Renew
California’s Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) Program continues to support patients who rely on cannabis for medical purposes. Keeping your MMIC current is essential for maintaining uninterrupted medical access. Below is how renewal works in California and what patients should know.
Do you have to renew a medical marijuana card in California?
Yes. California MMICs are typically valid for up to one year and must be renewed before expiration to maintain active medical access. Renewals are handled through your local county health department under the oversight of the California Department of Public Health.
How to renew a medical marijuana card in California
Renewing your MMIC generally involves the following steps:
Consultation with a Physician: Obtain a current medical marijuana recommendation from a California-licensed physician regulated by the Medical Board of California or the Osteopathic Medical Board of California. In some cases, an existing recommendation may be reused if it remains valid.
Gather Required Documentation: Prepare proof of identity, proof of California residency, your physician recommendation, and any caregiver documentation if applicable.
Submit Your Renewal Through Your County: File your renewal in person at your local county health office (some counties also accept renewals by mail). California does not allow MMIC renewals to be completed online.
Pay the County Fee: Submit the applicable county renewal fee at the time of application.
Wait for Approval: County processing may take up to five weeks. Once approved, your renewed MMIC is issued.
How long is a California medical marijuana card good for?
A California MMIC is generally valid for up to 12 months. A primary caregiver’s card expires at the same time as the associated patient’s card. Patients should renew before expiration to avoid any lapse in medical access.
How much does it cost to renew a medical marijuana card in California?
Counties may charge up to $100 for an MMIC renewal. Medi-Cal beneficiaries qualify for a 50% reduction, and some county medical services participants may receive full fee waivers. These county fees are separate from physician consultation costs, which are set by the provider.