Does HIV/AIDS qualify for a medical card in South Dakota?
Yes. The South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program lists HIV/AIDS as a qualifying condition. A South Dakota-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 South Dakota 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 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
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Multiple sclerosis
- Nausea & appetite loss
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
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 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.