This guide explains qualifying conditions, physician evaluation, and how to begin the Georgia medical cannabis card process. GMMC serves adults age 18 and older throughout Georgia.
$100 · Private 15-minute phone consultation with a Georgia-licensed MD. Book through Calendly, receive your eVisit link from our team, and pay through eVisit after your telemedicine visit. If the physician determines you do not qualify, we refund any consultation fee you paid.
Book a $100 Consultation · Pricing and fees · Consultation refund policy
Who Qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia Right Now?
Patients sometimes search for a medical marijuana doctor or a medical marijuana card online. In Georgia, the essential step is evaluation by a fully licensed physician with a principal practice location in the state. An online booking is a way to arrange that evaluation, not a certification by itself.
Recreational marijuana use remains illegal in Georgia. Georgia's medical marijuana program requires physician certification and a valid registry card. This guide focuses on Georgia residents applying through that process.
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Georgia requires meeting residency and medical criteria. In plain language, eligibility is based on being a Georgia resident (adult or minor) and having at least one qualifying medical condition approved by the Georgia Department of Public Health. A Georgia-licensed physician must diagnose patients with a qualifying condition before any certification can proceed. You must be a legal resident of Georgia to apply.
Here is what you need to know at a glance:
Adults 18 and older can register as patients directly. Georgia law allows registry cards for parents or guardians of qualifying patients under 18, with the caregiver managing possession and administering medical cannabis on their behalf.
As of 2026, registered patients may legally possess up to 12,000 milligrams of THC across regulated medical cannabis products, purchased only from licensed dispensaries or pharmacies.
Possession limits apply only to registered medical cannabis patients holding a valid medical cannabis registry card.
This article covers who qualifies, the complete list of qualifying medical conditions, and how to get a Georgia medical card through the state's medical marijuana program.
Georgia's Medical Cannabis Program: Department of Public Health Requirements
Use the Georgia Department of Public Health patient guide for current requirements. Qualifying-condition criteria differ by diagnosis; a blanket statement that all severity restrictions have been removed would be inaccurate.
Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia
Georgia law (OCGA §31-2A-18 and subsequent amendments) recognizes qualifying medical conditions for medical cannabis registration in 2026. Each condition is defined in DPH guidance and may carry age-related or diagnostic nuances:
Cancer
DPH's cancer category excludes non-metastatic skin cancer. Metastatic skin cancer falls within the listed category. Bring the relevant diagnosis and staging information to your medical marijuana card consultation.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis appears on the state's qualifying-condition list. Your medical marijuana doctor will review the diagnosis and decide whether to certify you.
Seizure Disorders
The registry category covers seizure disorders related to epilepsy or trauma-related head injuries. Bring documentation of the underlying diagnosis when seeking a Georgia medical marijuana card.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a listed qualifying condition. Certification for a medical marijuana card remains a physician decision, rather than an automatic outcome of booking.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease is listed by DPH. If your records identify Crohn's disease or another inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis, ask the physician to review how the criteria apply.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Adult and minor criteria differ. The adult category concerns diagnosed autism spectrum disorder; the minor category specifies severe autism. GMMC's Georgia medical marijuana card consultations serve adults only.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
The PTSD category is limited to adults and includes a trauma-related requirement. Discuss the diagnosis privately with the physician; do not place trauma details in the website contact form.
Parkinson's disease
Bring records identifying your Parkinson's disease diagnosis and your current medications to the physician review.
Mitochondrial disease
Bring relevant diagnostic records and explain your current symptoms during the private consultation.
Sickle cell disease
Share your diagnosis and treatment history with the physician. Certification remains an individual medical decision.
Alzheimer's disease
Ask how a caregiver can assist with the evaluation and state process if the adult patient needs support.
Tourette's syndrome
Bring diagnostic information and discuss your current symptoms and treatment history with the physician.
Peripheral Neuropathy
This qualifying condition specifies severe symptoms. Ask your medical marijuana doctor to review your records and symptom history rather than assuming every neuropathy diagnosis meets the criteria.
