Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card in California (2025)

California’s Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program (MMICP), managed by the Department of Public Health, enables residents with certain health conditions and a physician’s recommendation to access and use medical cannabis legally. While adult-use cannabis is legal in California, holding a medical card offers additional benefits, such as higher possession limits and exemption from state sales tax.

Qualifying Medical Conditions

California patients may qualify for a medical marijuana card if diagnosed by a licensed physician with one or more of these serious conditions:

  • Anorexia
  • Arthritis
  • Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
  • Cancer
  • Chronic pain
  • Glaucoma
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Migraine
  • Persistent muscle spasms (e.g., those associated with MS)
  • Seizures (e.g., epilepsy)
  • Severe nausea
  • Any other chronic or persistent medical symptom that substantially limits the ability to conduct major life activities or may cause serious harm to physical or mental health if not alleviated

Reference: California Department of Public Health – MMICP

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a California resident with proof of residency
  • Be at least 18 years old (minors require a parent/caregiver designation)
  • Obtain a written recommendation from a California-licensed physician
  • Maintain a bona fide physician-patient relationship

Participation in the MMICP is voluntary, but a state- or county-issued Medical Marijuana ID card grants additional legal protections and tax exemptions.

Application Process

  1. Receive Physician Recommendation:
    Consult with a California-licensed physician to obtain written documentation recommending medicinal cannabis for your condition. Your provider completes the required CDPH 9044 form or provides an official letter.
  2. Gather Required Documents:
    Have your completed application form (CDPH 9042), physician’s recommendation, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement).
  3. Apply In Person:
    Submit your application at your county health department office by appointment. Both patient and, if applicable, primary caregiver must appear.
  4. Pay the Application Fee:
    The fee varies by county (up to $100); Medi-Cal recipients receive a 50% reduction and indigent patients may qualify for a fee waiver.
  5. Await Card Issuance:
    Processing takes up to 35 days. Upon approval, a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) is issued and valid for up to 12 months.
  6. Purchase Medical Cannabis:
    Use your MMIC at licensed dispensaries. Present it to receive state sales tax exemption.

References: CDPH FAQs | Alameda County Public Health Application Process

Caregivers and Minors

Minor patients and those unable to self-administer may designate a primary caregiver, who must also apply and meet all requirements. Caregivers receive a linked MMIC.

Official Resources & Links