A medical marijuana card is basically a state issued identification card, which allows a qualified patient with the recommendation of a licensed physician to acquire, have, or grow cannabis for personal medicinal use despite the lack of the usual Food and Drug Administration (FDA) testing for safety and effectiveness. The state will issue the medical marijuana card to the qualified patient after the doctor has submitted the appropriate forms and completed the required course of study. The card can be renewed every two years or it can be suspended if the qualified patient, by reason of schedule or location, doesn't meet the renewal requirements. The expired card cannot be replaced but it remains valid until it is reinstated.

The federal government does not regulate or oversee the cultivation, distribution, or possession of medical marijuana cards. However, the states do enact some laws that govern the application process for the medical marijuana card, including some mandatory certification requirements. In general, each state issues the cards based on the qualifying diagnosis of the patient. If the doctor certifies that the patient suffers from a debilitating medical condition or that the medical condition is likely to cause death within three months, then the patient must submit an application to the local department of revenue.

Once the application process is completed and the forms are received by the local revenue department, the qualified applicant must meet a number of requirements and produce documentation to support his or her claim. The documentation typically includes the doctor's written statement and recommendations, a list of the medical conditions for which the patient is suffering, and a list of other health care providers who concur that the patient has a debilitating medical condition requiring special care. The applications are evaluated by the local revenue department and the denial of the application depends on several factors, including the nature and extent of the recommended treatment and the patient's current financial situation. In addition, the local taxation board will consider any additional requirements the state or district requires of the physician before issuing the medical marijuana card. If the application is approved, then the patient will receive a card identifying them as a valid card holder.

Some doctors and states do not allow their employees to recommend medical marijuana to patients. If you are suffering from a debilitating medical condition and you believe you need this type of medication to relieve your pain, then you should not be afraid to contact your doctor to see if he or she can recommend a qualified provider in your area. Although many doctors will recommend the individual to apply for a medical marijuana card, not all doctors will allow their patients to use this drug for recreational purposes. If you are interested in recreational uses of this herb, you should contact your doctor to find out his or her opinion.

There are also other considerations you should make when deciding to get a medical cannabis card. Although most states require a valid ID card in order to purchase the drug, there are still a few states that do not require a medical marijuana card. Therefore, a patient may be purchasing the drug without having the proper documentation.

The card will help prevent many accidents on the road from being caused by inexperienced drivers or by those who have no medical conditions. However, some states are taking steps to regulate the sale of medicinal marijuana. Unfortunately, these measures are only being implemented in an effort to increase taxes and criminal justice fees. Therefore, it is up to the consumer to research all of his or her options to ensure that he or she is buying a safe product. You will receive a medical marijuana card for the medicinal purposes that you qualify for; however, you should never buy any drugs from a dealer unless you personally know and trust that person.