Does autism spectrum disorder qualify in Texas?
Yes. The Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP) lists Autism as a qualifying condition. A Texas-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About autism spectrum disorder
A developmental condition; some patients have severe irritability, aggression or self-injury.
Limited evidence. Small studies of CBD-rich products report less irritability and better sleep in some children, but controlled trials are few.
Symptoms Texas patients most often hope to ease:
- Severe irritability, aggression or self-injury
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Anxiety and sensory overload
- Repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily life
- Seizures, which are more common in autism
Before you start. CBD can raise blood levels of some seizure medicines, especially clobazam, and can raise liver enzymes when taken with valproate. Cannabis can add to sleepiness from antipsychotics such as risperidone or aripiprazole and from other sedating medicines.
Read more: medical marijuana for autism spectrum disorder.
What Texas allows
Texas does not issue medical marijuana cards. Instead, the Texas Compassionate Use Program, overseen by the Department of Public Safety, lets physicians registered in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) prescribe low-THC cannabis to permanent Texas residents with listed conditions. The patient does not register or pay the state; the doctor enters the prescription in CURT and a licensed dispensing organization fills it. House Bill 46, effective September 1, 2025, added chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, Crohn's and other IBD, and terminal illness or hospice and palliative care, redefined low-THC as up to 10 mg of THC per dose, and allowed vaporized products when medically necessary. Smoking remains prohibited.
Don't bring cannabis into Texas from another state — crossing state lines with it is a federal offense.
Other qualifying conditions in Texas
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
- Terminal illness & hospice
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Autism spectrum disorder in nearby states
- Autism spectrum disorder in New Mexico
- Autism spectrum disorder in Oklahoma
- Autism spectrum disorder in Arkansas
- Autism spectrum disorder in Louisiana
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for autism spectrum disorder?
Helpful records include: a diagnostic evaluation or letter confirming autism spectrum disorder from a developmental pediatrician, psychologist or psychiatrist; a full list of current medicines and supplements, including any seizure medicines or antipsychotics; notes from therapists or teachers describing the behaviors, sleep or anxiety you want to address. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Texas provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Texas?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. No state card to wait for.
Sources
- H.B. 46 (89R) Enrolled Version - Texas Legislature Online
- H.B. 46 (89R) Bill Analysis - Texas Legislature Online
- Compassionate Use Program - Cannabis & the Law - Texas State Law Library
- Patients FAQ - Texas Department of Public Safety
- 89th Legislation - Texas Department of Public Safety
- National Academies — The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
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.