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Conditions · Arkansas

Does chronic pain qualify for a medical card in Arkansas?

By MyMMJRx Editorial Team · Updated · 5 min read

Yes. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Program lists Intractable pain that has not responded to ordinary medications, treatment or surgery for more than six months as a qualifying condition. An Arkansas-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About chronic pain

Chronic pain is pain that persists beyond normal healing time, usually defined as more than three months. It can follow an injury or surgery, come from nerve damage (neuropathy), or travel with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or endometriosis.

Stronger evidence. The National Academies found substantial evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for chronic pain in adults. Most trials looked at neuropathic pain and measured modest reductions in pain scores, and many patients use cannabis to cut back on other medications.

Symptoms Arkansas patients most often hope to ease:

  • Persistent aching or burning pain
  • Nerve pain such as tingling, shooting or electric sensations
  • Pain that keeps you from sleeping
  • Muscle tension and spasms
  • Side effects or limited relief from current pain medicines
Before you start. Combining cannabis with opioids, benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, sleep medicines or alcohol can cause dangerous drowsiness. CBD can change blood levels of medicines processed by the liver, including warfarin and some seizure and pain medicines.

Read more: medical marijuana for chronic pain.

How to get certified in Arkansas

  1. Confirm you are an Arkansas resident aged 18 or older and not a member of the National Guard or U.S. military.
  2. See a licensed physician, in person or by telehealth, who diagnoses a qualifying condition.
  3. Have the physician complete the ADH written certification form.
  4. Apply online at the ADH medical marijuana portal and upload the certification and a copy of your Arkansas license or state ID.
  5. Pay the $50 nonrefundable fee.
  6. Allow up to 14 days for review, then print your card once approved.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $50
  • Card lasts: Up to 1 year (shorter if the physician specifies)
  • Processing: Up to 14 days from receipt of a complete application and payment
  • Patient limit: 2.5 ounces
  • Home grow: Not allowed
  • Recreational sales: Not legal
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Arkansas cost breakdown and Arkansas program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Arkansas

See every qualifying condition in Arkansas

Chronic pain in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for chronic pain?

Helpful records include: medical records that describe the cause or diagnosis of your pain, such as imaging, specialist notes or a pain clinic summary; a list of treatments you have tried, including medicines, physical therapy, injections or surgery; notes on how long the pain has lasted and how it affects your daily life. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Arkansas provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Arkansas?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Up to 14 days from receipt of a complete application and payment.

Can I renew online in Arkansas?

In most cases, yes. Renewal opens up to 60 days before your card expires and requires a new physician certification and another $50 fee.

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.

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