7 things to know about Virginia's medical marijuana program

Virginia's medical cannabis program is overseen by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA). There is no fixed list of qualifying conditions: a Virginia-licensed doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner can certify any diagnosed condition they believe cannabis may help. Since a 2022 law change, adult patients no longer have to register with the CCA; the practitioner's written certification plus a photo ID is enough to buy from a licensed pharmaceutical processor or dispensary. Patients can still pay $50 for an optional registration card. Certifications last up to one year, can be issued by real-time video telehealth, and are now created in the CCA Portal.

7 things to know

1. Virginia has no list of qualifying conditions; the practitioner decides.
2. MDs, DOs, physician assistants and nurse practitioners licensed in Virginia can certify patients.
3. Adult patients have not needed to register with the state since July 2022; registration is optional and costs $50.
4. Certifications can be issued through real-time video telehealth.
5. Dispensaries can sell up to 4 oz of botanical cannabis per patient every 30 days.
6. People who live in Virginia temporarily, such as students, can qualify with a Virginia certification.
7. Adult-use possession and home grow are legal, and the CCA says retail adult-use sales begin July 1, 2027.

At a glance

• State fee: No fee required; optional patient registration is $50
• Card lasts: Certification valid up to 1 year; optional registration renews annually
• Processing: No registry wait — certificate works right away
• Patient limit: No separate medical possession limit stated; adults 21+ may possess up to 1 oz under adult-use law
• Home grow: Not allowed
• Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
• First visit online: Yes

Sources

• Patients, Parents/Legal Guardians, and Registered Agents - Virginia Cannabis Control Authority
• Code of Virginia 4.1-1601 - Certification for use of cannabis for treatment
• Code of Virginia 4.1-1603 - Dispensing cannabis products
• 3VAC10-20-20 - Patient, parent, legal guardian or registered agent registration fee
• Paperless Process Coming for Medical Cannabis Certifications - Virginia CCA
• Virginia Cannabis Control Authority home page

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.