How to Get an Arkansas Medical Marijuana Card (Step-by-Step)

If you’re dealing with a long-term health condition, you might be wondering whether medical cannabis is an option — and what it takes to get a card in Arkansas.

This guide walks through the basic steps to apply for a medical marijuana card in Arkansas so you know what to expect. It’s not legal or medical advice, but it should help you feel less lost in the process.

Step 1: Check if you might qualify

To be approved, you’ll need to:

• Be an Arkansas resident

• Have a qualifying medical condition recognized by the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH)

Some examples of qualifying conditions include:

• Cancer

• Glaucoma

• HIV/AIDS

• PTSD

• Severe arthritis

• Intractable pain

• Seizure disorders

• Severe nausea

• Muscle spasms
  …and more. The full, current list is available on the Arkansas Department of Health and UAMS medical cannabis websites.

Only a licensed physician can determine whether your condition qualifies and whether medical cannabis might be appropriate for you.

Step 2: Talk to a qualified physician

Next, you’ll need a Physician Written Certification form completed and signed by a doctor licensed in Arkansas.

You can:

• Talk to your current doctor if they’re willing to certify

• Schedule with a clinic that specializes in medical cannabis evaluations (many offer in-person or telehealth appointments)

At this appointment, your doctor will review:

• Your medical history

• Your current medications

• Symptoms and treatment goals

If they believe you meet the criteria, they’ll complete and sign the Physician Written Certification form for you.

Step 3: Gather your documents

Before you apply, you’ll need:

• A copy of your Arkansas driver’s license or state ID (proof of residency)

• The original Physician Written Certification (usually valid for 30 days from the date your doctor signs it — check current rules to be sure)

• Payment for the state application fee (typically paid online via card; check the ADH website for current amount)

Step 4: Apply through the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Patient Registry

You’ll submit your application through the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Patient Registry System, run by the Arkansas Department of Health.

You can apply:

• Online:

  • Create an account or log in to the Patient Registry System

  • Complete the online application form

  • Upload your documents and pay the fee

• By mail:

  • Print and fill out the Patient Registry Application form

  • Include copies of your ID, your Physician Written Certification, and a check or money order

  • Mail to the address listed on the ADH form

Be sure all information is accurate and matches your ID.

Step 5: Wait for review and approval

Once your application is submitted:

• The ADH will review your application and certification

• If everything is in order, they’ll issue your Arkansas Medical Marijuana ID card

Processing times can vary; many clinics and educational sites recommend allowing at least 2–4 weeks for review, especially if there are any errors or missing documents.

You must have your physical or digital card (and valid photo ID) before you can purchase at a dispensary.

Step 6: Learn the basics of Arkansas rules

Once you have your card, it’s important to know a few key rules:

• Recreational cannabis is still illegal in Arkansas — your card protects you only within the medical program.

• Patients can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis (or equivalent) every 14 days from licensed dispensaries.

• No home cultivation is allowed. All medical cannabis must come from licensed Arkansas dispensaries.

• You cannot use cannabis in public, in vehicles, on school grounds, in correctional facilities, or anywhere it’s specifically prohibited (including certain housing and workplaces).

Always check the ADH and UAMS resources for the most current information, as rules can be updated.

Step 7: Visit a dispensary when you’re ready

Once your card is active, you can visit any Arkansas medical dispensary, including Arkansas’ Finest locations in:

• Clarksville

• Conway

• Eureka Springs

• Jonesboro

• Morrilton

• Pine Bluff

Bring your medical card and photo ID, and our team will walk you through check-in, answer your questions about products, and help you shop within your legal limit.

Need help understanding the next step?

If you’re not sure where to start, browse our Medical Card page and FAQ section. They’re designed to be a friendly companion to the official Arkansas Department of Health resources — not a replacement, but a simpler way to understand the big picture.