Does HIV/AIDS qualify for a medical card in Arkansas?
Yes. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Program lists Positive status for HIV/AIDS as a qualifying condition. An Arkansas-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About HIV/AIDS
Limited evidence. Limited evidence shows cannabinoids increase appetite and reduce weight loss in HIV/AIDS.
Symptoms Arkansas 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
Read more: medical marijuana for HIV/AIDS.
How to get certified in Arkansas
- Confirm you are an Arkansas resident aged 18 or older and not a member of the National Guard or U.S. military.
- See a licensed physician, in person or by telehealth, who diagnoses a qualifying condition.
- Have the physician complete the ADH written certification form.
- Apply online at the ADH medical marijuana portal and upload the certification and a copy of your Arkansas license or state ID.
- Pay the $50 nonrefundable fee.
- 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
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Alzheimer's disease
- Arthritis
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Fibromyalgia
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- Multiple sclerosis
- Nausea & appetite loss
- Neuropathy (nerve pain)
See every qualifying condition in Arkansas
HIV/AIDS in nearby states
- HIV/AIDS in Louisiana
- HIV/AIDS in Mississippi
- HIV/AIDS in Missouri
- HIV/AIDS in Oklahoma
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for HIV/AIDS?
How long does certification take in Arkansas?
Can I renew online in Arkansas?
Sources
- ADH - Medical Marijuana (overview)
- ADH - Medical Marijuana Registry
- ADH - Medical Marijuana FAQs
- ADH - Qualified Patient Requirements
- ADH - Designated Caregiver Requirements
- 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.