Virginia Medical Cannabis Instructions

Everything you need to know before scheduling and after receiving your certification.

Important: In Virginia, patients do not need to get a state card before purchasing medical cannabis. The key step is receiving a written certification from a licensed medical practitioner.

Basic Requirements

  • You must be a permanent or temporary Virginia resident.
  • You must have a valid government-issued ID.
  • You must have a condition that may benefit from medical cannabis.
  • A licensed practitioner must decide whether medical cannabis is appropriate for you.

Good to Know

  • Virginia does not use a strict list of qualifying conditions.
  • Your certification can be valid for up to 1 year.
  • You can use a digital certification or print a copy.
  • Patients do not need to complete a separate state registration to purchase.

How the Virginia Process Works

  1. Schedule your appointment Meet with a licensed Virginia practitioner who can determine if medical cannabis may benefit your condition.
  2. Receive your written certification If approved, your practitioner will issue a written certification through the Virginia CCA system.
  3. Check your email After your certification is issued, you should receive portal emails from the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder if you do not see them.
  4. Access your digital certification You can log into the Virginia CCA Portal to view your certification and download or print your digital card.
  5. Visit a dispensary Bring your written certification and your government-issued ID. If your current ID does not show your Virginia address, bring proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease.

What to Bring to the Dispensary

  • Your valid written certification (digital or printed)
  • Your government-issued photo ID
  • Proof of Virginia residency if your address is not shown on your ID

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Virginia medical cannabis card?

No. Virginia no longer requires patients to get a registration card in order to purchase medical cannabis.

Do I still have to use the Virginia portal?

The portal is how patients access their digital certification after it is issued. You do not need to complete a separate state registration application just to become a patient.

Is there a list of qualifying conditions?

No fixed list. In Virginia, a practitioner may certify a patient for any diagnosed condition or disease they believe may benefit from medical cannabis.

How long is the certification good for?

Certifications are generally valid for up to 1 year unless the practitioner sets an earlier expiration date.

Can I print my certification?

Yes. Patients can keep the certification digitally or print a physical copy for use at the dispensary.

Schedule Your Virginia Appointment Visit the Help Page Virginia CCA Portal

This page is intended as a simple patient guide. State rules can change, so always follow the most current Virginia guidance at the time of your appointment.