Does multiple sclerosis qualify in South Dakota?
Yes. The South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program lists Multiple sclerosis as a qualifying condition. A South Dakota-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that damages the protective coating of nerves, causing spasticity, pain, fatigue and bladder problems.
Stronger evidence. The National Academies found substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids improve MS spasticity symptoms as reported by patients.
Symptoms South Dakota patients most often hope to ease:
- Muscle stiffness and spasticity
- Painful muscle spasms, especially at night
- Burning or tingling nerve pain
- Sleep disrupted by spasms or pain
- Overactive bladder
Before you start. Cannabis does not slow MS, so keep taking your disease-modifying therapy as prescribed. Studies have linked regular cannabis use in MS with worse memory and thinking, which matters because MS can already affect cognition.
Read more: medical marijuana for multiple sclerosis.
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
- HIV/AIDS
- Nausea & appetite loss
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
Multiple sclerosis in nearby states
- Multiple sclerosis in North Dakota
- Multiple sclerosis in Minnesota
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for multiple sclerosis?
Helpful records include: an MS diagnosis from a neurologist, ideally with MRI reports; a list of your disease-modifying therapy and symptom medicines; notes on spasticity, pain or sleep problems and how they affect daily life. 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.