your Michigan medical marijuana card online.
1. Start by obtaining a physician certification from one of our MMJ doctors in Michigan.
2. Visit the LARA Registry website.
3. Create your patient registry account if you don’t already have one.
4. Log into your account with your email and password.
5. Select the Registry Cards tab and click Renew Application.
6. Next, select Continue Application to proceed.
7. If you had a caregiver in your previous registration, you must remove them. Alternatively, you must send a paper application to keep your caregiver.
8. Afterward, enter your personal information and upload the necessary documents.
9. You can upload your physician certification or opt to have our physician certify you online.
10. Finally, pay the $40 fee for your Michigan medical marijuana card.
And you are done! You just renewed your new Michigan medical card.
How much does it cost to renew a med card in Michigan?
It costs $40 to renew your med card in Michigan. And once you pay the state fee, your new medical marijuana card will be valid for two years.
Besides the $40 you spend on your MMMP card, you must also pay for your physician certification. A physician certification from an MMJ doctor in Michigan is necessary to access medicinal cannabis. Quick Med Cards is one of the cheapest providers in Michigan. Our fees for telemedicine appointments range from $45 to a maximum of $149.
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How Minor Patients and Caregivers can Register with the MMMP
There is no age restriction for medical marijuana in Michigan. But qualifying patients below 18 years old can only register with the MMMP with the consent of their parents or legal guardians. Dispensaries in Michigan cannot sell marijuana to minors. So, the minor’s parent or legal guardian must serve as their caregiver.
Sometimes, adult patients may need help with their cannabis treatment. As a result, they can have a caregiver assist them. Caregivers in Michigan can legally buy, possess, and grow cannabis for their patients. But not until they register with the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) and receive approval.
How can a minor get a Michigan medical marijuana card?
Minors in Michigan can get a medical card once the MMMP approves their paper application. And as mentioned earlier, only a minor’s parent or legal guardian can complete the registration. Additionally, the parent or legal guardian must be the child’s caregiver.
The application process is simple.
1. Download the MMMP paperwork from the CRA website.
2. Fill out all the necessary information.
3. Include copies of all the required documents with the MMMP paperwork in a single envelope.
4. Send the application to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program.
Use the checklist below to confirm that your application contains all the must-have documentation.
- Minor application forms from the MMMP.
- Declaration of the person responsible for the qualifying minor.
- Two physician certification forms; signed by different Michigan MMJ doctors.
- Proof of Michigan residency for the caregiver. For example, the parent’s Michigan driver’s license.
- Proof of parentage or legal guardianship document. For instance, the minor’s birth certificate.
- The $40 Michigan medical card fee as a check or money order payable to the State of Michigan- MMMP
How to become a caregiver in Michigan
You cannot apply directly for a Michigan caregiver license on your own. That is the responsibility of the patient you intend to assist with medicinal cannabis.
Qualifying patients in Michigan can designate a caregiver when applying for their medical cards.
So, to become a caregiver in Michigan, your patient should:
1. Accurately fill out the MMMP paperwork.
2. Include all the required documents plus the $40 med card fee (as a check or money order) in a single envelope.
3. Send their application to the Michigan medical marijuana program.
Use the checklist below to ensure that your patient has a complete application.
- Complete MMMP paperwork.
- A physician certification form from a Michigan medical marijuana doctor.
- The patient’s proof of Michigan residency.
- The $40 MMMP card fee. A check or money order payable to the State of Michigan-MMMP.
- The caregiver’s proof of Michigan residency. For example, a Michigan driver’s license or personal ID card.
What if the patient you want to care for already has a Michigan medical marijuana card? Then they can submit an add or change caregiver amendment.
Your patient should send the caregiver amendment with the following documents to the MMMP.
- The patient’s MI driver’s license or personal ID.
- The caregiver’s MI driver’s license or ID.
- A complete add or change caregiver amendment.
Information about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP)
Michigan legalized medical marijuana in 2008 after voters approved the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act. As a result, the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) was set up to implement the contents of the medical marijuana laws.
The MMMP is a state registry of medical professionals, patients, and caregivers participating in the program. Residents ailing from qualifying medical conditions can access safe and reliable medical marijuana products through the program. And doctors can legally recommend medicinal cannabis as a treatment for certain illnesses.
The Michigan Medical Marijuana Program is an arm of the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA). The CRA oversees the production, testing, sale, and licensing of dispensaries in Michigan.
As a direct effort by Michigan voters once more, the state legalized recreational cannabis in 2018.
So, what are the benefits of a medical marijuana card in Michigan if recreational cannabis is already available?