Intractable Pain
Georgia distinguishes intractable pain from pain in general. Bring your treatment history to the medical marijuana card evaluation so the physician can assess the statutory definition.
Epidermolysis bullosa
Provide records confirming your diagnosis for physician review rather than relying on a symptom checklist.
AIDS / HIV Stage III
DPH's HIV category specifies stage III. Ask the physician to review the documented stage and applicable eligibility.
Hospice Care
DPH lists enrollment in a hospice program, whether inpatient or outpatient. Share enrollment documentation with the certifying physician.
Lupus
Bring records showing your lupus diagnosis and current treatment for the physician to review.
Physicians must diagnose these conditions. Patients cannot self-diagnose and qualify. Anxiety and depression alone are not listed qualifying conditions. Autism eligibility depends on an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and applicable criteria. A physician evaluation does not add an unlisted condition to the state's qualifying categories.
Key Diagnoses Explained: Do You Meet a Qualifying Condition?
Your treating physician will review your medical history, past medical treatment attempts, and symptom severity when deciding whether your condition fits Georgia's eligibility criteria. Here is how common conditions qualify:
Cancer: Covers most cancers, with the only exclusion being non-metastatic skin cancer (metastatic skin cancer does qualify). No longer must be "end-stage" after SB 220.
Epilepsy / Seizure disorders: Includes epilepsy and recurrent seizure disorders related to head-trauma diagnoses. Such disease must be documented in medical records.
Intractable pain: Pain whose cause cannot be removed, with appropriate pain-management approaches used for at least six months without adequate results or with intolerable side effects. This does not require every patient to undergo surgery or take opioids.
PTSD: PTSD qualifies individuals 18 and older for medical marijuana. The diagnosis must involve direct exposure to or witnessing qualifying trauma. Anxiety alone does not qualify.
Autism spectrum disorder: DPH lists diagnosed autism spectrum disorder for adults age 18 and older and severe autism for patients under 18. GMMC offers consultations for adults only.
Peripheral neuropathy: DPH's qualifying category specifies severe symptoms; the physician assesses whether the criteria apply.
Neurologic conditions: DPH lists Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Tourette's syndrome. Certification remains a physician decision.
Sickle cell and Mitochondrial disease: Genetic or metabolic conditions with significant pain, fatigue, and quality-of-life impacts.
Lupus: DPH lists lupus as a qualifying condition. Bring records showing your diagnosis so the physician can assess eligibility.
For patients receiving health services through a hospice program, active enrollment itself is a qualifying status—even if the primary diagnosis is not separately on the list. Only fully licensed physicians with a principal practice location in Georgia can certify and manage patients for the registry.
Adult vs. Minor Eligibility: GMMC Serves Adults Only
The state registry includes provisions for qualifying minors and caregivers. Those provisions do not mean GMMC offers pediatric consultations; our service is for adults age 18 and older.
Georgia's medical cannabis laws treat adults and minors differently, particularly regarding PTSD and autism spectrum disorder.
Adult patient eligibility:
GMMC's Georgia medical marijuana card applicants must be at least 18 years old and a Georgia resident.
Must have at least one qualifying condition diagnosed by a Georgia-licensed MD or DO.
Adults seeking a Georgia medical marijuana card must meet the applicable diagnosis-specific criteria.
Minor patient eligibility:
For a qualifying minor, ask DPH about the role and required documentation of a parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian.
Minors may qualify for epilepsy, Crohn's/IBD, sickle cell disease, autism spectrum disorder, cancer, and other pediatric-appropriate conditions.
PTSD remains adult-only under current georgia law.
Caregiver rules:
Ask DPH about caregiver eligibility, registration, and documentation for your circumstances.
Must appear in the DPH registry and carry their own caregiver card when in possession of medical cannabis for the patient. Do not assume an unauthorized person has the same possession authorization as a registered patient or caregiver. Consult official guidance about administering medical cannabis and possession rules.
Each qualifying minor may have more than one caregiver registered (e.g., both parents), each with a separate card.
Georgia Medical Marijuana Card Requirements and Documentation
Once you meet a qualifying condition, you still must satisfy identity and residency requirements set by the department of public health.
