How to Get a Virginia Medical Cannabis Card

Getting a Virginia medical cannabis card means obtaining a written certification from an eligible health care practitioner. Virginia no longer requires a separate annual patient registration with the state. Once you have a valid certification and a government-issued ID, you can shop at a licensed medical cannabis dispensary.

Virginia Medical Cannabis Certifications offers same-day telehealth evaluations for patients across the Commonwealth — $50 for new certifications and $40 for renewals.

Book your evaluation · Call (276) 285-0435 · info@virginiacard.com

Who can get a Virginia medical cannabis certification?

According to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA), patients generally need to:

  • Be a permanent or temporary resident of Virginia
  • Be at least 18 (or have parent/legal guardian consent if younger)
  • Have a valid government-issued ID
  • Have a condition or disease that a licensed practitioner determines may benefit from cannabis products

Virginia does not publish a fixed “qualifying conditions” list. An eligible practitioner decides whether certification is appropriate for your diagnosed condition. See our qualifying conditions overview.

The 3 steps to get certified in Virginia

1. Meet the basic requirements

Confirm Virginia residency (or temporary residency), age/consent, and ID. Gather any medical history that helps your provider understand your condition.

2. Complete an evaluation with an eligible practitioner

Only certain license types can issue written certifications in Virginia (physicians/DOs, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses with the required Virginia licenses). The visit is conducted by telehealth using real-time interactive audio and video.

During the visit, your provider reviews your history and current condition and, if appropriate, issues a written certification. Certifications can be valid for up to one year, as determined by the practitioner.

With Virginia Medical Cannabis Certifications, most patients finish the online process quickly and receive their certificate by email after approval.

3. Visit a licensed dispensary

Bring your electronic or printed certification and government ID. If your ID does not show Virginia residency, bring a supporting document such as a utility bill or lease. The dispensary verifies the certification (often via QR code) and can dispense medical cannabis products.

Learn more about shopping at Virginia dispensaries.

How much does a Virginia medical cannabis card cost?

Our evaluations are:

  • New certification: $50
  • Renewal: $40

If you do not qualify, your payment is refundable under our stated policy. Full details: Virginia medical cannabis card cost.

How long does certification last?

Your practitioner sets the expiration — up to one year. Plan to renew before it expires so you can keep shopping without interruption.

Same-day telehealth across Virginia

We serve patients statewide via telehealth, including Northern Virginia, Richmond, Hampton Roads, Southwest Virginia, and everywhere in between. Appointments are available seven days a week during our posted hours.

Ready to start? Book now at virginiacard.com or call (276) 285-0435.

Official resources

This page is educational and is not legal or medical advice. Certification decisions are made by licensed practitioners based on your individual evaluation.

Cities we serve

Virginia Medical Cannabis Certifications is telehealth-only and serves patients statewide. Explore local pages for: