7 things to know about Washington, D.C.'s medical marijuana program

Washington, D.C.'s medical cannabis program is run by the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration. It has no list of qualifying conditions, and residents 21 and older can self-certify without seeing a healthcare practitioner. Patients 20 and younger need an eight-digit recommendation number from a DC-licensed practitioner. Registration happens online through ABCA's customer portal. Residents get a free two-year digital registration and a 90-day temporary registration they can use right away. Visitors 21 and older can buy a short-term registration or use a card from a state the District recognizes. Patients may buy up to 8 ounces in any rolling 30-day period.

7 things to know

1. Adults 21 and older can self-certify without seeing a healthcare practitioner.
2. Registration is currently free for DC residents and lasts two years.
3. New resident applicants get a 90-day temporary digital registration as soon as they submit.
4. Visitors 21+ can buy a temporary registration lasting 3 to 365 days, or use a recognized out-of-state card.
5. Patients can buy up to 8 ounces in any rolling 30-day period.
6. Dentists and naturopathic physicians are among the practitioners who can issue recommendations.
7. Low-income residents can qualify for discounted medical cannabis products.

At a glance

• State fee: Free (fees currently waived; $10 for a physical card) ($25 standard reduced fee for Medicaid/DC Alliance recipients or households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (registration fees are currently waived for residents))
• Card lasts: 2 years for DC residents; 3 to 365 days for non-residents
• Processing: Residents receive a 90-day temporary digital registration immediately on submitting; the 2-year registration follows staff review
• Patient limit: 8 oz
• Home grow: Not allowed
• Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
• First visit online: Yes

Sources

• ABCA - Medical Cannabis Program
• ABCA - Medical Cannabis Patients
• ABCA - Medical Cannabis Caregivers
• ABCA - Healthcare Practitioners
• ABCA - Medical Cannabis Patient and Facility Fees

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.