NJ Medical Card Information
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New Jersey
Before we begin, it is essential to note that only patients aged 18+ years of age may apply. You must also have proof of ID, which shows you are a New Jersey resident. Minors can also attain an MMJ card. They need a designated legal guardian and written confirmation from a pediatrician and a psychiatrist. Applicants also need to have one of the qualifying conditions listed a little later on.
Steps Required to Obtain Medical Marijuana Card in NJ
Step 1 – Visit a Physician
The first step is to visit a doctor registered with the New Jersey Department of Health. This physician will perform your marijuana evaluation and decide if you warrant a written recommendation. Interestingly, these recommendations are not called ‘prescriptions’ because that is a violation of federal law.
If you visit a reputable physician, this initial consultation could last up to an hour. The doctor will take a detailed medical history and review your medical records. They also perform a physical exam and discuss whether you qualify for medical marijuana under state law. Be prepared to provide a urine sample because the doctor wants to see if you are using any other drugs.
When you visit the doctor, make sure you bring your complete medical records. Also, you need a driver’s license or another form of a photo ID and proof of residency. Typically, your physician will accept a utility bill dated within the last 90 days. They also take any correspondence with the state’s Tax Office or the IRS within the previous 12 months.
Step 2 – Follow-Up Visit
New Jersey is different from many states’ MMJ process. Prospective patients must embark on a follow-up visit, which is usually scheduled one week from your first meeting. The doctor reviews the test results and establishes the correct monthly dose of weed. Typically, this ranges from half an ounce to two ounces, but it varies depending on the patient.
Expect your physician to ask if you have ever used cannabis before. It is helpful to know this information. If you are a novice, there is no way of telling how marijuana will affect you. Please note that the physician will ask you to designate an Alternative Treatment Center (ATC), which is a marijuana dispensary. You can only register with a single ATC at any time.
Step 3 – Register with NJ Medical Marijuana Program
In New Jersey, you must have a bona fide relationship with the physician before he/she can provide you with a written recommendation. Once you have a doctor’s certification, it is time to register with the state medical marijuana program. Fill in the required information, which is highlighted with a red asterisk. You also need the unique Patient Reference Number your physician gives you upon approval.
You must upload the following documents:
- A patient photograph; and a photo of your caregiver if applicable.
- A government-issued ID such as a driving license or a New Jersey County ID card.
- Proof of current state residency, such as a utility bill in the last 90 days. The Program accepts gas, electric, cellphone, sewer, or cable bills.
- Proof of government assistance such as Social Security Disability benefits if applicable.
- You may also need to download the caregiver criminal background check form.
- The Program will review your application and documentation and respond via email. You should receive instructions on completing the form. Once notified of the fee amount, you can go back to the registry’s homepage and click on payment. If your application is denied, you will receive instructions on how to amend the application but receive no refund.
You should receive your MMJ card in 2-3 weeks. Only then can you visit a dispensary and purchase weed.
Step 4 – Visit Your Physician Again
Once you begin using cannabis, you must arrange for another follow-up doctor’s visit. They will monitor your progress and may decide to change the dose as they would with any prescription drug. Incidentally, when you visit a dispensary for the first time, you will probably go through an orientation session. It can last up to 20 minutes.
The budtenders in these dispensaries are extremely helpful and can provide you with the right strain for your needs.
Unfortunately, an ounce of weed in New Jersey is among the most expensive in the country. Although you can get mid-range pot for $350 an ounce, top-shelf strains can cost up to $500+! You can also purchase paraphernalia such as a pipe or vape pen at these stores.
Governor Phil Murphy hopes to cut the overall cost to help the 77,000+ MMJ patients in New Jersey. The state government will require for-profit companies to show how they intend to cut prices before entering the marketplace.