Some states have legalized the use of marijuana to treat chronic pain and diseases. Obtaining medical marijuana status and staying out of legal trouble is still a thorny area, so follow these steps and avoid trouble.
Warning
Pot is illegal under federal law in the U.S. and in many states and other countries. You may be subject to legal ramifications for possession and/or consumption of marijuana.
Step 1: Research state laws
Research your state’s laws to determine under what circumstances medical marijuana is legal for use as a medical treatment, if any.
Tip
Talk to a legal professional to fully understand how the law is being applied in your area. States with medical medical marijuana laws include California, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Vermont, and Montana.
Step 2: Obtain proof of medical condition
Obtain proof of your medical condition by getting a copy of your medical record.
Step 3: Get doctor approval
Consult your physician. If they agree your condition is treatable with medical marijuana, get them to write a prescription.
Tip
If the doctors you’ve seen aren’t open to the idea of marijuana as a treatment method, search for pro-legalization organizations that can direct you to a sympathetic care provider.
Step 4: Obtain application
Obtain the appropriate application forms from your state and county governments.
Step 5: Complete registration
Fill out the necessary paperwork and provide documentation to complete an application for medical marijuana status in your state. Submit it with any applicable registration fees that are required.
Step 6: Get approval
Wait for your application to be approved and to receive your official medical marijuana license. Once you have it, be sure to use your status responsibly and in accordance with the law.
Did You Know?
As of 2010, 14 states in the U.S. had approved medical marijuana for certain uses by qualifying people: Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.
