Getting a Florida medical cannabis card in Jacksonville is a straightforward process once the steps, eligibility requirements, and regulations are understood. This beginner-friendly guide walks through each stage—from the initial physician visit to receiving approval—so new patients can feel confident navigating the process.
1) Confirm Eligibility
Florida law requires that patients be diagnosed with a qualifying condition by a physician authorized to certify medical cannabis use. Qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, terminal illnesses, comparable conditions, and chronic pain linked to a qualifying condition. The physician records the diagnosis and approved methods of use in the state’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR).
2) Establish Residency
Full-time Florida residents typically use a Florida driver license or state ID as proof of residency. Seasonal residents—common in Jacksonville—can also qualify if they live in Florida for at least 31 consecutive days per year, maintain a temporary residence, and provide acceptable documents such as utility bills or a statement from a property owner. Minors follow similar proof requirements through a parent or legal guardian.
3) Visit a Qualified Physician
The first actionable step is scheduling an in-person evaluation with a Florida-qualified physician who has completed the state’s training program. During the visit, the physician assesses the patient’s medical history and determines if cannabis is an appropriate treatment option. If approved, the physician creates the patient’s profile in the MMUR, specifies dosing routes such as inhalation, oral, or topical, and issues the certification. Many clinics assist patients in completing their online MMUR applications before they leave.
4) Apply for the Card Online
After being entered into the MMUR, patients log in to submit their application to the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU). This includes uploading proof of residency, a passport-style photo (or using the photo from a Florida driver license), and paying the $75 state fee. Renewals can be submitted 45 days before expiration.
5) Temporary Approval
Once the OMMU approves a complete application, the patient receives an email granting temporary approval to purchase medical cannabis from licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs). This email functions as proof of eligibility until the physical card arrives by mail.
6) Purchase and Supply Limits
Florida law enforces strict purchase limits. Patients may possess up to a 70-day supply of non-smokable products with route-specific milligram caps, a 35-day supply for smokable flower, and no more than 4 ounces of flower at any time. Exceptions can be requested by the physician and approved by the state.
7) Renewals and Recertifications
Medical cannabis cards are valid for one year and must be renewed annually through the MMUR. Physician certifications generally require renewal every 210 days. Patients should set reminders to renew their card and schedule follow-up visits with their certifying physician before expiration to avoid interruptions in access.
8) Usage Rules
Even with a medical cannabis card, patients cannot consume cannabis in public places, on public transportation, or in other prohibited areas. Only the registered patient—or their certified caregiver—may legally possess and use the prescribed cannabis.
For Jacksonville residents new to the process, preparation is key. Bringing relevant medical records, discussing treatment goals with a qualified physician, and exploring local MMTC options can make the transition into medical cannabis use smoother and more effective.