Does HIV/AIDS qualify for a medical card in Michigan?
Yes. The Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) lists HIV positive as a qualifying condition. A Michigan-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 Michigan 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 Michigan
- See a Michigan-licensed MD or DO, who completes the Physician Certification after evaluating you.
- To apply online (patients without a caregiver), create an account on the MMMP portal within six months of your evaluation.
- If you have or want a caregiver, mail the full paper Application Packet instead.
- Include proof of Michigan residency (driver's license, state ID or voter registration).
- Pay the $40 fee by card or e-check online, or by check or money order made out to State of Michigan - MMMP.
- Wait for your card or a denial letter, which the agency must issue within 20 business days. Online applicants get a temporary card by email.
Michigan requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $40
- Card lasts: 2 years
- Processing: Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue)
- Patient limit: 2.5 oz of usable marijuana; 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver growing for them
- Home grow: Up to 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver cultivating for them
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full Michigan cost breakdown and Michigan program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Michigan
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Alzheimer's disease
- Arthritis
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Cerebral palsy
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- Nail-patella syndrome
- Nausea & appetite loss
See every qualifying condition in Michigan
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 Michigan provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Michigan?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue).
Can I renew online in Michigan?
In most cases, yes. Cards last two years, and you can renew starting 90 days before expiration. Renewal needs a new physician certification from an evaluation in the last six months and proof of residency. You can renew online if you have no caregiver.
Sources
- CRA - MMMP Patients & Caregivers
- CRA FAQ - What medical conditions are eligible?
- CRA FAQ - How much is the application fee?
- CRA FAQ - When does a patient registry identification card expire?
- CRA FAQ - How long does it take to receive a registry identification card?
- CRA FAQ - Residency requirement
- 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.