How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Washington State

Washington State has one of the most patient-friendly medical marijuana programs in the country. Unlike recreational cannabis, a medical authorization gives you higher possession limits, access to higher-potency products, and significant tax savings. This guide walks you through every step.

Step 1: Check if you qualify

Washington's qualifying conditions are set by state law (RCW 69.51A.010). The statute names:

• Cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy or other seizure disorder, or spasticity disorders
• Intractable pain — pain unrelieved by standard medical treatments and medications
• Glaucoma, either acute or chronic — increased intraocular pressure unrelieved by standard treatments and medications
• Crohn's disease with debilitating symptoms unrelieved by standard treatments or medications
• Hepatitis C with debilitating nausea or intractable pain unrelieved by standard treatments or medications
• Diseases, including anorexia, that result in nausea, vomiting, wasting, appetite loss, cramping, seizures, muscle spasms, or spasticity unrelieved by standard treatments or medications
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Washington's list is set by state law (RCW 69.51A.010) and is closed — there is no catch-all for conditions it does not name. Several items apply only when symptoms are unrelieved by standard treatments, and whether your situation meets one of them is decided by a licensed provider at an individual evaluation. If you're unsure whether your situation fits, book a consultation — our physicians will give you an honest assessment.

Step 2: Book an appointment

You don't need a referral from another doctor. Simply book online at Green Wellness. Same-day appointments are often available. New patient in-person evaluations are $175 and take 30–45 minutes.

Step 3: Attend your evaluation

Bring a valid Washington State ID or driver's license (required by law). Your medical records are required too, but send them before the appointment rather than bringing them along: an authorization can't be issued without them, and your physician needs to review them ahead of the visit. At the appointment your physician will go over those records with you, conduct a brief medical history review, and perform a physical assessment.

Step 4: Receive your authorization

If your physician determines medical cannabis is appropriate for your condition, you'll receive a written authorization the same day — before you leave the office. This written authorization is valid immediately at any licensed WA dispensary.

Step 5: Optional — register with the WA DOH

While not required, registering in the Washington State Medical Marijuana Authorization Database (MMED) at mmjr.doh.wa.gov provides additional legal protections and raises your possession limits. The registration fee is $1.

Tax savings

Medical cardholders are exempt from Washington's 37% cannabis excise tax AND local sales taxes on DOH-compliant products. Depending on your county, that's up to 47% in total tax savings — potentially thousands of dollars per year through June 2029 (HB 1453).

Annual renewals

Washington State law may require up to 2 visits per year to maintain your authorization. We'll advise you at your appointment on the renewal schedule. Renewal appointments are telehealth-eligible and cost $145.