7 things to know about New York's medical marijuana program

New York's Medical Cannabis Program is run by the Office of Cannabis Management, which also regulates adult-use cannabis. There is no fixed list of conditions. A New York certifying provider can certify any condition they think cannabis may help, after an in-person or telehealth visit. The certification includes a registry ID that works right away with government photo ID at a medical dispensary. The state charges no patient fee. Patients can buy up to a 60-day supply, may name up to five caregivers, and, if they are 21 or older, may grow up to six plants at home. Out-of-state patients with their home-state certification and ID may also buy.

7 things to know

1. New York has no fixed list of conditions, so providers use their own clinical judgment.
2. The state charges no fee to become a medical cannabis patient.
3. Certification can happen in person or by telehealth, and the registry ID works immediately.
4. Patients can name up to five caregivers to buy for them.
5. Patients 21 and older may grow 3 mature and 3 immature plants at home.
6. Medical cannabis and home-grow plants may not be taken outside New York State.
7. Provider visits for certification may be covered by Medicaid, but cannabis products are not.

At a glance

• State fee: Free (no fee to become a patient)
• Card lasts: Set by the certifying provider (up to 2 years per OCM's patient page)
• Processing: Immediate - the certification's registry ID can be used right away
• Patient limit: A 60-day supply, or 3 oz of cannabis / 24 g of concentrate if greater
• Home grow: Patients 21+ may grow 3 mature and 3 immature plants; no more than 12 plants (6 mature, 6 immature) per residence
• Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
• First visit online: Yes

Sources

• Patients - NYS Office of Cannabis Management
• Medical Cannabis Program - NYS Office of Cannabis Management
• Medical Cannabis Program FAQs - NYS OCM
• Medical Cannabis Home Cultivation FAQs - NYS OCM

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.