If you’ve been thinking about getting your medical cannabis card in Washington DC but aren’t sure where to start, you’re in the right place. The process is simpler than most people expect — and once you’re registered, you’ll have access to licensed medical cannabis delivery services like Local’d. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Can Apply for a Medical Cannabis Card in DC?
Washington DC’s medical cannabis program is open to a wider range of patients than you might think:
DC residents — any adult 21 or older who lives in the District can apply online
Non-DC residents — including out-of-state visitors and international visitors, can apply for a 90-day temporary registration
Minors — patients under 18 are eligible but must apply in person with a parent or guardian and an identified caregiver
The best part? DC’s program allows patients 21 and older to self-certify — meaning you don’t need a doctor’s recommendation to apply as an adult. You simply certify that you’ll use cannabis purchased from a licensed DC retailer to treat a qualifying medical or dental condition.
What Do You Need to Apply?
Before you start your application, gather the following:
For DC Residents:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of DC residency — acceptable documents include a DC DMV REAL ID, proof of DC personal income tax payment, or a property deed showing you as an owner or co-owner.
- Completed self-certification statement
For Non-DC Residents:
- Valid government-issued photo ID from your home state or country
- A non-refundable $30 registration fee
- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age to apply
One important note — incomplete applications cannot be saved and returned to later, so make sure you have everything ready before you start.
Step-by-Step — How to Apply as a DC Resident
Step 1 — Go to the ABCA Website
Click here to navigate to the appropriate DC Resident Adult Patient Application via the Medical Cannabis Program section of the ABCA website.
Step 2 — Complete the Self-Certification Form
Fill out your personal information and complete the self-certification statement confirming you’ll use cannabis from a licensed DC retailer for a qualifying medical condition.
Step 3 — Upload Your Documents
Upload your proof of identity and proof of DC residency. Make sure your documents are clear and legible before submitting.
Step 4 — Submit Your Application
Review everything carefully and submit. Online applicants will promptly be emailed a temporary digital registration that they may use to purchase cannabis effective immediately for up to 90 days while their application is under review.
Step 5 — Receive Your Registration
New medical cannabis patient registrations are issued for two-year periods. Both digital and physical registrations are accepted at licensed retailers — so you can start using your temporary digital card right away.
How to Apply as a Non-DC Resident
Good news for visitors and out-of-state patients — non-DC residents, including international visitors, may register for a 90-day temporary patient registration to purchase medical cannabis from a DC-licensed dispensary.
The process is similar to the resident application — just use the Non-DC Resident Adult Patient Application on the ABCA website instead. Upon submission, you will be sent an email with a payment link. After documents and payment are received, you will receive an email that will serve as your Non-Resident Medical Cannabis Patient Registration — and once in receipt, you can use it immediately.
Local’d accepts medical cannabis cards from all states with a regulated medical cannabis program, so out-of-state patients are always welcome.
What Are the Possession Limits Once You’re Registered?
Once you have your medical cannabis registration, DC law allows you to:
- Purchase up to 8 ounces of cannabis in any 30-day period
- Possess up to 2 ounces at any given time
- Use cannabis in private residences — public consumption remains illegal
What About Renewing Your Card?
Renewing your card is also done online. Registrations issued with a six-year period will continue to be valid through the date included on the registration, while newer registrations follow the two-year renewal cycle. You’ll receive a reminder when it’s time to renew.
Ready to Order? Local’d Has You Covered
Once your registration is in hand you’re ready to start ordering. Local’d is DC’s trusted licensed medical cannabis delivery service — bringing a curated selection of lab-tested flower, edibles, concentrates, vapes, pre-rolls, and tinctures directly to your door across DC, typically within the hour.
Browse the Local’d menu to explore our full selection, or visit our FAQ page if you have more questions about getting started. We’re here to make your first medical cannabis experience as smooth as possible.
