Renew
Washington, D.C.’s medical cannabis program continues to serve residents who rely on cannabis for medical purposes. An important part of remaining active in the program is keeping a valid medical cannabis registration. Below, we explain how renewal works in the District and answer common questions about maintaining uninterrupted access.
Do you have to renew a medical marijuana card in Washington D.C.?
Yes. Patients registered in the District’s Medical Cannabis Program must renew their registration when it expires. Registrations are issued for fixed terms and are not valid indefinitely. To maintain uninterrupted access to licensed medical dispensaries, patients must complete the renewal process before their registration expires.
How to renew a medical marijuana card in Washington D.C.
Renewing your medical cannabis registration in Washington, D.C. involves several steps:
Complete the Renewal Application: Patients must complete the appropriate Adult Patient Application or Minor Application and select “Renewal” as the application type.
Healthcare Provider Documentation (If Required): Patients under 21 must provide a recommendation from a licensed healthcare practitioner. Patients 21 and older may renew without a provider recommendation, subject to current District regulations.
Gather Required Documents: Applicants must provide proof of D.C. residency, a current passport-style photograph (2” x 2”), a copy of a government-issued photo ID, and income verification if applying for a reduced fee. Caregiver documentation must be included if applicable.
Submit the Application: Applications may be submitted online through the ABCA patient portal (for eligible adults), by email, in person, or by mail to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) Medical Cannabis Program office.
Pay the Renewal Fee: Patients must pay the applicable renewal fee at the time of submission.
Receive Temporary Registration (If Approved): If the application is complete, the ABCA may issue a temporary digital registration valid for up to 30 days while final review is pending.
Approval and Issuance: Once approved, patients receive a permanent digital registration by email and a physical registration card by mail. Digital and physical registrations may be used interchangeably at licensed dispensaries.
How long is a Washington D.C. medical marijuana card good for?
A medical cannabis patient registration in Washington, D.C. is valid for two years and must be renewed at expiration to maintain active status.
How much does it cost to renew a medical marijuana card in Washington D.C.?
The standard renewal fee for a patient registration in Washington, D.C. is $100. Patients who are current Medicaid or DC Alliance beneficiaries, or who meet low-income requirements, may qualify for a reduced fee of $25 with proper documentation. These state fees do not include any costs associated with optional healthcare provider consultations.