California Medical Marijuana Card

Updated on January 28, 2019. Medical content reviewed by Dr. Richard Koffler, MD, Board Certified Physiatrist

California Medical Marijuana Card

As per California medical marijuana law, the state Department of Public Health established a voluntary medical cannabis ID system, to issue medical marijuana cards (also referred to as cannabis cards, pot cards, or marijuana cards), to qualified patients with a doctors recommendation. California’s medical marijuana law was amended with Senate Bill 420, adding additional protections, to the Compassionate Use Act.

The Medical Marijuana Program (MMP) provides a voluntary medical marijuana identification card and registry program, to qualified patients and their caregivers. The registry system allows for the validation and verification qualified patients, or caregiver’s, medical marijuana status. A medical marijuana card authorizes the patient or caregiver to use, possess, cultivate, transport, and/or use, medical marijuana. While it is advisable, it is NOT mandatory for patients to obtain a Medical Marijuana Identification Card, in order to receive the full legal protection, of California’s Medical Marijuana law.

Finding a Physician

With more and more practices opening in California, it’s easier than ever for patients to get a medical marijuana card. Patients can use our database of certified physicians to find a local doctor or utilize our telemedicine services to start talking to a physician right away. Our list is always growing to accommodate the patient base in California, so check back regularly for data about physicians closeby.

In compliance with The Compassionate Use Act of 1996, we would like to include the following statement:

“NOTICE TO CONSUMERS: The Compassionate Use Act of 1996 ensures that seriously ill Californians have the right to obtain and use cannabis for medical purposes where medical use is deemed appropriate and has been recommended by a physician who has determined that the person’s health would benefit from the use of medical cannabis. Recommendations must come from an attending physician as defined in Section 11362.7 of the Health and Safety Code. Cannabis is a Schedule I drug according to the federal Controlled Substances Act. Activity related to cannabis use is subject to federal prosecution, regardless of the protections provided by state law.”

MarijuanaDoctors.com to the Rescue

When you work with us at MarijuanaDoctors.com, you’ll have access to:

- A Nationwide Network of Caring Physicians – We maintain a large database of strictly vetted physicians who are certified to practice in the Golden State. These physicians are easily accessible by appointment as well as online through the Telehealth portal. What this means is that we can get you connected to a highly-qualified physician at the click of a mouse, making the process much easier for you. Our portal also helps doctors manage their appointments more effectively, preventing the need for patients to endure long waits at the doctor’s office for an appointment.
- Resources Just a Click Away – State regulations require patients to present a written certification from a qualified physician when applying for a California marijuana card. Rather than having to traverse the area looking for this documentation, our online portal puts all the resources you need at your fingertips.
- Virtual Doctor Visits Made Easy – When you’re ready for follow-up visits, you don’t need to leave the comfort of your home. The Telehealth portal replaces the need to physically visit a doctor with an online appointment that is just as insightful for the patient and the doctor.
- Rigorous Vetting – The physicians in our portal are the very best at what they do. This is because we are very cautious about the professionals we work with. These physicians are vetted rigorously to ensure they can provide compassionate health care with the utmost consideration for your condition. They also uphold the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality, ensuring your medical records are sealed and secure.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in California

Patients are advised to obtain legitimate medical records or documentation from their primary care physician describing the diagnosis of their qualifying condition — *Learn how to request your medical records
To qualify, a California patient needs to be diagnosed by a physician as having one of the following medical conditions that are identified by the law:
Patients are required to obtain a signed Physician’s Statement from a physician, currently licensed to practice medicine in California — *Find a certified medical marijuana physician in California
Once a patient has obtained a written certification from a physician licensed in the state of California, patients are required to register with the California Department of Public Health, Public Health Policy and Research Branch, Medical Marijuana Program Unit.
To register, complete the Application/Renewal Form CDPH 9042
Submit the application form to your country health department (addresses listed below), along with the following
1. A government-issued photo identification card
2. Proof of county residence, such as a rent/mortgage receipt, utility bill, or motor vehicle registration
3. Written documentation from your doctor recommending the use of medical marijuana
4. Application fee (varies by county – see below)
Upon registration, patients will receive a medical marijuana I.D. card.

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How to Contact California’s County’s Medical Marijuana Program

A

Alameda County

Alameda County Public Health Department
1000 Broadway, Suite 310
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 268-2977
Business Hours:
By Appointment Only

Alpine County

Health and Human Services
75-B Diamond Valley Road
Markleeville, CA 96120
(530) 694-2146
Business Hours:
Monday, 1pm – 4:30pm
Wednesday, 1pm – 4:30pm
Friday, 1pm – 4:30pm
By Appointment Only

Amador County

Amador County Public Health Department
10877 Conductor Blvd., Suite 400
Sutter Creek, CA 95685
(209) 223-6407
Business Hours:
Thursday, 1pm – 4pm

CA Marijuana Card