How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia

Reviewed by Dr. Shatha Atiya, PsyD. Updated October 22, 2026

Program   |   Requirements   |   How to Apply   |   Renew   |   Dispensaries   |   Recreational   |   Benefits   |   Laws   |   Takeaways   |   FAQs   |   Resources

We’ve made this guide to help you understand how to apply for a medical marijuana card in Virginia.

By the end of this page, you will have the answers to these questions:

  • What should I know about the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program?
  • How do I apply for a medical marijuana card in VA?
  • What are the reasons to get a medical marijuana card in VA?

We have sourced all the information from the official Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) website. So, you can trust that you are reading an accurate and up-to-date resource.

Related

Looking for a Medical Marijuana Doctor?

Book Appointment

The Virginia Medical Cannabis Program

The Virginia Medical Cannabis Program allows qualified patients to access cannabis for medical use. In addition, it provides information and resources for patients, parents/legal guardians, registered agents, and eligible medical practitioners. The program also offers guidance for existing and prospective pharmaceutical processors.

On January 1, 2024, all statutory and regulatory oversight of the medical cannabis program transitioned from the Board of Pharmacy (BOP) to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA). 

The General Assembly adopted, and the Governor signed into law, the Cannabis Control Act in 2021. This legislation established the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA). The CCA oversees Virginia’s medical cannabis program and regulates cannabis-related activities under state law. The CCA is responsible for developing the regulatory framework for Virginia’s retail marijuana market, with retail sales scheduled to begin July 1, 2027.

Registration is not required for patients to access medical cannabis. A registered agent must register with the CCA if their name is not included on the patient’s written certification.

Virginia Medical Card Requirements & Qualifying Conditions

In Virginia, there are no specific qualifying conditions for a medical marijuana card. You may qualify for medical marijuana in Virginia if you meet these requirements:

  • You are a permanent or temporary resident of Virginia.
  • You have a condition or disease that may benefit from cannabis, as determined by a qualified practitioner.
  • You have a valid government-issued ID.

As mentioned earlier, registering with the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program is not required to access medical cannabis. You can purchase medical cannabis from a licensed dispensary with your marijuana certification and a valid government ID.

Minor Patient Information

Eligible minors in Virginia can get medical cannabis. However, their parents/guardians must consent to the treatment, and they must obtain medical cannabis on the child’s behalf.

Parents or legal guardians can be listed directly on the written certification for a minor. The cannabis certification is valid for 1 year. Additionally, the certification allows the parent/guardian to buy medical marijuana for the qualifying minor.

The parent or legal guardians can designate a registered agent to buy medical cannabis on the minor’s behalf. If the registered agent is not listed on the written certification, they must register with the Cannabis Control Authority (CCA). The initial registration fee is $25, and the annual renewal fee is $25.

Registered Agents

Registered agents play a crucial role in the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program by purchasing or receiving medical cannabis for patients.

The agent doesn’t need to register with the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) before acquiring cannabis if their name is on their patient’s cannabis certification. 

Otherwise, they must register with the CCA and pay a $25 initial registration fee, with an annual renewal cost of the same amount.

A registered agent can’t serve more than two patients.

Medical Marijuana Reciprocity: Does Virginia Accept Out-of-State MMJ Cards?

No. Virginia does not accept an out-of-state medical marijuana card by itself. To purchase medical cannabis from a licensed VA dispensary, you need a valid VA written certification and a government-issued photo ID.

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in VA

Applying for a medical marijuana card in Virginia is easy. The first thing you need is to get a Virginia cannabis certification from a practitioner who is licensed to certify patients for medical marijuana. 

Follow these simple steps to get your medical cannabis certificate in minutes:

  1. Book an appointment with one of our medical marijuana doctors in Virginia.
  2. Attend your marijuana evaluation over a video call.
  3. Receive your written certification after approval.

Quick Med Cards is the cheapest and fastest way to get your medical cannabis certification in Virginia. Once you have your medical cannabis certificate, you can buy medical cannabis from any dispensary in Virginia. However, you can choose to take the extra step and register with the state’s medical cannabis program for a $50 fee.

Here’s how to access your certification in the CCA Portal:

  1. Check your email after your practitioner issues your medical cannabis certification.
  2. Open the certification email and follow its instructions to set up and verify your portal access.
  3. Sign in and select “Print Digital Card” on your dashboard.
  4. Select your certification and choose “Download Digital Card” to save or print it.

You do not need to submit a patient application to access your certification. Registration is only available to add a registered agent when the practitioner did not include one on the certification.

Speak with Our Medical Marijuana Doctor Today

Same-day appointments available.

Book Appointment

How to Renew Your Medical Marijuana Card in VA

Virginia medical cards and cannabis certifications are both only valid for 1 year after issuance. Fortunately, both are easy to renew.

Follow these steps to renew your Virginia medical cannabis certification:

  1. Schedule an appointment with our medical marijuana doctor in Virginia.
  2. Attend your telemedicine appointment over a video call.
  3. If approved, your practitioner will issue your written certification through the CCA Portal and upload a copy to your Quick Med Cards account.

