Renew
Washington’s medical cannabis authorization system continues to support patients who rely on cannabis for therapeutic purposes. An important part of maintaining recognition status is keeping a valid medical cannabis authorization and recognition card. Below, we explain how renewal works in Washington and answer common questions patients may have about staying active in the program.
Do you have to renew a medical cannabis card in Washington?
Yes. Patients entered into the medical cannabis authorization database must renew their medical cannabis authorization when it expires. Recognition cards in Washington are tied to a valid authorization form and are not indefinite. To maintain uninterrupted access to medical cannabis benefits, patients must complete the renewal process before their authorization expires.
How to renew a medical cannabis card in Washington
Renewing your medical cannabis recognition card in Washington involves several steps:
Consultation with a Healthcare Practitioner: Schedule an appointment with a Washington-licensed healthcare practitioner authorized to provide medical cannabis authorizations. The practitioner will evaluate your medical condition and determine whether you continue to qualify under Washington law. If approved, they will complete a new Medical Cannabis Authorization Form.
Meet with a Certified Medical Cannabis Consultant: After receiving your updated authorization, visit a medically endorsed retail store and meet with a certified medical cannabis consultant. The consultant will review your authorization and enter or update your information in the state medical cannabis authorization database.
Obtain Your Updated Recognition Card: Once your information is confirmed in the database, the consultant will issue your new medical cannabis recognition card at the retail location.
How long is a Washington medical cannabis card valid?
In Washington, recognition cards are valid as long as the underlying medical cannabis authorization remains valid. For adults age 18 and older, an authorization may be issued for up to one year. For patients under 18, authorizations are generally valid for up to six months. Patients must renew their authorization before it expires to maintain active recognition status.
How much does it cost to renew a medical cannabis card in Washington?
Patients may be required to pay a small fee at the medically endorsed retail store when their recognition card is issued. State rules allow stores to charge a nominal fee, typically ranging from $1 up to $10, which is remitted to the Department of Health.
These fees do not include any costs associated with the healthcare practitioner visit for renewal of the medical cannabis authorization. Consultation costs vary by provider.