Obtaining a medical marijuana (MMJ) card in Jacksonville, Florida, is a straightforward process that allows qualified patients legal access to cannabis for therapeutic use. The process is overseen by the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU), and patients must meet specific eligibility criteria before they can begin legally purchasing medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Florida, patients must be either permanent or seasonal residents. They also need to be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition by a state-certified physician. Common qualifying conditions include:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- PTSD
- ALS
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic nonmalignant pain
- Terminal illness (as diagnosed by another physician)
- Comparable debilitating conditions
A complete list is available through the state’s official health resources, but patients can also consult with a licensed MMJ physician for guidance.
Step 2: Schedule a Physician Evaluation
The next step involves scheduling an appointment with a physician who is registered with the OMMU to recommend medical marijuana. During the visit, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history and evaluate whether they meet the criteria. If approved, the doctor enters the patient’s details into the state’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR).
Step 3: Apply for Your MMUR ID Card
Once your physician has submitted your recommendation into the registry, patients must apply for their official medical marijuana card. The application requires:
- Proof of Florida residency (a valid Florida ID or utility bill for seasonal residents)
- A passport-style color photograph
- A $75 processing fee
The application can be submitted online or by mail. Online submissions tend to be processed more quickly, often within 7–10 business days.
Step 4: Receive Approval
After review, patients typically receive an email confirmation and a temporary MMJ card that allows for immediate purchases at dispensaries. A physical card will follow shortly in the mail.
Ongoing Requirements
- Renewals: MMJ cards are valid for one year. Patients must submit a renewal application and payment at least 45 days before the expiration date.
- Physician Re-Evaluation: Patients are required to be re-evaluated by their certifying physician at least once every 210 days to maintain eligibility.
- Caregivers: Patients needing assistance, such as minors or the disabled, may appoint a caregiver, who must also register with the state.
Where to Go
Jacksonville residents can visit licensed MMJ clinics such as DocMJ, Green Health, or The Sanctuary to schedule their evaluation and begin the process. These facilities specialize in medical cannabis certifications and will help guide patients through the necessary steps.