Medical marijuana has been legal in Ohio since 2016, and since then, thousands of patients have been able to benefit from its use. However, the state’s medical marijuana program requires patients to renew their medical marijuana cards on an annual basis, which can be a confusing process for many. This guide will provide comprehensive overview of the steps involved in renewing your medical marijuana card in Ohio.
What Is A Medical Marijuana Card?
Before diving into the medical marijuana renewal Ohio process, it’s important to understand what a medical marijuana card is and what it does. In Ohio, a medical marijuana card, also known as a patient registry identification card, is a state-issued identification card that allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to legally purchase and use medical marijuana products. The card is only issued to patients who have been certified by a state-approved medical marijuana doctor and have registered with the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program.
The medical marijuana card serves as proof that the patient is legally allowed to purchase and use medical marijuana products in Ohio. It must be presented to the dispensary staff each time the patient makes a purchase.
How Long Does Medical Marijuana Card Last In Ohio?
In Ohio, medical marijuana cards expire one year from the date they are issued. After that, patients must renew their cards to continue to legally purchase and use medical marijuana products.
It’s important to note that the renewal process must be completed before the card expires. If a patient’s card expires before they renew it, they will not be able to legally purchase or use medical marijuana until their new card is issued.
How To Renew Medical Marijuana Card In Ohio?
The process for renewing medical marijuana card in Ohio is relatively straightforward. However, there are several steps involved, and it’s important to plan to ensure that your card is renewed before it expires.
Step 1: Make An Appointment With Your Doctor
Before you renew your medical marijuana card, you must be recertified by a state-approved medical marijuana doctor. This involves scheduling an appointment with your doctor and discussing your medical condition to determine whether you still qualify for medical marijuana treatment.
It’s important to schedule this appointment well in advance of your card’s expiration date to ensure that you have plenty of time to complete the renewal process. Some doctors may require a few days or weeks to process your recertification request, so it’s best to schedule your appointment at least a month before your card expires.
Step 2: Submit Your Renewal Application
Once your doctor has recertified you for medical marijuana treatment, you’ll need to submit a renewal application to the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program. This can be done online through the program’s website or by mail.
To submit your renewal application online, you’ll need to create an account on the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program website and complete the online renewal form. You’ll also need to upload a copy of your current medical marijuana card and pay the renewal fee.
If you prefer to submit your renewal application by mail, you’ll need to download and print the renewal form from the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program website. You’ll need to complete the form and include a copy of your current medical marijuana card, along with check or money order for the renewal fee. You can then mail the application to the address listed on the form.
Step 3: Wait For Your New Card To Arrive
After you’ve submitted your renewal application, you’ll need to wait for your new medical marijuana card to arrive in the mail. It can take several weeks for the card to be processed and issued, so it’s important to submit your renewal application well in advance of your card’s expiration date.
Once you receive your new medical marijuana card, you can continue to legally purchase and use medical marijuana products in Ohio.
