New York Cannabis Laws and Regulations

Both medical and adult-use (recreational) cannabis are legal in New York. The medical marijuana program was established in 2014, and adult-use cannabis was legalized in 2021, with sales beginning in 2022.

Medical Marijuana Card Process

Step 1

Obtain a certification from a registered healthcare practitioner.

Medical Eligibility & Consultation Options

  • Cancer
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Spinal Cord Injury with Spasticity
  • Epilepsy
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • Neuropathy
  • Huntington's Disease
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Chronic Pain
  • Opioid Use Disorder
  • New York allows telemedicine for medical cannabis consultations, including for initial certifications and renewals.

Step 2

Register with the New York State Medical Marijuana Program.

Step 3

Pay the application fee and submit required documentation.

Patient Registration & Eligibility Requirements

  • Valid New York State driver's license or state ID
  • Proof of residency
  • Healthcare practitioner certification
  • Application fee ($50 as of 2024, fee waivers available for some patients)
  • Visit the New York State Medical Marijuana Program website
  • Complete the online application
  • Upload required documents, including practitioner certification
  • Pay the application fee
  • Await approval (processing time typically 7-10 business days)
  • Obtain a new certification from a registered healthcare practitioner
  • Submit a renewal application online
  • Pay the renewal fee ($50 as of 2024, fee waivers available)
  • Renew annually

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