How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia [2024 Guide]
Georgia has a complicated history with medical cannabis. While the state was among the first to legalize medical cannabis on paper, its program remains far behind many other states and only allows patients access to low-THC oils, tinctures, capsules, lotions, and transdermal patches, not dry flower cannabis or infused edibles, as most people would typically think of when it comes to a medical cannabis program.
Georgia’s path toward legalization began in 1980 when Georgia passed a law allowing patients suffering from cancer or glaucoma to use cannabis to treat their conditions. Unfortunately, the law was never enacted, and no program came of it.
Georgia tried again to legalize medical cannabis in 2015 and succeeded in establishing a low-THC program. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that the state passed additional legislation establishing a framework for the program, and in 2021, they allowed access to more than just low-THC oils. In early 2023, the state finalized the rules for low-THC cannabis sales. Dispensaries began opening in April 2023.
How Do I Become a Medical Cannabis Patient in Georgia?
Becoming a low-THC medical cannabis patient in Georgia is pretty straightforward. While the program is limited, the process for how to get a medical cannabis card (or "weed card") is actually quite similar to other states.
First, you’ll need to determine whether or not you may have an eligible condition. Then, you’ll need to find a physician to discuss the possibility of medical low-THC cannabis as a treatment option. This can be the most challenging part of the process.
Next, you’ll need to meet with your physician for an evaluation to see if low-THC medical cannabis is a fit for you. Your doctor will look over your medical records and evaluate your condition.
If your doctor recommends medical cannabis, they will enter your information into Georgia’s state patient database. Within 15 days, you’ll be notified that you need to pick up your card from a public health office and pay the standard fee of $25.
How much does a medical card cost in Georgia?
Patients are responsible for the cost of a medical cannabis evaluation - just $99 with NuggMD Georgia - and the state's standard $25 fee.
How Do I Renew a Med Card in Georgia?
You’ll need to renew your medical cannabis card every two years. The process to renew your medical card is exactly the same as applying for the first time. You're required to see a doctor for an updated evaluation. Thankfully, Georgia allows any state-licensed doctor in good standing to recommend medical cannabis.
Who Qualifies for Medical Cannabis in Georgia?
The qualifications for Georgia’s low-THC medical cannabis program are pretty basic. The state requires patients to have been residents of the state with a valid ID or driver’s license. Georgia also requires that patients be evaluated by a state-licensed physician and approved for one of the state’s qualifying medical conditions.
Please be aware that the Department may call you to verify your information, and the doctor may want to verify your residency by checking the front and back of your ID. The Department has required some patients to update their address on their ID via the DMV before issuing their medical marijuana card.
What Are the Qualifying Conditions to Get a Medical Card in Georgia?
Georgia has a relatively limited list of qualifying medical conditions, and those conditions have further qualifiers in many cases. Learn more about Georgia’s list of conditions and whether you may be eligible for a med card.
How to Find a Georgia Medical Card Doctor for an MMJ Evaluation
Finding a doctor willing to discuss medical cannabis and knowledgeable about its applications can be difficult. This is especially true in states where medical cannabis is new, and programs aren’t well established. Thankfully, Georgia residents don’t need to do all the work themselves. NuggMD can make the search so much easier.
NuggMD works directly with state-licensed medical professionals in Georgia. They can provide you with an honest medical evaluation of your condition and help you determine whether medical cannabis could help you and how.
Before you meet with your doctor, gather as many documents relevant to your condition as possible. This makes it easier for your doctor to evaluate you more accurately. Those can include:
- Current prescriptions
- Hospital records
- Medical test results
- Patient charts
- Physical therapy records
Find out how NuggMD can make the evaluation process easier and more accessible. Head over to NuggMD Georgia for your risk-free evaluation from the privacy and comfort of your couch.
Get Your GA Medical Marijuana Recommendation Online
Getting qualified for a Georgia medical marijuana card online is simple with NuggMD. All you have to do is:
- Sign Up to Chat With a Doctor Today
Fill out a 30-second, confidential questionnaire. Our state-certified medical practitioners are standing by to help answer your questions and evaluate your cannabis needs.
- Get Approved
Once approved, your doctor will enter you into the state's registration database. You’ll receive an email with instructions for completing the state waiver form needed to complete your registration.
- Receive Your State Card
Getting your recommendation with NuggMD is fast and easy, but the state can take up to 15 business days to process your medical marijuana license. Once processed, it can be picked up at the nearest public health office. Your GA certification and med card are valid for two years.
What to Expect When Talking to a Georgia Medical Cannabis Doctor on NuggMD
Be prepared to discuss your medical history. As with every doctor, all conversations are confidential and essential to determining what's best for your condition.
Your doctor will review your records. They'll use that information and what you tell them during the consultation to determine if cannabis may be helpful for your case. Give your physician as much information as you can for an accurate assessment. If you still need all the details, your physician may ask for more records before deciding.
Don't let the doctor be the only one asking questions. It's a great idea to jot down questions before and during your consultation. Ask every question you have. Your doctor wants you to have complete confidence and clarity about medical cannabis and your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Cannabis in Georgia
What Types of Cannabis Products Are Available in Georgia?
Georgia law only allows the sale of low-THC cannabis oils, tinctures, transdermal patches, capsules, and lotions with a concentration of THC lower than 5% and an equal or greater concentration of CBD.
What Does Marijuana Feel Like?
Cannabis affects everyone differently. The strain you use, the dose, how you use it, and even your own body all change the effect you get. That said, chances are you won’t feel intoxicating effects after using Georgia’s low-THC cannabis. Still, common effects of cannabis include:
- Relaxation
- Feeling uplifted
- Reduced stress
- Increased hunger
- Increased laughter
- Sleepiness
- Short-term memory problems
Most people have a positive experience with cannabis, but it is possible to have adverse effects. Generally, these are the result of using too much cannabis. These effects can include anxiety, paranoia, and nausea. While these effects are rare, it’s worth being aware.
It’s unlikely you’ll feel intense effects with Georgia’s low-THC cannabis; however, each individual responds differently to cannabis, and it is still wise to take caution when trying a new product. The state’s program seems specifically designed not to get patients intoxicated with a maximum limit of 5% THC for products.
If you’re nervous about using cannabis, it’s a good idea to enlist the help of a friend who is more experienced with cannabis to keep you company when you use cannabis for the first few times. They can help talk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
What If My Dose Is Too High?
It’s highly unlikely that you’ll feel intense, intoxicating effects from Georgia’s low-THC cannabis. The maximum concentration of THC is very low.
If you find yourself feeling uncomfortable, there’s no need to worry. The feeling will pass in a few hours or less. There are steps you can take to feel sober faster. It’s also a good idea to try and pass the time with good snacks and a light-hearted movie.
After you feel better, contact your doctor for help adjusting your dose.
Have More Questions About How to Get Your Med Card in Georgia?
Learn more about Georgia’s medical cannabis rules and regulations and state-provided MMJ patient information, or browse our extensive set of patient resources:
- Georgia Patient FAQs
- Qualifying Conditions in Georgia
- Benefits of Getting a Med Card in Georgia
- How to Become a Caregiver in Georgia
Or contact NuggMD. Our customer support team is eager to demystify the process and rules for you, just like they have for over 1,000,000 patients. Our team of friendly, informed experts will answer your questions and help you understand the Georgia medical cannabis program in no time.
