How to Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in Texas

Medical cannabis has been legal to some degree in Texas since 2015. As of February 2024, medical cannabis products must contain less than 1% THC by weight.

For incapacitated adults and minor patients, caregivers are a vital part of the medical marketplace. Cannabis caregivers can help purchase, deliver, transfer, and even administer cannabis to patients. And while caregivers have many rights, they’re not the same as a patient’s.

So, what are a Texas caregiver’s rights? Who is eligible? And how can you become a medical cannabis caregiver in the Lone Star State?

How to Become a Medical Cannabis Caregiver in Texas

how to become a medicinal cannabis caregiver

The Texas Compassionate Use Act doesn't state any guidelines for cannabis caregivers. That means the state doesn’t currently have a process for designating medical cannabis caregivers.

However, a minor will still require the permission of a parent or legal guardian. A qualified physician will record the name and social security number of the parent or legal guardian and input that information alongside the minor's application in the CURT (Compassionate Use Registry of Texas). Any oversight falls under the jurisdiction of the Texas DPS (Department of Public Safety).

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What is a Medical Marijuana Caregiver (and Who Qualifies in Texas)?

There’s no formal process to become a medical cannabis caregiver in Texas.

A parent or legal guardian of a registered patient below the age of 18 can legally obtain cannabis products on their behalf. Proof of identification is all that’s typically required.

Texas Laws for MMJ Caregivers and Their Patients

Designating a Caregiver in Texas

Medical cannabis patients cannot presently designate a caregiver in Texas. For minors, the physician will require a parent or legal guardian’s name and social security number to go alongside the application. Once approved, patients or caregivers can purchase cannabis products from any licensed Texas dispensing organization.

Cultivating Cannabis as a Caregiver in Texas

The Texas Compassionate Use Act explicitly states that growing cannabis plants at home is still illegal, even for patients or caregivers. Parents or legal guardians of medical cannabis patients may not cultivate cannabis on behalf of their patients. At this time, only licensed dispensing organizations have the authority to grow cannabis. That cultivation is also only for the production of low-THC cannabis products.

Learn more about Texas’s cannabis laws and regulations, visit our Texas patient FAQs, or visit one of our other helpful resources for current and prospective Texas medical cannabis patients.

Can't find what you need? Speak with a highly-rated customer service team member for transparent guidance. We can help you designate a caregiver and learn how to get a medical cannabis card in Texas quickly and seamlessly.