Does cancer qualify for a medical card in Washington, D.C.?
Very likely. Washington, D.C. doesn't limit certification to a fixed list — providers can recommend cannabis for conditions they believe it will help. That includes patients with cancer when the provider agrees it's appropriate.
Yes. DC has no qualifying-condition list, practitioners decide when cannabis is appropriate, and adults 21+ can self-certify.
About cancer
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 Washington, D.C. 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
Read more: medical marijuana for cancer.
How to get certified in Washington, D.C.
- If you are 21 or older, decide to self-certify; if you are 20 or younger, get an eight-digit recommendation number from a DC-licensed physician, PA, APRN, dentist or naturopathic physician.
- Create an account on ABCA's customer portal.
- Upload a DC REAL ID, or a government photo ID plus proof of DC residency.
- Add a caregiver if needed (required for minors) and, if eligible, income proof for discounted products.
- Submit the application to receive a 90-day temporary digital registration you can use right away.
- After staff review, receive your two-year digital registration; order a $10 physical card if you want one.
Washington, D.C. allows the evaluation by telehealth, so you can see a Washington, D.C.-licensed provider by video. Our evaluation starts at $79 and is charged only if you're approved.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: Free (fees currently waived; $10 for a physical card) ($25 standard reduced fee for Medicaid/DC Alliance recipients or households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (registration fees are currently waived for residents))
- Card lasts: 2 years for DC residents; 3 to 365 days for non-residents
- Processing: Residents receive a 90-day temporary digital registration immediately on submitting; the 2-year registration follows staff review
- Patient limit: 8 oz
- Home grow: Not allowed
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: Yes
See the full Washington, D.C. cost breakdown and Washington, D.C. program overview.
Cancer in nearby states
- Cancer in Maryland
- Cancer in Virginia
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for cancer?
How long does certification take in Washington, D.C.?
Can I renew online in Washington, D.C.?
Sources
- ABCA - Medical Cannabis Program
- ABCA - Medical Cannabis Patients
- ABCA - Medical Cannabis Caregivers
- ABCA - Healthcare Practitioners
- ABCA - Medical Cannabis Patient and Facility Fees
- 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.