The MCP gives eligible residents legal access to cannabis through licensed dispensaries, under the supervision of a registered healthcare practitioner. The program is overseen by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC), which establishes rules for eligibility, registration, and use.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
To qualify, patients must be New Jersey residents, maintain a bona fide relationship with a practitioner enrolled in the MCP, and have a diagnosis of at least one qualifying medical condition. A bona fide relationship typically means at least one year of ongoing care, four or more visits for the condition, or a comprehensive evaluation with the practitioner assuming responsibility for follow-up care. Approved conditions include anxiety, chronic pain, cancer, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, seizure disorders, opioid use disorder, inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, migraine, muscular dystrophy, ALS, Tourette syndrome, HIV/AIDS, dysmenorrhea, and terminal illness with a prognosis of less than 12 months.
Step 2: Obtain Certification from a Practitioner
Once the practitioner determines that cannabis could help manage the patient’s symptoms, they issue an Authorizing Healthcare Practitioner Statement. This contains a reference ID and registry ID, which are needed to register online. Patients then create an account in the MCP patient portal to complete the application process. The portal also allows patients to track application status, view their authorized monthly allotment, request new ID cards, and securely communicate with Patient Services.
Step 3: Submit the Application
The application process requires a recent passport-style photo, the selection of an Alternative Treatment Center (ATC) for purchases—changeable at any time—and proof of residency. Proof can be provided with a state-issued ID or two other approved documents such as utility bills, government letters, or recent pay stubs. Digital ID cards are free, while physical cards cost $10. All cards are valid for two years, and renewal applications may be submitted starting 60 days before expiration.
Step 4: Caregiver Registration
Patients who cannot visit a dispensary on their own may appoint up to two caregivers. Caregivers must complete their own MCP registration, and non-immediate family members must undergo fingerprinting and a background check. Like patient cards, caregiver IDs are free in digital form, with physical cards costing $10.
Step 5: Purchase Limits and Benefits
Under state law, patients may purchase up to approximately three ounces of cannabis per 30-day period, with specific dosage recommendations set by the practitioner. Terminally ill patients are exempt from these limits. Medical cannabis purchases are exempt from state sales tax, though municipalities may impose a local tax of up to 2%. Medical patients are given priority service at all licensed dispensaries.
Step 6: Compliance and Safe Use
Patients must carry their MCP ID when in possession of cannabis, keep products in original labeled packaging, and consume them primarily at home. Driving under the influence, transporting cannabis across state lines, and home cultivation are prohibited. Smoking cannabis is only allowed where smoking is otherwise permitted under New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act.
Temporary Registration for Visitors
Out-of-state medical cannabis patients can apply for a nonrenewable six-month temporary MCP card if they are certified by a New Jersey practitioner and provide proof of registration in their home state.
Bottom Line
Getting a medical cannabis card in New Jersey involves confirming eligibility, obtaining practitioner certification, completing state registration, and following all regulations. Staying compliant ensures patients can continue accessing their medicine without interruption.