Medical cannabis is distinct from recreational marijuana in potency and quality.
The purpose of medicinal cannabis is to heal and improve the quality of life among those suffering from debilitating illnesses.
Moreover, thanks to medical supervision by MMJ doctors in Michigan, med cardholders can access cannabis products that work for them.
Still in doubt on the usefulness of the Michigan med card and the MMMP? Data from the Cannabis Regulatory Agency shows that as of August 31, 2024:
- There are 90,484 qualifying patients with medical marijuana cards in Michigan.
- 6,572 MMMP-registered caregivers.
- And 60.67% of qualifying patients got their medical marijuana cards to deal with chronic pain.
Michigan Medical Marijuana Rules
With a Michigan med card, you have access to the many benefits of medicinal cannabis. And while it is legal to buy, possess and grow cannabis with a medical marijuana card, there are still several rules you must follow. For instance, you should observe the possession and growing limits. So, by understanding the Michigan medical marijuana rules, you can get the most out of the MMMP.
- Do not exceed the 2.5-ounce possession limit of usable marijuana.
- It is illegal to grow more than 12 marijuana plants.
- Do not transfer your medicinal marijuana to anyone.
- Most importantly, do not sell or distribute your medical cannabis.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan legalized medical cannabis in 2008. As a result, the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) came to be.
- A Michigan cannabis doctor must certify you for medical marijuana, and you must complete an application on the LARA Registry website to get a medical marijuana card.
- The state fee for the Michigan medical marijuana card is $40.
- A Michigan medical card lets you possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis.
Common Questions about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP)
Do you still have questions about applying for a medical marijuana card in Michigan or the MMMP? You might find the answers below.
How do I get an MMMP card in Michigan?
You must get a physician certification and submit a paper or online application to the state marijuana program for an MMMP card.
With an MMJ certification, visit https://michigan.gov/CRAonline and submit your online application. It is worth noting that online registration is only available to adult patients without caregivers; otherwise, you must submit a paper application.
Can you have a CPL and an MMMP card in Michigan?
The answer is, unfortunately, no. Michigan does not prohibit a user of medical marijuana from obtaining a concealed carry permit. However, federal gun laws prohibit users of controlled substances from owning firearms.
And since marijuana is still illegal under federal law, even in states where it is legal for medical use, federal law supersedes state law in this case.
What are the new caregiver laws in Michigan?
Caregivers can serve up to five patients and grow a maximum of 72 plants. In 2021, lawmakers attempted to tighten the caregiver rules through the Michigan Cannabis Safety Act.
The bill sought to make caregivers apply for a specialty medical growers license to keep their 12-plant-per-patient limit. Alternatively, caregivers without a license would be limited to a single patient. To date, Michigan legislators have not passed the bill.
Is there a limit on edibles in Michigan?
The possession limit for edibles in Michigan is 40 ounces of solid marijuana-infused products.
Michigan marijuana laws allow the possession of a maximum of 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana. And 16 ounces of solid marijuana-infused products translates to a single ounce of usable cannabis. So, it will take 40 ounces of marijuana-infused products, such as gummies or infused chocolate, to reach the MI possession limit.
Can you smoke in public in Michigan?
No. Smoking marijuana in public is illegal in Michigan, even with a valid medical marijuana card.
And the same goes for recreational users in the state. So, it is best to consume marijuana on private property to avoid legal issues.
How much is a gram at a dispensary in Michigan?
A gram of medical cannabis flower from a dispensary in Michigan costs about $3, according to the August 2024, Cannabis Regulatory Agency monthly report.
Can you get your medical card online in Michigan?
Yes, you can register for your Michigan medical card online if you are an adult without a caregiver. But first, you must have a physician certification from an MMJ doctor in Michigan.
You can get your physician certification in under 15 minutes with Quick Med Cards. We support telemedicine consultations. So you can get certified after a video call with one of our cannabis doctors in Michigan.
How long does it take to get your medical card in the mail in Michigan?
Depending on the speed of the U.S. Postal Service, you could receive your medical card within a week of submitting your application.
Data from the Cannabis Regulatory Agency shows that in August 2024, the MMMP took less than a day to approve online applications for the Michigan medical marijuana card and less than four days to accept paper applications.
Can you get fired for failing a drug test with a medical card in Michigan?
Unfortunately, yes. Michigan medical marijuana laws do not obligate employers to condone the use of medicinal cannabis. So, it is necessary to understand your workplace policies on drug tests.
Do not consume medical marijuana at the workplace to avoid any issues with your employers. Moreover, do not show up at your place of work while under the influence of marijuana.
