7 things to know about Alabama's medical marijuana program

Alabama's medical cannabis program was created by the Compassion Act and is run by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC). Only Alabama residents with one of 16 listed conditions can join. A physician who holds a special state certification to recommend cannabis must diagnose or confirm the condition, set a maximum daily dose, and submit the patient to the AMCC registry, after which the patient pays the card fee. Products are limited to non-smokable forms such as capsules, tablets, tinctures, gummies-style cubes, topicals, patches and inhalers. Raw flower, vapes and food products are not allowed. The first dispensary opened in June 2026.

7 things to know

1. The minimum age for a patient card is 19, not 18.
2. Smokable flower, vapes and edible food products are banned; allowed forms include capsules, tablets, tinctures, lozenges, topicals, patches, suppositories and inhalers.
3. The physician sets a maximum daily THC dose, starting at no more than 50 mg.
4. Telemedicine cannot be used for certification; the visit must happen in person in Alabama.
5. Cards must be renewed every year.
6. Patients and caregivers may not grow cannabis.
7. The first Alabama dispensing site opened on June 4, 2026.

At a glance

• State fee: $40 virtual card or $50 physical card
• Card lasts: 1 year
• Processing: Set by the commission
• Patient limit: No more than 70 daily doses at any time
• Home grow: Not allowed
• Recreational sales: Not legal
• First visit online: No — in person first

Sources

• AMCC - Patient and Caregiver Registration
• AMCC FAQ - How can I get a medical cannabis card?
• AMCC Schedule of Fees, Penalties and Fines (rev. 12/12/2024)
• Ala. Admin. Code Chapter 538-X-2 (Medical Cannabis, rev. 6/14/26)
• Ala. Admin. Code Rule 540-X-25-.09 (Board of Medical Examiners)

This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.