Illinois vs. Kentucky medical marijuana card: how they compare
Live near the Illinois–Kentucky line? You can only get a card in the state where you live, but here's how the two programs compare.
Side by side
| Illinois | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| First visit online | Yes | In person first |
| State fee | $50 (1 year), $100 (2 years), $125 (3 years) | $25 |
| Card lasts | 1, 2 or 3 years (patient's choice) | 1 year |
| Patient limit | 2.5 ounces of usable cannabis per 14-day period (a provider can request a waiver for more) | A 10-day supply on your person (37.5 g flower, 9.5 g concentrate, or 1,300 mg THC in infused products) and a 30-day supply at home |
| Home grow | Up to 5 plants for registered medical patients | Not allowed |
| Recreational | Legal | Not legal |
| Listed conditions | 49 | 21 |
Residency is what matters
Both programs are for residents. Moving across the line means applying again in your new state — and you can't carry cannabis between them.
Read more
Sources
- IDPH - Medical Cannabis Patient Program
- IDPH - MCPP Registry Card Application Fees
- IDPH - Debilitating Conditions
- IDPH - Medical Cannabis Patient Program FAQ
- IDPH - Qualifying Caregiver Application Instructions
- IDPH - Health Care Provider Certification
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.