Still, your Michigan medical marijuana card could prove beneficial to avoid disqualification from unemployment benefits in the event of a positive drug test.
How do I replace my Michigan medical card?
You can replace your Michigan medical card online or by mail. To replace your med card online, visit the LARA website, log in to your account, and request a replacement.
To replace your card via mail, you must complete and mail the Request Replacement Card Form to the MMMP. Remember to include all the required documentation when you submit your request.
Can you use an out-of-state medical card in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan recognizes out-of-state medical cards.
As a visiting patient, you must provide an unexpired out-of-state medical card and government-issued ID to buy MMJ from Michigan dispensaries. Most importantly, you must follow the Michigan medical marijuana rules, for example, the 2.5-ounce possession limit.
What states accept the Michigan medical marijuana card?
Several states have medical marijuana reciprocity.
Therefore, Michiganders with medical cards can buy and possess medical marijuana in these states.
Also, visiting patients from these states can use their out-of-state medical marijuana cards to purchase MMJ from dispensaries in Michigan.
States that may accept the Michigan medical marijuana card include:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Rhode Island
- Utah
- Washington, D.C.
Can you grow with a medical card in Michigan?
Yes. You can grow 12 marijuana plants in an enclosed facility with a Michigan medical card.
Additionally, MMMP-registered caregivers can grow 12 marijuana plants for their patients. Caregivers who double up as patients can grow up to 72 marijuana plants if they serve five patients.
How much can you spend at a dispensary in Michigan?
There is no limit to how much you can spend on marijuana in Michigan dispensaries. Just as long as you do not exceed the 2.5-ounce possession limit of useable cannabis.
What is the limit you can buy at a dispensary in Michigan?
You can buy at most 2.5 ounces of useable marijuana or its equivalent from dispensaries in Michigan.
For concentrates, Michigan marijuana law caps the limit to 15 grams at one time.
One ounce of usable marijuana translates to:
- Sixteen (16) ounces of infused cannabis in solid form.
- Seven (7) grams of infused cannabis in gaseous form.
- And 36 ounces of marijuana-infused liquids.
Can you get a medical card same day in Michigan?
No. The MMMP requires time to review your application. Afterward, it depends on how quickly the U.S. Postal Service delivers your card. Fortunately, it takes between one and three days for the MMMP to review medical card applications.
A physician certification is necessary to apply for a Michigan medical card. And you can get yours in less than 15 minutes with Quick Med Cards. Since we support same-day appointments and video call consultations, you can get approved for your MI med card quickly.
Can I go to a dispensary before my card arrives in Michigan?
Yes. You do not need a med card to buy marijuana from dispensaries in Michigan if you are an adult aged 21 and over. But you can only buy recreational cannabis.
If you wish to buy medicinal cannabis, you need a Michigan medical marijuana card. Thankfully, the processing time to get a medical card in Michigan is short. Usually, between one and two weeks after you submit your application.
How easy is it to get a medical marijuana card in Michigan?
Getting your medical marijuana card is simple whether you apply online or submit a paper application.
The online application is way faster since you can complete the entire process in one sitting, and it does not involve any paperwork. The paper application may get complicated if you mistakenly omit a required document. Either way, from start to finish, getting a medical card in Michigan is easy.
Does insurance pay for medical marijuana in Michigan?
Insurance does not cover the cost of medical marijuana in Michigan because federal law still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance.
What is the difference between medical and recreational in Michigan?
The main difference between medical and recreational marijuana in Michigan is potency. Medicinal cannabis is more potent since its purpose is to ease the symptoms of chronic illnesses. Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, is for leisure.
Medical marijuana is also cheaper since it is not subject to a 10% excise tax like recreational cannabis. Additionally, medical marijuana is only available to Michiganders with a medical marijuana card. Contrastingly, any adult 21 years and older can access recreational marijuana.
What are the benefits of a Michigan medical marijuana card?
A Michigan medical marijuana card gives you access to medicinal cannabis in the state. The benefits? First, medical cannabis is potent and effective in treating debilitating conditions.
Secondly, medical marijuana is cheaper than recreational cannabis. Also, a Michigan medical card lets you buy and use MMJ in other states with reciprocity.
Patient Resources and Forms
How to Contact the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP)
State Agency: Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Cannabis Regulatory Agency
Phone: 517-284-8599
Email: CRA-MMMPINFO@michigan.gov
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Cannabis Regulatory Agency
Michigan Medical Marijuana Program
P.O. Box 30083
Lansing, MI 48909