Minnesota • MEDICAL CARD GUIDE

How to Get Your Minnesota Medical Marijuana Card

Minnesota has had medical cannabis since 2014 and launched recreational in 2024. A medical card still offers significant tax savings.

Medical patients in Minnesota are exempt from the 10% cannabis tax. Here's everything you need to know to get your card and start saving.

Quick Facts

program status
Active since 2014
card cost
$50 (state fee)
doctor visit
$150 - $250
card valid for
1 year
min age
18+ (minors with caregiver)
out of state
No — MN residents only

Qualifying Conditions

Minnesota has expanded its qualifying conditions significantly since the program launched.

  • Cancer
  • Glaucoma
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Tourette Syndrome
  • ALS
  • Seizures/Epilepsy
  • Severe and persistent muscle spasms (including MS)
  • Crohn's Disease
  • Terminal illness
  • Intractable Pain
  • PTSD
  • Autism
  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea
  • Alzheimer's Disease
  • Chronic Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Any condition approved by the commissioner

Chronic pain and anxiety were added as qualifying conditions. This covers the majority of patients seeking relief.

Finding a Certifying Provider

Minnesota requires certification from a registered healthcare practitioner.

Telehealth Services

$150 - $200

Services like Leafwell and Veriheal offer video appointments with Minnesota-registered practitioners. Convenient and typically fast.

Cannabis Clinics

$175 - $250

Dedicated clinics in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and other cities that specialize in medical cannabis certifications.

Your Healthcare Provider

Regular copay

Any registered practitioner can certify patients. Some primary care providers and specialists have registered.

Tip: Make sure your provider is registered with Minnesota's Office of Medical Cannabis before scheduling.

Application Process

Minnesota uses an online patient registry through the Office of Medical Cannabis.

  1. See a Registered Practitioner

    Book an appointment with a healthcare practitioner registered with Minnesota's medical cannabis program. Discuss your condition and medical history.

  2. Practitioner Certifies You

    If approved, your practitioner enters your certification into the state registry system.

  3. Complete Registration

    Create an account on the Minnesota Medical Cannabis Patient Registry. Complete your patient profile and upload a photo.

  4. Pay the Fee

    Submit the $50 annual registration fee. Financial hardship waivers are available.

  5. Receive Your Card

    Once registered, you'll receive your patient card. This allows you to purchase at medical cannabis dispensaries.

Costs & Fees

Budget $200-$300 total for your Minnesota medical card.

  • Practitioner Certification $150 - $250
  • State Registration Fee $50
  • Financial Hardship Fee may be waived

Total Estimate: $200 - $300

After You're Approved

Your Minnesota medical card gives you access to medical cannabis dispensaries.

  • Exempt from 10% cannabis tax
  • Purchase at age 18+
  • Higher possession and purchase limits
  • Access to medical-specific products
  • Priority at dispensaries

Renewal Information

Minnesota medical cards expire after 1 year. Renewal requires a new practitioner certification and $50 state fee.

Timeline: Start renewal 30-60 days before expiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a medical card worth it now that rec is legal?

For regular users, yes. The 10% tax exemption saves money, and you can purchase at 18+. The card pays for itself within a few months.

Does anxiety qualify?

Yes! Anxiety is now a qualifying condition in Minnesota. Many people qualify under this or the chronic pain provision.

How fast can I get approved?

Typically 1-2 weeks from doctor visit to card. Once your practitioner certifies you, state registration is quick.

Can I grow at home with a medical card?

Minnesota allows home cultivation for adults 21+ (recreational law). Medical card status doesn't affect this.

What products are available?

Minnesota medical dispensaries offer oils, tinctures, capsules, vaporizable products, and topicals. Smokable flower has been added.

Is the program strict?

Minnesota's program was historically strict but has loosened significantly. Qualifying conditions have expanded and the process is easier.