Montana has long been at the forefront of cannabis legalization, first approving medical cannabis in 2004 and later passing recreational cannabis in 2021. Today, the state offers a well-established medical cannabis program that provides patients with access to high-quality cannabis products at reduced tax rates—helping you save more green at your favorite Montana dispensary!
If you’ve been considering getting your Montana medical marijuana card but aren’t sure where to start, don’t worry—the process is straightforward and only requires a few key steps. In this guide, we’ll walk you through it all, including:
- Who qualifies for a medical marijuana card in Montana?
- How do you apply for a medical card?
- How much cannabis can you purchase as a medical patient?
- What are the benefits of being a registered medical cannabis patient in Montana?
…and much more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of Montana’s medical cannabis program and feel confident taking the next step toward getting your card.
Why Get a Medical Card in Montana?
Holding a Montana medical marijuana card comes with several advantages over purchasing cannabis recreationally. A few of the most significant benefits include:
- Lower Taxes on Purchases: Medical marijuana in Montana is subject to a significantly lower tax rate than recreational marijuana. The state applies a 4% tax on medical marijuana sales, compared to a 20% tax on recreational marijuana, which can lead to substantial savings over time.
- Access to Higher Potency Products: Medical patients might have access to cannabis products with higher THC levels or different formulations tailored to specific medical needs.
- Higher Purchase Limits: Medical cardholders are allowed to purchase and possess higher amounts of cannabis compared to recreational users. They can buy up to one ounce of flower per day and up to 5 ounces per month.
- Lower Age Restrictions: You may qualify for medical cannabis if you are 18 years old or older, whereas you must be 21 or older to shop for recreational cannabis in Montana. Minors with a designated caregiver can also apply for a Montana medical marijuana card.
Growing Medical Cannabis in Montana
Medical marijuana patients in Montana have the right to grow their own cannabis for personal use—up to two mature plants and two seedlings. Patients can also choose to work with a licensed provider who has the expertise to assist with cultivation. However, keep in mind that if you live in federally subsidized housing, growing cannabis—even for medical use—can result in eviction, as federal law does not recognize state marijuana programs.
Employment protections are also limited. Montana law does not require employers to accommodate medical marijuana use, even for registered patients. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies, and patients concerned about drug testing should consult an attorney for legal guidance.
Understanding these rights and limitations can help you make the most of Montana’s medical marijuana program while staying compliant with state and federal regulations.
Do I Qualify?
So, what qualifies someone for medical cannabis in Montana? Qualifying may be easier than expected, as you only need to meet two conditions: You must be a Montana resident and have a qualifying condition according to the state. Montana recognizes the following as qualifying conditions:
- Cancer
- Severe chronic pain
- Glaucoma
- Immune deficiency syndrome or a related illness
- Epilepsy
- Crohn’s disease
- Wasting syndrome
- Intractable vomiting or nausea
- PTSD
- Central nervous system disorder
How Do I Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Montana?
Though once a challenge, the process of getting a Montana medical cannabis card today is straightforward and relatively easy with just a few steps. With the option of seeing a doctor to get a statement of qualification via telehealth, you may not even need to leave your home to become a patient.
What You Need to Get Started
Gather these items before applying for your card:
- State-issued proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, voter registration card, or tribal ID card
- Clear color photo similar to a driver’s license or passport photo
Become a Patient in 3 Easy Steps
Who knew getting a medical marijuana card in Montana was such a breeze? It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Obtain a physician’s statement
- Fill out your application
- Visit your favorite dispensary
Voila! You’re on your way to quality Montana-grown medical cannabis. Let’s take a closer look:
Step 1: Obtain a Physician Statement
Visit an MD (medical doctor) or DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) to obtain a statement—NDs (naturopathic doctors) are sometimes licensed to issue recommendations for medical marijuana. The CCD doesn’t maintain a list of physicians, but many MDs and DOs in the state offer cannabis certifications for patients. Additionally, telehealth appointments are available through some providers to obtain a statement.
A separate form exists specifically for minor patients. A patient can become registered if they are under the age of 18, but they must have their parent or legal guardian act as supervisor and control usage. The recommendation for treatment must also come from two physicians instead of one.
Step 2: Complete Your Application
The application process for a Montana medical marijuana card is entirely online via the TransAction Portal (TAP). Montana does not accept paper applications for medical marijuana cards—all applications must be submitted through TAP. The fee for registering is $20, which is non-refundable. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and issuing your card.
The application process involves filling out your personal information, uploading the physician’s statement, providing proof of residency, and submitting a clear, recent color photo. Once you’ve compiled all necessary documents, you’ll pay the application fee online through TAP, and your application will be processed.
Step 3: Visit Your Local Seed of Life Dispensary
Once you have completed all the necessary steps to apply for your Montana medical cannabis card, you don’t have to wait to shop for cannabis. As long as your application is approved, you can simply print out a temporary ID card until you receive your card from the Cannabis Control Division.
The temporary ID is accepted at Seed of Life, so there’s no need to delay your visit to one of our dispensaries. Generally, you can expect the physical medical marijuana ID card to arrive in the mail in about 30 days.
Renewing Your Montana Medical Card
Typically, a new medical marijuana card for Montana will be valid for up to one year from the date it is issued. However, physicians can also recommend patients receive treatment for a shorter duration. Therefore, double-check the expiration date on your card so you don’t miss your renewal date.
Your card can be renewed online via the TAP portal. You must update all previously provided information, including a new physician’s statement. Once all documents have been uploaded and changes made, you must pay a $20 renewal fee to submit the renewal application.
Visit Our Medical Cannabis Dispensary at Seed of Life
While recreational cannabis is available in Montana, having a medical marijuana card comes with some serious perks. Not only do medical patients save money with lower taxes, but they also get access to a broader selection of products, including higher-potency strains and specialized formulations designed for therapeutic use. Plus, medical cardholders can purchase and possess more cannabis than recreational users, giving them more flexibility in managing their needs.
Getting a medical marijuana card in Montana is easier than ever, thanks to telehealth services. No need for an in-person visit—just connect with a doctor online, get your statement of qualification, and you’re on your way. It’s a quick and convenient process that opens the door to better prices, more potent products, and higher limits.
Not sure if a medical card is right for you? Have questions about how to apply? Your local Seed of Life dispensary is here to help. Reach out today and take the first step toward accessing the benefits of Montana’s medical cannabis program.