Core medical requirements:
Diagnosis of at least one of the qualifying medical conditions documented in your medical records.
You must consult a licensed physician for certification-specifically, a fully licensed Georgia physician (MD or DO) in good standing.
Physician submission of your certification form directly to the medical cannabis patient registry. Patients cannot self-apply.
Non-medical documentation:
Proof of Georgia residency (e.g., current Georgia driver's license or state ID; additional residency documents may include a utility bill, phone bill, medical bill, or pay stub).
Valid government-issued photo ID.
For caregivers of minors: documentation proving legal guardianship or parental relationship.
Condition-specific criteria still apply. In particular, DPH specifies severe peripheral neuropathy and different autism criteria by age.
Costs and validity:
The state card costs $30, with a $3.75 service fee through the DPH payment portal, totaling $33.75 online. This is separate from GMMC's consultation fee.
Medical marijuana cards in Georgia are valid for five years from the date of issue.
Check the Georgia Department of Public Health's website for current renewal instructions and fees.
The Georgia department of public health verifies information before card issuance.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal? Medical Cannabis in Georgia and the Low THC Oil Card
Georgia's Medical Cannabis Patient Registry is the current name for the program previously called the Low THC Oil Registry. For medical cannabis in Georgia, DPH now states a possession limit of 12,000 milligrams of THC. Older low THC oil guidance may describe different limits; use current state guidance rather than an outdated article. An unexpired low THC oil card remains valid under DPH's published instructions. The state registry is separate from recreational marijuana legalization. Refer to the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission for current rules on permitted products and licensed dispensing locations. Medical use is governed by state law. A valid registration card issued through the Georgia Department of Public Health establishes your registry status; confirm it is active before you possess medical cannabis. Do not assume that a card authorizes every form of cannabis, home cultivation, or possession without limits. Check official rules before relying on claims about smoking cannabis or hemp derived products. Ask the physician your questions about medical marijuana treatment, potential benefits, and risks.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia: Step-by-Step
GMMC offers Georgia medical marijuana consultations by private phone for adults statewide. Physician certification and the state registry process are separate from appointment booking.
Step 1: Confirm likely eligibility
Review the qualifying conditions and check your diagnosis and symptom history.
Gather recent medical records, medication lists, imaging reports, or specialist notes related to your condition.
Step 2: Schedule a telemedicine visit with a Georgia-licensed physician
GMMC charges $100 for a private 15-minute phone consultation with a Georgia-licensed MD. After Calendly booking, our team sends the eVisit link. Payment is collected through eVisit after the visit.
The physician will review your medical history, confirm your diagnosis, and discuss whether medical cannabis is appropriate for your medical care needs.
Step 3: Physician certification and registry entry
If approved, the physician submits your information directly to the Georgia medical cannabis patient registry managed by DPH.
The physician submits required information and documentation. DPH may contact you if additional information is needed.
Step 4: Pay the state fee and receive your card
After verifying your information, DPH emails payment instructions. Online payment totals $33.75. Cards are generally mailed with a signature required; DPH provides a local public health office pickup option for patients using a PO box or without a secure mailing address.
DPH advises allowing up to 10 business days after payment is processed for the card to arrive.
Step 5: Purchase medical cannabis products
Once your card arrives, visit licensed dispensaries or pharmacies to purchase compliant products within your THC limit. You can now legally access medical cannabis across Georgia.
Your Georgia medical marijuana card is valid for five years, but maintain ongoing medical care and follow-up with your certifying physician for renewals and dose adjustments.
If you believe you have a qualifying condition, book a $100 consultation. Approval is not guaranteed. If the physician determines you do not qualify, we refund any consultation fee you paid.
Common Questions About a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia
Does extreme anxiety qualify me for a medical card?
No. Anxiety alone is not a qualifying condition in Georgia. A physician can assess whether you have PTSD meeting the adult eligibility criteria or another listed qualifying diagnosis.
What about an Asperger's diagnosis?
Ask the physician whether your medical records establish an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis that meets the applicable criteria.
Can children get a medical cannabis card?
Yes. Minors with conditions qualify such as epilepsy or severe autism, but a parent or legal guardian must apply as caregiver on their behalf.
Can my doctor recommend medical cannabis for chronic pain that is not "intractable"?
To qualify under pain, your doctor must document that your pain is intractable or resistant to conventional treatments. Simple short-term or mild chronic pain usually does not meet the threshold.
How long does it take to get a card after payment?
DPH advises Georgia residents to allow up to 10 business days after payment is processed. Follow up with the state program about your card status if needed.
Can I use an out-of-state medical marijuana card in Georgia?
Ask the state program about current reciprocity rules before relying on an out-of-state card. This guide concerns Georgia residents seeking physician certification.
Only a Georgia-licensed physician can make the final determination and certify eligibility. Online symptom checkers or non-physician services cannot issue legal certifications. If you think your condition may qualify, the next step is booking a telemedicine evaluation with a licensed Georgia physician to review your case and start the registration process from home.
Preparing for a Georgia Medical Marijuana Card Consultation
How hard is it to get a medical card in Georgia?
The process requires physician evaluation, rather than simply purchasing a card. Gather your medical history, current medication list, and relevant records before the appointment. A clear account of your diagnosis and prior medical treatment helps the physician assess your case. Booking does not guarantee that the physician will recommend medical cannabis.
What could prevent certification?
A physician may determine that the medical evidence does not establish a qualifying condition or the applicable eligibility criteria. Missing documents can also delay the state process. Ask what documentation is needed; do not assume an online symptom checklist replaces the medical evaluation.
Can you get a medical card for post traumatic stress disorder?
Georgia's PTSD category concerns adults age 18 or older whose condition results from direct exposure to or witnessing trauma. The evaluating physician must assess whether your history meets those requirements. An anxiety symptom by itself does not establish PTSD eligibility.
What happens if you fail a workplace drug test?
A medical cannabis registry card should not be treated as a promise of protection under an employer's drug-testing policy. Ask your employer about its policy and seek qualified legal advice about your circumstances. This guide does not determine employment rights under state and federal law.
Renewing or Replacing a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia
A Georgia medical marijuana card has an expiration date printed on its front. DPH says patients must consult their physician for renewal after the five-year validity period. Check the Georgia Department of Public Health's website for renewal instructions before your card expires. A new Calendly appointment does not itself renew a medical marijuana card.
If your card is lost or your information is outdated, contact the state program rather than assuming you need an entirely new medical marijuana evaluation. DPH publishes card-status and contact resources for registered patients. Keep your current driver's license and address information available when following its instructions.
Is an unexpired Low THC Oil card still valid?
DPH confirms that an unexpired Low THC Oil Registry Card remains valid despite the program's name change. The Georgia Medical Cannabis Patient Registry issues newly named cards, but the name change alone does not invalidate an existing card. Check the expiration date on your low THC oil card.
Where should I check medical marijuana dispensing locations?
Use the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission website to find licensed locations. The Medical Cannabis Commission and DPH have different roles: the commission provides dispensing information, while DPH administers the patient registry. A medical marijuana card does not mean every shop or product is authorized.
Can I arrange a medical marijuana card evaluation online?
You can use Calendly to arrange GMMC's adult phone consultation. Searching for a medical marijuana card online does not replace the physician's evaluation, certification, or state review. If you want to get a medical marijuana card in Georgia, start with your diagnosis and records, then follow the physician and state instructions.
Your GMMC Booking and Payment Checklist
Book: Use GMMC's Calendly link for a $100 private, 15-minute phone consultation. GMMC serves adults age 18 and older statewide.
Receive your link: Our team sends your eVisit link after booking. Contact GMMC for general booking help; the contact form does not book an appointment.
Prepare: Choose a private place and have relevant records and questions ready. Keep medical documents and payment details out of the general contact form.
Pay: GMMC collects payment through eVisit after the visit. The state card fee is separate; review pricing and fees.
Refund: If the physician determines you do not qualify, we refund any consultation fee you paid. See the consultation refund policy.
After certification: Follow DPH's documentation and payment instructions. Booking alone does not authorize possession.