What Is the Cost of a Medical Marijuana Card in California in 2026?

There are two main costs associated with obtaining a medical marijuana card in California.

Physician Recommendation: Patients must receive a recommendation from a California-licensed physician authorized through the Medical Board of California or the Osteopathic Medical Board of California. The cost of a medical marijuana evaluation varies by provider and is paid directly to the healthcare professional.

County Registration Fee: After receiving a physician recommendation, patients must apply for a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) through their local county health department under the oversight of the California Department of Public Health. Counties may charge up to $100 for an MMIC application or renewal, with Medi-Cal patients eligible for a 50% reduction and some county medical services participants qualifying for full fee waivers.

Some licensed dispensaries in California may also offer discounts or assistance programs for eligible patients. Availability varies by location, so patients should check directly with dispensaries for details on any special offerings.