Arkansas has a medical-only cannabis program serving over 100,000 patients. Medical marijuana was legalized in 2016 through voter approval. Recreational use remains illegal after voters rejected legalization in 2022. Patients can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis every 14 days from licensed dispensaries, but home cultivation is prohibited. There are 18 qualifying conditions, including chronic pain that hasn't responded to treatment for 6+ months. Registration costs $50 annually plus physician certification fees ($150-250). A 2024 proposal to expand the medical program and create a trigger for adult-use legalization
The process includes: 1) Get diagnosed with a qualifying condition, 2) Obtain written certification from an Arkansas-licensed MD or DO, 3) Complete an application through the ADH online portal or by mail with the certification and required documentation, 4) Pay the application fee, 5) Receive your medical marijuana card within approximately 14 days of submission.
Qualifying conditions include: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, ALS, Tourette's syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, PTSD, severe arthritis, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer's disease, and conditions causing cachexia/wasting syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, intractable pain (for 6+ months), severe nausea, seizures, or severe/persistent muscle spasms.
The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) oversees the medical marijuana registry and issues patient cards. The Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Division within the Department of Finance and Administration regulates dispensaries and cultivation facilities.
Yes, patients must register with the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) to receive a medical marijuana card.
Qualified patients with an Arkansas medical marijuana card can purchase cannabis from any of the state-licensed dispensaries. As of 2025, there are over 30 operational dispensaries across the state.
The application fee is $50, and cards must be renewed annually for the same fee. Physician certification fees are separate and typically range from $150-250, though insurance generally doesn't cover these visits.
