How to Get an Arkansas Medical Marijuana Card in 2026
This guide covers how to get a medical marijuana card in Arkansas in 2026: confirm eligibility, see an Arkansas-licensed physician, submit the official ADH application, and shop only at licensed stores. ADH issues the registry card—Ozark Medical Care explains the steps and helps you book an evaluation.
Step 1 — Confirm you have a qualifying condition
Arkansas recognizes 18 qualifying conditions under Amendment 98 § 2(13). Named diseases include cancer, PTSD, severe arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Symptom pathways include intractable pain (ordinary treatment failed for more than six months), severe nausea, and seizures. Anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, ADHD, autism, and opioid use disorder are not on the list.
Step 2 — See an Arkansas-licensed MD or DO
Your certifying physician must be an Arkansas-licensed MD or DO with a DEA controlled-substance registration, good standing, and a bona fide physician-patient relationship. Book through Arkansas medical marijuana doctors.
Accuracy callout: Initial certification cannot be done by telemedicine in Arkansas. Renewals can.
Step 3 — Get the official Physician Written Certification
Use the official ADH Physician Written Certification form (rev. 03/2024 or current). A free-text “recommendation letter” is not enough. The written certification should reach ADH with a complete, paid application within 30 days of the physician’s signature.
Download ADH Patient Application + Physician Written Certification (PDF)
Forms index: ADH Medical Marijuana Forms.
Step 4 — Apply at mmj.adh.arkansas.gov and pay $50
Complete the official ADH application online (preferred) or by mail. The patient registry fee is $50, non-refundable. The online application takes debit or credit cards only (no American Express); mailed paper applications take a check or money order. Upload a photocopy of the front of your Arkansas driver’s license or state ID on a full sheet.
Official ADH registry portal: https://mmj.adh.arkansas.gov
Step 5 — Wait up to 14 days and print your card
ADH may take up to 14 days after a complete filing and payment. Incomplete applications are returned and restart the clock. If you applied online, log back in to print the card after approval. Physical cards are mailed the next working day. There is no temporary card and no same-day state card.
Step 6 — Shop only at licensed Arkansas dispensaries
After approval, purchase only at licensed Arkansas dispensaries. The limit is 2.5 ounces per rolling 14-day window. Arkansas does not allow home grow. When it is time to renew your card, renewals may use telehealth for the physician visit.
Documents you must upload
- Completed patient application (online portal preferred)
- Physician Written Certification (doctor completes / submits)
- Photo of Arkansas DL or state ID
- $50 payment (debit/credit card online, no AmEx; check or money order only if mailing)
- Caregiver packet only if needed: $50 caregiver card + $40 background check
Who cannot get a card
U.S. military members and Arkansas National Guard members are barred from registry cards. Minors may qualify only when a parent or legal guardian registers as caregiver; the minor does not purchase product. Always confirm eligibility on official ADH pages.
First-time vs renewal
First-time physician certification is in person. Recertification may use telehealth under Act 1112 / 17 CAR § 140-3201. The ADH patient fee remains $50 at renewal. For fee breakdowns including clinic ranges, see medical marijuana card cost.
FAQs
How long does ADH take to issue a card?
ADH may take up to 14 days after a complete application and payment. Incomplete applications are returned and restart the clock.
Can my first physician certification be done by telehealth?
No. Initial certification must be in person with an Arkansas-licensed MD or DO. Renewals may use telehealth.
Is a doctor’s recommendation letter enough?
No. You must use the official ADH Physician Written Certification form. A free-text recommendation letter is not accepted.
Who cannot get an Arkansas medical marijuana card?
U.S. military members and Arkansas National Guard members are ineligible. Minors may qualify only with a parent or legal guardian registered as caregiver; the minor does not buy.
What is the purchase limit after approval?
Qualified patients may purchase up to 2.5 ounces per rolling 14-day window at licensed dispensaries. Arkansas does not allow home grow.
Last verified: 17 September 2026.