You can use the new certification to purchase medical cannabis from a licensed Virginia dispensary with a valid government-issued photo ID.

Can I Renew With Quick Med Cards if I Used Another Provider?

Yes. You can renew with Quick Med Cards even if you received your previous marijuana certification from another provider. Schedule an appointment with us to get started. Our practitioners can evaluate your condition and issue a new written certification if you qualify.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Virginia

Once you get your medical cannabis certificate, you can visit any dispensary in Virginia and buy your medication. At the dispensary, staff will verify the certification and enter your details into their system. 

New visitors to a dispensary need to provide the following:

  • Valid written certification
  • Current government-issued ID
  • Proof of Virginia residency (if not evident on the ID)

Marijuana dispensaries in Virginia accept electronic certifications. By purchasing cannabis from licensed dispensaries, you receive regulated cannabis products that meet the state’s safety standards.

Where to buy marijuana in Virginia: Dispensary locations

You can buy medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries across Virginia. Current dispensary locations include:

  • Ayr in Carytown, Colonial Heights, Laburnum, Manchester, Short Pump, and Winchester
  • Beyond Hello in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Manassas, Sterling, and Woodbridge
  • RISE in Abingdon, Bristol, Christiansburg, Danville, Lynchburg, and Roanoke
  • Zen Leaf in Hampton, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg

Can you grow marijuana in Virginia?

Yes, you can grow marijuana in Virginia. As of July 1, 2021, home cultivation of cannabis is legal for adults 21 years and older. Individuals can grow up to 4 plants per household at their primary residence, not per person. Growers must:

  • Ensure no plant is visible from public spaces
  • Prevent unauthorized access by anyone under 21
  • Securely tag each plant with their name, driver’s license or ID number, and a note indicating it’s for legal personal use

Recreational Marijuana in Virginia

Virginia legalized recreational marijuana on July 1, 2021, and established the Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) to regulate the cannabis industry. Adults aged 21 and over can possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana in public and grow up to 4 marijuana plants in their primary residence, with no more than 4 plants per household. Additionally, it became legal for adults aged 21 and older to share up to 1 ounce of marijuana with other adults aged 21 and older without payment. 

Despite legalization, several activities remain illegal. For example, adults cannot sell or possess marijuana with intent to sell or unlawfully distribute it. Moreover, using cannabis in public places or driving under the influence of marijuana is prohibited.

Although recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, there are currently no dispensaries in the state selling adult-use cannabis. Virginia’s regulated retail marijuana market is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2027. 

Consequences of Getting a Medical Card in Virginia

Getting certified for a medical marijuana card in Virginia has several benefits and consequences, even now that recreational cannabis is legal in the state.

Benefits

Here is what patients are saying are their reasons for a medical marijuana card in Virginia:

  • Access to dispensaries: Cardholders can buy medical cannabis from any of the 23 medical marijuana dispensaries in Virginia. Recreational users must wait for adult-use sales to commence.
  • Legal protections at work: Virginia cannabis laws protect medical marijuana cardholders from workplace discrimination when they use cannabis oil under a valid written certification. Most employers cannot penalize employees for lawful medical cannabis use, subject to certain exceptions.
  • Higher possession and consumption limits: Medical cardholders can legally buy and possess up to a 90-day supply of cannabis. Recreational users can possess up to 2 ounces of cannabis.
  • Access for patients under 21: Medical marijuana is available to minors with parent or legal guardian consent and adults aged 18 and older. Recreational cannabis is only accessible to those aged 21 and older.
  • Potency and product range: Medical dispensaries offer higher-THC products and a broader range of cannabis tailored to medical needs, which is essential for patients requiring specific strains or doses.
  • Reciprocity: A Virginia medical card is accepted in other states with reciprocity agreements, ensuring continued access to cannabis while traveling.
  • Medical guidance: Licensed practitioners in Virginia provide personalized cannabis regimens based on patients’ needs, offering a structured and supervised approach compared to recreational use.

Drawbacks

While there are positives of getting a Virginia medical card, there are drawbacks to consider:

  • Federal limitations: Federal law prohibits medical marijuana users from purchasing firearms and holding certain jobs, particularly in federal government or transportation, as cannabis remains federally illegal.
  • Costs: Although there is no patient registration fee in Virginia, patients still pay for the doctor’s consultation and medical marijuana certification.

Overall, getting a medical marijuana card in Virginia offers significant advantages that are not available to recreational users. 

Virginia Marijuana Laws

Here is a brief overview of the Virginia marijuana laws:

  • Possession limits: Adults aged 21 and over can possess up to one ounce of cannabis.
  • Usage: Cannabis use is legal in private residences unless restricted by the property owner.
  • Home cultivation: Adults can grow up to 4 cannabis plants per household, not per individual.
  • Adult sharing: Adults over 21 can share up to 1 ounce of cannabis without payment.
  • Age restrictions: It is illegal for anyone under 21 to consume, purchase, or possess cannabis, except for eligible medical cannabis patients with the required certification and parental or legal guardian consent.
  • Sales and distribution: Selling, gifting, or distributing cannabis remains illegal, except as authorized by Virginia law.
  • Driving and public use: Cannabis use is illegal while driving or in public places.

