7 things to know about Maryland's medical marijuana program

Maryland's medical cannabis program is run by the Maryland Cannabis Administration. Patients register through the state's OneStop portal, then get a written certification from a provider registered with MCA, such as a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, dentist, podiatrist or nurse-midwife. Since July 1, 2024, registration has been free and a plastic ID card is optional at $25. Adult-use cannabis is also legal, but registered patients buy tax-free, can buy products reserved for patients, and may possess the amount their certification allows. Qualifying conditions include severe or chronic pain, PTSD, and any severe chronic condition where other treatments have not worked.

7 things to know

1. Patient registration has been free since July 1, 2024, and the plastic ID card is optional.
2. After approval, patients get an electronic ID document by email.
3. Patients buy tax-free, while adult-use buyers pay sales tax.
4. Dispensaries must reserve higher-potency products, such as concentrates over 1 gram and edibles over 100 mg THC per package, for patients.
5. The standard 30-day supply is 120 grams of flower or 36 grams of THC, and providers can certify more or less.
6. Dentists, podiatrists and nurse-midwives can register as certifying providers, along with physicians, NPs and PAs.
7. Each patient may have only one certifying provider at a time.

At a glance

• State fee: Free registration; optional plastic ID card $25 (Card fee waived for Maryland Medicaid and VA Maryland Health Care System enrollees; minor and hospice patients get cards free)
• Card lasts: Certification must be renewed with a provider assessment within each 365 days
• Processing: Patient ID often same day
• Patient limit: The amount in the patient's written certification (standard 30-day supply is 120 g of flower or 36 g of THC)
• Home grow: Adults 21+ may grow up to 2 plants per household under the adult-use law
• Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
• First visit online: Yes

Sources

• MCA - Patients
• MCA - Adult Patient Registration
• MCA Guidance: Medical Patients, Caregivers, Etc. (June 2024)
• MCA - Certifying Providers
• MCA - Provider FAQ
• COMAR 14.17.04.03 - Written 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.