Medical Marijuana in Washington

Washington medical marijuana cardIn 1998, 59% of voters approved of a bill to legalize medical marijuana. In 2012 voters approved of a measure that allows for users aged 21 and older to have up to an ounce of marijuana on their person. The law includes penalties for driving under the influence of marijuana.

Qualifying Conditions

Under Washington’s medical marijuana law, patients may be recommended marijuana for the following conditions:

  • Cancer
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Epilepsy
  • Glaucoma
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Hepatitis C
  • Any other chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition which produces for a specific patient one or more of the following, and for which, in the professional opinion of the patient’s physician, such condition may reasonably be relieved by the medical use of marijuana: Cachexia, Severe pain, Severe Nausea. Seizures or Muscle Spasms, or Chemotherapy induced anorexia

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Washington

To apply for a Washington medical marijuana card, you must meet the following criteria:

Legal requirements:

  • You must be a resident of Washington
  • You must obtain a copy of your medical records which indicate that you have been diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition
  • You must get written recommendation by your physician that suggests you may benefit from the use of medical marijuana.

Currently, there is no Washington state registry set up for patients of medical marijuana. You only need to obtain written documentation from your doctor in order to receive protection from the law.

Renewal Requirements

Patients in the state of Washington must annually renew medical marijuana recommendations.