Florida Medical Marijuana Laws: What Patients Need to Know
Florida has established a medical marijuana program that allows eligible residents and seasonal residents to access medical cannabis for certain qualifying medical conditions. The program is regulated by the Florida Department of Health through its Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU).
If you are considering applying for a Florida medical marijuana card, understanding the state's laws and requirements is an important first step. All Natural MD helps patients navigate the medical marijuana certification process and understand what to expect when getting started.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Florida?
Yes. Medical marijuana is legal in Florida for patients who meet the state's eligibility requirements and receive authorization from a qualified physician. Florida's medical marijuana laws are primarily outlined in Florida Statute 381.986.
However, medical marijuana is not legal for unrestricted recreational use under Florida's medical program. Patients must be properly registered, have a valid Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card, and follow their physician's instructions.
Who Qualifies for a Florida Medical Marijuana Card?
To qualify for medical marijuana in Florida, a patient generally must:
- Be a permanent or seasonal Florida resident.
- Be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition.
- Receive an evaluation and certification from a qualified Florida physician.
- Be entered into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry.
- Apply for and obtain a Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card.
Florida law recognizes the following qualifying medical conditions:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Crohn's disease
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Chronic nonmalignant pain
- A terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the physician issuing the certification
- Medical conditions of the same kind or class as, or comparable to, the conditions listed above
A licensed cannabis physician must determine whether a patient meets the state's requirements. Having a condition on this list does not automatically guarantee approval.
Florida Medical Marijuana Card Requirements
Florida requires patients to receive a physician certification before applying for their state medical marijuana identification card.
The process generally involves the following steps:
- Schedule a physician evaluation: Meet with a qualified Florida medical marijuana doctor for an evaluation.
- Receive a physician certification: If the physician determines that you qualify, they can enter your information and certification into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry.
- Complete your state application: Submit your identification and proof of Florida residency through the state registry.
- Pay the state application fee: The current initial or renewal identification card fee is $75.
- Receive your registry card: Once your application is approved, you can access your identification card through the state's registry.
Your physician certification and your state identification card are two separate parts of the process. You need both to legally purchase medical marijuana through Florida's program.
How Much Medical Marijuana Can You Possess in Florida?
Florida places limits on the amount of medical marijuana a qualified patient may purchase and possess. The amount must be authorized by the patient's physician and recorded in the Medical Marijuana Use Registry.
Under current state law, patients generally may not possess more than:
- A 70-day supply of medical marijuana, as authorized by their physician.
- Four ounces of marijuana in a form for smoking, unless the Department of Health has approved a different amount.
Additional limits apply to physician orders for smokable marijuana. Patients should check their registry orders and follow the specific amounts authorized by their physician.
What Types of Medical Marijuana Are Legal in Florida?
Florida's medical marijuana program allows qualified patients to obtain approved cannabis products from licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs).
Depending on the physician's authorization, available product forms may include:
- Medical marijuana flower for smoking
- Vaporized medical marijuana products
- Oils and tinctures
- Capsules and other oral products
- Edibles
- Topical creams and lotions
- Other approved forms of medical cannabis
Patients may only purchase medical marijuana from a licensed Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Center. Growing marijuana at home or purchasing it from an unauthorized source is not permitted under Florida's medical marijuana program.
Where Can You Legally Use Medical Marijuana in Florida?
Having a Florida medical marijuana card does not mean you can use cannabis anywhere.
Florida law restricts medical marijuana use in several locations, including:
- Public places
- Public transportation
- Schools and school grounds, except where specifically authorized by law
- Vehicles, aircraft, and motorboats, subject to limited statutory exceptions
- A patient's workplace, unless the employer permits it
- Enclosed indoor workplaces
Property owners may also establish restrictions on medical marijuana use on their property. Patients should understand these limitations and follow all applicable state and local laws.
Can You Drive With Medical Marijuana in Florida?
Florida's medical marijuana laws do not give patients permission to drive while impaired. Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.
Patients should never drive if medical marijuana affects their coordination, reaction time, judgment, or ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Can You Grow Your Own Medical Marijuana in Florida?
No. Florida does not permit registered medical marijuana patients to grow their own marijuana at home. Only licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers are authorized to cultivate, process, and dispense medical marijuana under the state's program.
Patients must obtain their medical marijuana through an authorized treatment center.
Does Florida Accept Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards?
Florida does not offer medical marijuana card reciprocity. Having a valid medical marijuana card from another state does not automatically allow you to purchase medical marijuana from a Florida dispensary.
Permanent and seasonal Florida residents who meet the state's requirements may apply to participate in Florida's medical marijuana program.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal Under Federal Law?
Although medical marijuana is permitted under Florida law for qualified patients, marijuana remains subject to federal restrictions. Florida's medical marijuana program does not change federal law.
Patients should be aware that traveling across state lines with marijuana can create legal complications, even when they have a valid Florida medical marijuana card.
Get Help With Your Florida Medical Marijuana Card
Understanding Florida's medical marijuana laws is the first step toward determining whether you may qualify for a medical marijuana card. All Natural MD makes the process easier by connecting patients with qualified Florida medical marijuana physicians who can evaluate their eligibility and explain the certification process.
Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you understand what to expect.
Ready to get started? Call All Natural MD Florida at 800-250-6737 or visit our Get Started page to learn more and schedule your appointment.
All Natural MD Florida- Medical Marijuana Doctor Locations:
All Natural MD Florida has medical marijuana physician clinics in the following areas to better serve you in obtaining your medical cannabis card.
FAQ’s: All Natural MD – Florida Medical Marijuana Doctors
Start Your Florida Medical Marijuana Card Process Today
Florida's medical marijuana program provides qualified patients with a regulated pathway to access medical marijuana.
If you have a qualifying condition, the first step is to schedule an evaluation with a qualified Florida medical marijuana physician.
Contact All Natural MD today at (800) 250-6737 to learn more about obtaining your Florida Medical Marijuana Card.