A Guide to Florida's Medical Marijuana Laws
- Mateo
- Jan 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 9
Florida joined a growing number of states that allow medical marijuana, which is great news for people with certain health conditions. The laws here are meant to make sure patients can get cannabis legally and safely, and that it actually works for them. However, figuring out all the rules can be difficult, especially if you're just starting out. This guide is here to break down Florida's medical marijuana laws and help you understand how to stay on the right side of the rules.
The Legal Framework of Medical Marijuana in Florida
Florida legalized medical marijuana in 2016 through the passage of Amendment 2, also known as the Florida Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative. This amendment allowed patients with qualifying medical conditions to access cannabis as a form of treatment under the supervision of a licensed physician.
The program is regulated by the Florida Department of Health through its Office of Medical Marijuana Use. This office oversees licensing, compliance, and the registration of both patients and caregivers.
Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Florida?
To be eligible for medical marijuana in Florida, a patient must meet the following criteria:
Qualifying Medical Conditions
The state recognizes specific medical conditions, including:
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 related to a qualifying condition
Plus, physicians can recommend medical marijuana for other debilitating conditions of similar severity.
Residency Requirements
Both full-time and seasonal residents of Florida are eligible, provided they can supply proof of residency, such as a Florida driver’s license, utility bill, or lease agreement.
Physician Recommendation
Patients must receive a recommendation from a physician certified by the state to prescribe medical marijuana.
How to Get Your Florida Medical Marijuana Card
Getting a Florida Medical Marijuana Card is an easy process, but it involves a few key steps:
Consult a Certified Physician
The first step is to schedule an appointment with a licensed physician approved by the Florida Department of Health. During this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your medical history and determine whether you qualify for medical marijuana.
Register with the Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR)
If the physician approves your eligibility, they will add your information to the MMUR. This is the official database used by the state to track patients and caregivers authorized to use medical marijuana.
Apply for Your Card
Once your information is in the MMUR, you can submit an application for your medical marijuana card through the OMMU website. The application requires:
Proof of residency.
A passport-style photo.
A $75 registration fee.
Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, the state typically processes it within 10 business days. Upon approval, you will receive your medical marijuana card, allowing you to purchase products from licensed dispensaries. For personalized assistance and to simplify the process, platforms like Leafy Doc Florida offer resources to guide you through getting your medical marijuana card.
Where to Purchase Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana in Florida is only available through licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers. These dispensaries are authorized to grow, process, and sell cannabis products to registered patients. Common products available include:
Flower (smoking cannabis): Legal for medical use in Florida since 2019, cannabis flower remains a popular option.
Tinctures: Concentrated liquid cannabis extracts taken sublingually.
Edibles: Gummies, chocolates, and other edible forms of cannabis.
Topicals: Creams and balms infused with cannabinoids for localized relief.
Vape cartridges: Inhalable cannabis oils designed for vaporization.
Patients should always purchase from licensed MMTCs to ensure they receive safe and regulated products.
