6 things to know about Rhode Island's medical marijuana program
Rhode Island's Medical Marijuana Program dates to 2006. The Department of Health registers patients, while the Cannabis Control Commission now handles caregiver cards and medical home-grow certificates. Residents with a listed debilitating condition get a written certification from a practitioner, which can include a physician licensed in Massachusetts or Connecticut, and then apply to the Department of Health. Since December 1, 2022 there is no application fee for patients, caregivers or authorized purchasers. Cards last one year. Patients can buy from compassion centers or grow up to 12 mature plants with a free home-grow certificate, and the state honors medical cards issued by other states.
6 things to know
- Rhode Island dropped all medical patient and caregiver registration fees on December 1, 2022.
- Physicians licensed in Massachusetts or Connecticut can certify Rhode Island patients.
- Out-of-state medical cards are given the same legal effect as Rhode Island cards.
- Medical home-grow certificates are free and allow up to 12 mature and 12 immature plants per patient.
- Caregivers can help up to five patients and must pass a national background check.
- Adult-use cannabis is legal, but registered patients keep separate protections and higher grow limits.
At a glance
- State fee: $0 (no application fee since December 1, 2022)
- Card lasts: 1 year
- Processing: Cards issued within 5 days of approval; an application not acted on within 35 days is deemed granted
- Patient limit: 2.5 oz of dried usable marijuana (or equivalent), plus home-grown plants under a home-grow certificate
- Home grow: Up to 12 mature and 12 immature plants with a free medical home-grow certificate from the Cannabis Control Commission; grown indoors, maximum 24 plant sets per dwelling
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: Yes
Sources
- Medical Marijuana Program (216-RICR-20-10-3) - RI Department of State
- Caregiver Registration, Medical Home Grows and Personal Cultivation (560-RICR-10-15-1) - RI Department of State
- Medical Marijuana Licensing Information - RI Department of Health
- Medical Marijuana Information for Patients & Caregivers - RI Department of Health
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.