 

Key Takeaways

  • The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority runs the state’s medical cannabis program.
  • A written certification from a qualified practitioner, along with a valid government-issued ID are all you need to access medical marijuana in Virginia.
  • There are no qualifying conditions for a medical card in Virginia. Instead, the certifying cannabis doctor will determine whether your condition may benefit from marijuana treatment.
  • Registration with the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program is not required.
  • The state fee for the Virginia medical marijuana card is $50 annually.
  • There are 24 medical marijuana dispensaries in Virginia.
  • Although recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, there are currently no dispensaries selling adult-use cannabis.

Common Questions about the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program

Do you still have questions about the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program? You may find your answer below.

Is marijuana legal in Virginia?

Yes, marijuana is legal in Virginia for both medical and recreational use. Virginia legalized recreational cannabis in 2021. While medical marijuana has been available in Virginia since 2018 when the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program became operational.

How much does a medical card cost in Virginia?

The cost of a medical marijuana card registration and annual renewal in Virginia is $50 for patients. Parents/legal guardians or registered agents pay $25. These are the state fees for the voluntary registration with the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program.

There is also a cost associated with the consultation for a cannabis certification. Quick Med Cards is the most affordable option in Virginia. We charge between $45 – $149 for a telemedicine consultation for cannabis certification.

What qualifies for medical marijuana in VA?

To qualify for medical marijuana in Virginia, you must be either a permanent or temporary resident of the state. Additionally, a Virginia medical marijuana doctor must certify that your medical condition could benefit from cannabis use.

What are the qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Virginia?

There are no specific qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Virginia.  Instead, a cannabis doctor decides whether a patient’s condition or disease could benefit from medical cannabis. 

The most common conditions treated with medical cannabis include cancer, chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and severe nausea.

What do you need to get a medical card in Virginia?

To get a medical card in Virginia, you must be a permanent or temporary resident of Virginia and have a condition that may benefit from the medical use of cannabis. If you meet these requirements, the next step is getting a written certification from a qualified practitioner.

You’ll need the following documents when getting your Virginia medical cannabis certification:

  • Government-issued ID
  • Proof of Virginia residency if your ID is out-of-state or expired

You do not need to register with the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program or pay an annual state registration fee to access medical cannabis.

    Are there any dispensaries in Virginia?

    Yes, there are 24 medical marijuana dispensaries currently operating in Virginia. However, there are no recreational dispensaries in the state since the Governor vetoed a bill that would have legalized recreational sales.

    What is the limit at a dispensary in Virginia?

    In Virginia, dispensaries can dispense at most a 90-day supply of cannabis to patients every 90 days. Moreover, each cannabis patient can buy no more than 4 ounces of botanical cannabis every 30 days. 

    Can I go to a dispensary without a card in Virginia?

    Yes. You do not need a separate medical marijuana card to buy medical cannabis from a licensed dispensary in Virginia. Patients must present a valid written certification from a licensed cannabis doctor, whether digital or physical, along with a state-issued ID.

    How much is medical marijuana in VA?

    The cost of medical marijuana in Virginia can vary depending on the product type and quantity. Generally, patients pay around $14 per gram for cannabis flower. 

    Additionally, patients in Virginia must obtain a written certification from a registered practitioner, which can cost up to $200, which must be renewed annually for continued access.

    Quick Med Cards is the cheapest option for cannabis certifications in Virginia. We charge $45 – $149 for telemedicine consultations and certifications.

    The state fee for the Virginia medical marijuana card is $50 for patients and $25 for parents/ guardians of qualifying minors and registered agents.

    How many marijuana plants can you grow in Virginia?

    Adults aged 21 and over can legally grow up to 4 cannabis plants per household for personal use in Virginia.

    Can an out-of-state resident get a medical card in Virginia?

    Temporary Virginia residents may qualify for a Virginia medical marijuana certification. However, an out-of-state medical marijuana card alone does not authorize purchases from Virginia dispensaries.

    What states can I use a Virginia medical card in?

    Virginia does not have a separate medical marijuana card. Patients receive a written medical cannabis certification instead. Some states may recognize out-of-state medical cannabis certifications or cards, but each state has its own reciprocity rules and requirements.

    Before traveling, check the medical cannabis laws of the state or jurisdiction you plan to visit to confirm whether it recognizes a Virginia certification and whether visiting patients can purchase medical cannabis.

    How to Contact the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program

    State Agency:
    Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA)

    Phone:
    804-873-5865

    Email:
    medicalcannabis@cca.virginia.gov (for questions about the medical cannabis program)
    info@cca.virginia.gov (general information)

    Address:
    9954 Mayland Drive, Suite 3100
    Richmond, VA 23233

    Website:
    https://www.cca.virginia.gov/