Alternative Wellness

Arkansas Medical Marijuana FAQ

General Information

Where can I read the Medical Marijuana Amendment?

You can view the amendments here: 

https://healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/data-statistics-registries/medical-marijuana/


Patient Application & ID Cards

What documents and forms are required to apply for a Medical Marijuana ID card?

To apply, you must submit:

  • A completed patient registry application form.
  • A Physician Written Certification.
  • A photocopy of your Arkansas-issued driver’s license or state ID (on a full sheet of paper).
  • The non-refundable application fee.

How long is my Medical Marijuana ID card valid?

Your ID card is valid for up to one year from the issue date. If your physician specifies a shorter period, your card will reflect that duration.

When can I renew my ID card?

You can renew your card up to 60 days before the expiration date.

What is required for renewal?

Renewals require the same documents as new applications:

  • Patient registry application form.
  • A new Physician Written Certification (previous certifications are not valid for renewals).
  • A photocopy of your Arkansas-issued driver’s license or state ID.
  • The non-refundable application fee.

How long does it take to process my renewal application?

Renewals may take up to 14 days to process. Incomplete or incorrect applications will be returned, causing delays.

Can out-of-state residents apply for an Arkansas Medical Marijuana ID?

Yes, visiting patients with a valid medical marijuana card from another state can apply. However, your approved condition must also be recognized in Arkansas. 

Is my personal information confidential?

Yes. Medical marijuana records are protected by federal privacy laws, exempt from the Freedom of Information Act, and not accessible to the public. Law enforcement can only verify card validity.


Usage & Legal Restrictions

Where can I use medical marijuana in Arkansas?

You cannot use medical marijuana in public places where others can see you.

Public places include:

  • Any part of a building owned or leased by the state or local government.
  • Healthcare facilities.
  • Any place where smoking is banned under the Clean Indoor Air Act of 2006.

You also cannot use medical marijuana:

  • In a private home that provides licensed childcare, foster care, or similar social services.
  • Near anyone under 18.
  • In a school bus or on school grounds (preschool, primary, or secondary schools).
  • In correctional facilities.
  • In a motor vehicle.
  • In private residences used for licensed childcare or similar services.
  • In public places (defined as any building owned or leased by state/local government or where you can be observed by others).
  • In healthcare facilities or any location where smoking is prohibited under the Clean Indoor Air Act of 2006.
  • In close physical proximity to anyone under 18 years old.

Do other state medical marijuana cards work in Arkansas?

Yes, but you must complete a visiting patient application. 

ID Card - Apply Online - Arkansas Department of Health

Application fee: $50 (non-refundable)

  • If approved, you can purchase medical marijuana in Arkansas for 90 days per application.

Can active military or Arkansas National Guard members apply for a Medical Marijuana ID?

No. Military members, including the Arkansas National Guard, are prohibited from obtaining a medical marijuana card.


Application Processing & ID Card Issues

How long does it take to process my application?

Processing takes up to 14 days after receiving your application and payment. If approved, your card will be mailed the next business day.

Will I receive a temporary card while waiting?

No. Temporary cards are not issued. However, online applicants can print a copy of their approved card.

What should I do if my card is lost, stolen, or damaged?

If you applied online, you can print a replacement from your account. Otherwise, call the Arkansas Department of Health to request a new card.

What if my name or information is incorrect on my card?

Contact the Arkansas Department of Health to request corrections.

Can I buy medical marijuana if my card expires before renewal?

No. Once your card expires, you cannot legally purchase medical marijuana until your renewal card is issued.

How will I receive my ID card?

A physical card will be mailed automatically after approval. If you applied online, you can log in and print a copy.


Medical Conditions & Physician Certification

What are the qualifying medical conditions?

  • Cancer
  • Glaucoma
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Hepatitis C
  • ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
  • Tourette’s Syndrome
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Ulcerative Colitis
  • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
  • Severe Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Cachexia/Wasting Syndrome
  • Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Intractable Pain (pain unresponsive to treatment for 6+ months)
  • Severe Nausea
  • Seizures (including epilepsy)
  • Severe and persistent muscle spasms (including multiple sclerosis)
  • Other conditions approved by the Department of Health

Can new conditions be added?

Yes, you can submit a petition to request a new qualifying condition. The review process takes up to 120 days.

Does having a qualifying condition automatically make me eligible?

No. You must obtain a Physician Written Certification from a licensed medical provider.

What are the requirements for physicians?

The certifying physician must:

  • Be a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) licensed in Arkansas.
  • Hold a DEA-controlled substances license.
  • Be in good standing to practice medicine.
  • Have a bona fide physician-patient relationship with the applicant.

Can I find a list of doctors who certify medical marijuana patients?

No. The Arkansas Department of Health does not provide physician recommendations. Patients must find a doctor independently.

Can doctors refuse to certify a patient?

Yes, physicians are not required to provide medical marijuana certifications.

Can a medical marijuana certification be completed via telehealth?

Yes, telehealth certification is allowed, following Arkansas Medical Board rules.

How long is the physician certification valid?

Physician certifications are valid for 30 days. If not submitted within this timeframe, you must obtain a new certification.


Dispensary & Purchasing Regulations

Do I have to buy marijuana from a licensed dispensary?

Yes. To be legally protected, you must purchase from licensed Arkansas dispensaries.

Can I grow my own medical marijuana?

No. Patients and caregivers cannot cultivate marijuana at home.

How much medical marijuana can I legally possess?

Registered patients can purchase up to 2.5 ounces from a dispensary within a 14-day period. Purchases count against your balance for 14 days and do not reset.

Will insurance or Medicaid cover medical marijuana costs?

Contact your insurance provider or Medicaid office for coverage information.


Caregiver Information

What is a designated caregiver?

A caregiver is a person authorized to obtain, possess, and assist in the administration of medical marijuana for a qualified patient. Caregivers must apply for a registry card.

How do I apply to be a caregiver?

Submit a Designated Caregiver Application online.

Can I buy medical marijuana for my child without a caregiver card?

No. Minors cannot purchase medical marijuana. A parent or legal guardian must be a registered caregiver.

Can a caregiver serve multiple patients?

Yes, but they must apply separately and pay the $50 application fee for each patient.

Can a patient have multiple caregivers?

Yes. Each caregiver must apply separately and complete a background check if required.

Can a caregiver also be a registered patient?

Yes. Caregivers can also be qualified medical marijuana patients.


Contact Information

Arkansas Department of Health - Medical Marijuana Section