Colorado Medical Marijuana Program
Medical marijuana became legal in Colorado when 54 percent of voters approved Amendment 20 at the ballot. The law permitted the use of marijuana in Colorado for patients with written medical consent from a physician.
Qualifying medical patients are permitted to possess two ounces of medical marijuana, and to cultivate a maximum of six plants at home, with no more than three being mature at any one time.
Qualifying Conditions
Under Colorado’s marijuana law, patients may be recommended medical marijuana for the following conditions:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Chronic nervous system disorders
- Glaucoma
- HIV or AIDS
- Nausea
- Persistent Muscle Spasms
- Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
- Seizures
- Any condition for which a physician could prescribe an opioid
How to Apply For a Medical Marijuana Card in Colorado
To apply for a Colorado Medical Marijuana Card, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a resident of Colorado
- You must obtain a copy of your medical records, which indicate that you have been diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition
- You must receive written documentation from your physician, which suggests that you may benefit from the use of medical marijuana
Once you have ensured you are eligible, obtained written consent from your doctor, and gathered the required information, you need to create a patient account on the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment website. Once that’s complete, you can log into your account and enter the required information. Applications submitted with all the required information and documentation are generally processed within 1-3 days.
Renewal Requirements
Patients in the state of Colorado must annually renew, with the process and fee being the same as it is for new applicants. Existing patients can apply for a renewal within 30 days of the expiry of their existing card. You will be required to visit your physician to obtain a new recommendation ahead of each renewal.
Where to Get Medical Marijuana in Colorado
Medical marijuana can be purchased from licensed dispensaries across the state, or cultivated at home within the defined limits.