Conditions · Hawaii

Cancer and medical marijuana in Hawaii: do you qualify?

Yes. The Hawaii Medical Cannabis Registry Program lists Cancer as a qualifying condition. A Hawaii-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About cancer

Cancer and its treatment — chemotherapy, radiation, surgery — can cause pain, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss and trouble sleeping.

Stronger evidence. The National Academies found conclusive evidence that oral cannabinoids prevent and treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. There is not enough evidence that cannabis treats or cures cancer.

Symptoms Hawaii patients most often hope to ease:

  • Nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy
  • Loss of appetite and unwanted weight loss
  • Cancer-related pain
  • Burning or tingling nerve pain from chemotherapy
  • Trouble sleeping
Before you start. CBD can affect liver enzymes that process some chemotherapy and targeted drugs, so your oncology team must know about any cannabis you use. A few small studies have raised questions about whether cannabis use may affect how well immunotherapy works, which is worth discussing with your oncologist.

Read more: medical marijuana for cancer.

How to get certified in Hawaii

  1. Create an account on the state's online medical cannabis registry portal.
  2. See a Hawaii physician or APRN (in person or by telehealth) who establishes a bona fide relationship with you.
  3. Your provider submits a written certification of your qualifying condition through the registry.
  4. Complete your patient application, including caregiver and grow-site details if you plan to grow.
  5. Pay the $38.50 application fee online.
  6. Once approved, download or print your 329 card and use it at licensed dispensaries.

Hawaii allows the evaluation by telehealth, so you can see a Hawaii-licensed provider by video. Our evaluation starts at $79 and is charged only if you're approved.

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $38.50
  • Card lasts: 1 year (up to 3 years if the provider states the condition is chronic)
  • Processing: Often within days online
  • Patient limit: Up to 4 ounces of usable cannabis (shared between patient and caregiver)
  • Home grow: Up to 10 plants (mature or immature) per patient at a registered grow site
  • Recreational sales: Not legal
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Hawaii cost breakdown and Hawaii program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Hawaii

Cancer in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for cancer?

Helpful records include: pathology or imaging reports confirming your cancer diagnosis; recent notes from your oncologist describing your stage and current treatment plan; a full list of medicines, including chemotherapy, anti-nausea drugs, pain medicines and blood thinners. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Hawaii provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Hawaii?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Often within days online.

Can I renew online in Hawaii?

In most cases, yes. Patients re-apply through the online registry before their card expires, with a new provider certification and another $38.50 fee. Cards for chronic conditions may be issued for up to three years.

Sources

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.

Keep reading

See if you qualify in two minutes

  • One short online form
  • A video visit with a licensed doctor
  • From $79, only if approved
Check if I qualify — free