Conditions · New Hampshire

Does chronic pain qualify in New Hampshire?

Yes. The Therapeutic Cannabis Program (TCP) lists Moderate to severe chronic pain as a qualifying condition. A New Hampshire-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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire

  1. Ask a provider you have an established relationship with to certify you, after an in-person exam; any New Hampshire provider with prescribing authority can do it.
  2. Have the provider complete the Written Certification form; signatures are valid for 6 months.
  3. Fill out the Patient Application (or the Minor Patient Application for anyone under 18).
  4. Add proof of New Hampshire residency and a $50 check or money order payable to Treasurer - State of NH.
  5. Mail the packet to DHHS - TCP, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301, or use the drop box at that address.
  6. Your card arrives by mail within about 3 weeks; show it with photo ID at any Alternative Treatment Center.

New Hampshire requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $50
  • Card lasts: 1 year standard; the provider may set up to 3 years
  • Processing: Card mailed within 3 weeks of a complete application; an incomplete-application notice is sent within 10 days
  • Patient limit: 2 ounces at any one time (patient and caregiver combined)
  • Home grow: Not allowed
  • Recreational sales: Not legal
  • First visit online: No — in person first

See the full New Hampshire cost breakdown and New Hampshire program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in New Hampshire

See every qualifying condition in New Hampshire

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 New Hampshire provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in New Hampshire?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Card mailed within 3 weeks of a complete application; an incomplete-application notice is sent within 10 days.

Can I renew online in New Hampshire?

In most cases, yes. Renewal uses the same forms and $50 fee as a new application, and proof of residency is not needed if your address has not changed. A certification issued for less than 3 years may instead be extended by the same provider, up to 3 years in total.

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