Vermont legalized medical cannabis use in 2004. The program was expanded over the following ten years to reduce penalties, lift the patient cap, and authorize cannabis delivery to patients.
Vermont legalized recreational cannabis, launching adult-use sales in October 2022. The state now boasts flourishing recreational and medical markets, and it offers Vermont patients a convenience and simple way to get their medical marijuana card and begin enjoying additional patient benefits.
Keep reading to learn how to get and renew your Vermont medical marijuana card.
Steps to Get a Vermont Medical Marijuana Card
Getting your Vermont medical marijuana card is a straightforward process. You'll follow a few easy steps:
- Determine that you qualify. You must be a registered resident of Vermont and have a qualifying medical condition. For patients under 18, requirements also include a designated caregiver.
- Get a medical cannabis evaluation with a qualified Vermont physician. A qualifying practitioner must register with the program before they can recommend cannabis. Be sure to confirm your doctor is qualified before you make an appointment!
- Once approved, you'll pay a $50 non-refundable state application fee. Submit your application, and the state will review it within 30 days. You’ll receive your card at the mailing address provided in your application.
How to Complete Your Vermont Medical Marijuana Card Renewal
In Vermont, medical cannabis cards are valid for between one to three years.
As your card's expiration date approaches, it's a good rule of thumb to renew at least one month in advance to avoid any interruption in cannabis access. Renewing early also avoids the need to fill out a new healthcare form (which is required every time if your card expires in between renewals).
To start your Vermont medical marijuana card renewal, visit any qualifying licensed practitioner. NuggMD simplifies the process by connecting you with qualified Vermont physicians from the comfort of your own home.
You can use NuggMD's services even if you obtained your initial medical cannabis recommendation from a different doctor in the past.
Who Qualifies for a Vermont Medical Marijuana Card?
A patient must be a state resident suffering from a debilitating condition to qualify for a Vermont medical marijuana card. Applicants must be 18 years or older or have a designated caregiver.
Employees who carry a med card and qualify with a disability are protected under Vermont’s Fair Employment Practices Act. The Act states that businesses cannot discriminate against workers using cannabis outside of work. Even with a medical card, however, workers cannot use cannabis at work.
Learn more about Vermont’s medical cannabis laws and regulations.
What Are the Qualifying Conditions to Get a VT Medical Card?
Residents may qualify for a Vermont medical cannabis card if they suffer from a “debilitating” medical condition. Medical conditions that qualify as debilitating include:
- AIDS or HIV
- Cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Glaucoma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)*
Or, you may qualify if your medical condition produces one or more of the following symptoms:
- Chronic pain
- Seizures
- Severe nausea
- Wasting syndrome
*Patients qualifying through PTSD must be in active therapy.
How to Find a Certified Medical Marijuana Doctor in Vermont
You don’t have to spend hours searching for a certified medical marijuana doctor who is willing to recommend cannabis for medicinal use.
NuggMD works with state-licensed medical marijuana practitioners in Vermont who perform honest evaluations of your condition to help you decide if cannabis is right for you.
Have medical records on hand to expedite the assessment process. These might include:
- Patient charts
- Current prescriptions
- Physical therapy records
- Medical test results
- Hospital records
If you’re not sure where to start or don’t have time to go into a doctor’s physical office, skip the trip. Visit NuggMD Vermont to receive an online evaluation from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Get Your Medical Cannabis Recommendation Online with NuggMD
It’s easy to see a qualified medical marijuana doctor with NuggMD. Follow these simple steps to connect with a licensed Vermont physician.
- Sign up. Fill out a confidential, 30-second questionnaire on NuggMD Vermont.
- Connect with a registered doctor. In as little as 15 minutes, receive a cannabis evaluation by one of NuggMD’s state-certified practitioners.
- Submit payment after your evaluation. Only pay if your doctor recommends medical cannabis for you! From here, you’ll complete your registration and finish getting approved for a Vermont medical card.
What to Expect When Talking to a Vermont Medical Marijuana Doctor Near You
Bringing your medical records ensures your doctor has as much information as possible so you receive thorough, personalized guidance. Your NuggMD physician will also want to know about any current medications or treatments that may affect product or dosage recommendations.
To be approved for a Vermont medical marijuana card, your doctor may ask for additional medical records.
Feel free to write down any questions you have prior to your evaluation. Your certified medical marijuana doctor will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have.
What Types of Cannabis Products Are Available in Vermont?
Flower that contains under 30% THC and concentrate with under 60% THC are allowed in Vermont. Edibles, beverages, and tinctures are also on the menu.
What If My Dose Is Too High?
Everyone metabolizes cannabis differently, and many consumers benefit from adjusting their dosage to get the best possible experience. Your cannabis doctor can help adjust products or dosage so you get your desired effects consistently.
If you feel overwhelmed after taking a dose, remember that it happens to even experienced consumers at times. Consider steps to reduce the perceived effects of THC, then contact your cannabis practitioner or a qualified cannabis pharmacist doctor to let them know your dose is too high.
Have More Questions About How to Get Your Med Card in Vermont?
Explore Vermont’s cannabis laws and regulations or browse common Vermont patient FAQs.
Contact NuggMD to learn more. Our expert customer support team has helped over two million patients understand the process to access medical marijuana in their state, and we're standing by to answer your questions.
