Conditions · Arizona

Does HIV/AIDS qualify for a medical card in Arizona?

Yes. The Arizona Medical Marijuana Program lists HIV positive status as a qualifying condition. An Arizona-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.

About HIV/AIDS

HIV infection and AIDS, including wasting, nausea and neuropathy.

Limited evidence. Limited evidence shows cannabinoids increase appetite and reduce weight loss in HIV/AIDS.

Symptoms Arizona patients most often hope to ease:

  • Poor appetite and unwanted weight loss
  • Nausea, including from medicines
  • Burning or tingling nerve pain in the feet and hands
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Anxiety and low mood
Before you start. Some antiretroviral regimens, especially those boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat, can raise THC levels and make effects stronger. CBD can affect liver enzymes that process some HIV medicines, so tell your HIV doctor before starting.

Read more: medical marijuana for HIV/AIDS.

How to get certified in Arizona

  1. Download the ADHS Medical Marijuana Physician Certification form.
  2. Visit an Arizona-licensed MD, DO, naturopathic or homeopathic physician who reviews 12 months of records and examines you.
  3. Have the physician complete and sign the certification form within 90 days of your application.
  4. Create an account on the ADHS licensing portal and upload the certification, a current photo, your Arizona ID and the signed patient attestation.
  5. Pay the $150 fee, or $75 if you receive SNAP benefits.
  6. Print or save your card once ADHS approves the application.

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

Costs and timeline

  • State fee: $150 ($75 for SNAP recipients)
  • Card lasts: 2 years
  • Processing: Usually within 2 weeks
  • Patient limit: 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana
  • Home grow: 12 plants in a locked facility, only if no dispensary was within 25 miles when you were authorized
  • Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
  • First visit online: Yes

See the full Arizona cost breakdown and Arizona program overview.

Other qualifying conditions in Arizona

HIV/AIDS in nearby states

Frequently asked questions

Do I need medical records for HIV/AIDS?

Helpful records include: records confirming your HIV diagnosis from your HIV care provider; your current antiretroviral regimen and other medicines; notes on symptoms such as weight loss, appetite changes, nerve pain or nausea. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Arizona provider will tell you if more is needed.

How long does certification take in Arizona?

The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Usually within 2 weeks.

Can I renew online in Arizona?

In most cases, yes. Cards are renewed every two years. The renewal opens 90 days before expiration and needs a new physician certification, photo and attestation plus the same fee as a new card.

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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