Does epilepsy and seizures qualify in South Dakota?
Yes. The South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program lists Seizures as a qualifying condition. A South Dakota-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About epilepsy and seizures
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures. Some forms, like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, don't respond well to standard medications.
Stronger evidence. The FDA has approved a prescription CBD medicine (Epidiolex) for seizures linked to Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex, based on controlled trials.
Symptoms South Dakota patients most often hope to ease:
- Seizures that continue despite trying two or more medicines
- Side effects such as tiredness and fogginess from seizure medicines
- Poor sleep that can make seizures more likely
- Anxiety about when the next seizure will happen
- Mood and behavior changes linked to epilepsy
Before you start. Never stop or lower your seizure medicines on your own, because this can trigger severe or prolonged seizures. CBD can raise levels of clobazam and increase liver enzyme problems with valproate, and it can raise levels of everolimus used in tuberous sclerosis complex.
Read more: medical marijuana for epilepsy and seizures.
How to get certified in South Dakota
- Confirm you have a debilitating medical condition listed in SDCL 34-20G-1.
- Visit a physician, PA or APRN for an in-person exam and get a written certification.
- Apply online at the Department of Health medical cannabis portal within 90 days of the certification date.
- Upload a copy of your unexpired photo ID and a 2x2 passport-style photo, and name up to two dispensaries and any caregiver.
- Pay $75, or $20 if your household income is under 130% of the federal poverty level, plus $20 if you want to grow at home.
- Wait for review, usually 2 to 4 days, then about 4 to 10 days for the card to arrive by mail.
South Dakota requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $75 ($20 for households under 130% of the federal poverty level)
- Card lasts: Up to 1 year (expiration set by the practitioner)
- Processing: Applications typically reviewed within 2 to 4 days; mailed card arrives in about 4 to 10 days
- Patient limit: 3 oz of cannabis plus product amounts set by Department rules
- Home grow: 2 flowering and 2 non-flowering plants if the card allows cultivation ($20 add-on)
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full South Dakota cost breakdown and South Dakota program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in South Dakota
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Nausea & appetite loss
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
Epilepsy & seizures in nearby states
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for epilepsy and seizures?
Helpful records include: a neurologist's note confirming epilepsy and the seizure type or syndrome; EEG and MRI reports; a complete list of current and past seizure medicines, with doses and side effects. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your South Dakota provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in South Dakota?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Applications typically reviewed within 2 to 4 days; mailed card arrives in about 4 to 10 days.
Can I renew online in South Dakota?
In most cases, yes. Cards must be renewed at least yearly with a new practitioner certification and the full renewal fee. If your practitioner sees you for a follow-up within 60 days of the first certification and issues a second one, the fee is waived once per calendar year.
Sources
- Medical Cannabis Program - South Dakota Department of Health
- Patients, Caregivers & Practitioners - South Dakota Department of Health
- SDCL 34-20G-1 Definitions
- SDCL 34-20G-29 Registry card application and fee waiver
- SDCL 34-20G-43 Expiration of registry identification card
- SDCL 34-20G-5.1 Certification not authorized
- 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.