Does cerebral palsy qualify for a medical card in Michigan?
Yes. The Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) lists Cerebral palsy as a qualifying condition. A Michigan-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About cerebral palsy
A group of movement disorders from early brain injury, often with painful spasticity.
Not enough research. Patients mostly use cannabis for spasticity and pain, symptoms where cannabinoids have some evidence in other conditions.
Symptoms Michigan patients most often hope to ease:
- Muscle stiffness and spasticity
- Painful muscle spasms
- Chronic pain in the hips, back or joints
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Irritability linked to discomfort
Before you start. Children and teens have developing brains, and THC exposure may affect learning and mood, so pediatric use needs special care and specialist input. CBD can interact with seizure medicines such as clobazam and valproate and can raise liver enzymes, so blood tests may be needed.
Read more: medical marijuana for cerebral palsy.
How to get certified in Michigan
- See a Michigan-licensed MD or DO, who completes the Physician Certification after evaluating you.
- To apply online (patients without a caregiver), create an account on the MMMP portal within six months of your evaluation.
- If you have or want a caregiver, mail the full paper Application Packet instead.
- Include proof of Michigan residency (driver's license, state ID or voter registration).
- Pay the $40 fee by card or e-check online, or by check or money order made out to State of Michigan - MMMP.
- Wait for your card or a denial letter, which the agency must issue within 20 business days. Online applicants get a temporary card by email.
Michigan requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $40
- Card lasts: 2 years
- Processing: Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue)
- Patient limit: 2.5 oz of usable marijuana; 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver growing for them
- Home grow: Up to 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver cultivating for them
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full Michigan cost breakdown and Michigan program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Michigan
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Alzheimer's disease
- Arthritis
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- Nail-patella syndrome
- Nausea & appetite loss
See every qualifying condition in Michigan
Cerebral palsy in nearby states
- Cerebral palsy in Ohio
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for cerebral palsy?
Helpful records include: a cerebral palsy diagnosis from a physician, such as neurology, pediatric or rehabilitation notes; a list of current medicines, including seizure and muscle relaxant medicines; records of treatments tried, such as baclofen, botulinum toxin, therapy or surgery. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Michigan provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Michigan?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue).
Can I renew online in Michigan?
In most cases, yes. Cards last two years, and you can renew starting 90 days before expiration. Renewal needs a new physician certification from an evaluation in the last six months and proof of residency. You can renew online if you have no caregiver.
Sources
- CRA - MMMP Patients & Caregivers
- CRA FAQ - What medical conditions are eligible?
- CRA FAQ - How much is the application fee?
- CRA FAQ - When does a patient registry identification card expire?
- CRA FAQ - How long does it take to receive a registry identification card?
- CRA FAQ - Residency requirement
- 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.