Colorado was a pioneer in cannabis legalization, legalizing medical use in 2000 and recreational use in 2012. Adults 21+ can possess up to 1 oz of cannabis and grow up to 6 plants (3 mature) at home. Medical patients register with the state ($29.50 fee) and can possess up to 2 oz. Colorado has a 15% retail excise tax and 15% sales tax on recreational cannabis. Medical cannabis is not subject to these taxes. The state has generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue since legalization. Colorado allows online ordering and pickup at dispensaries as of 2024. The state has extensive regulations covering everything from product testing to packaging requirements. Colorado also allows some forms of social consumption and has been working on expungement of past cannabis convictions.
The process includes: 1) Get diagnosed with a qualifying condition, 2) Obtain certification from a licensed Colorado physician, 3) Submit application to the Colorado Department of Public Health with certification and required documents, 4) Pay the application fee, 5) Receive your medical marijuana registry card.
Qualifying conditions include: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, muscle spasms, severe pain, severe nausea, epilepsy, cachexia/wasting syndrome, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, and any condition for which a physician would prescribe an opioid.
The Colorado Department of Revenue's Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) regulates both medical and recreational cannabis. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment manages the medical marijuana registry.
Yes, patients must register with the Colorado Medical Marijuana Registry operated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Both medical and recreational users can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. Colorado has separate medical dispensaries and recreational stores, though some operate as both.
The application fee is $29.50, and cards are valid for one year. The fee is waived for indigent patients. Physician consultation fees are separate and vary by provider. As of December 2024, there were 62,320 patients in the registry.
