Getting your medical marijuana card in Florida is a big first step—but now what? If you’re newly certified and wondering how to actually use your card, this guide will walk you through the entire process. From picking up your first prescription to understanding legal limits, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re treating chronic pain, PTSD, or another qualifying condition, knowing how to use your card is key to safe, legal relief.
1. Start with Your Approval Email
Once your doctor submits your information to the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU), you’ll typically receive email approval within 5 to 10 business days. This digital approval allows you to shop at licensed dispensaries immediately—no need to wait for the physical card to arrive in the mail.
Just bring a valid photo ID and your approval email to any licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) in Florida.
2. Shop at Licensed Dispensaries Only
In Florida, only state-approved MMTCs are legally allowed to sell cannabis products. These dispensaries operate under strict guidelines and offer a wide range of options tailored to your condition and doctor’s recommendation.
Some popular dispensary chains include:
Trulieve
MÜV
Surterra Wellness
Fluent
Curaleaf
Pro tip: Dispensary staff (often called “budtenders”) are trained to help you find the right product for your needs.
3. Know What You Can Buy
Florida’s medical marijuana program allows for several types of products, depending on what your physician recommends. With your card, you may have access to:
Flower (smokable cannabis)
Vape cartridges
Tinctures and oils
Edibles
Capsules
Topicals and patches
Each product has its own benefits. If you’re unsure, dispensary staff can guide you based on your condition and tolerance level.
4. Understand Usage Limits
Florida has specific limits on how much cannabis you can purchase within a set timeframe:
Smokable Flower: Up to 2.5 ounces per 35 days
Other Routes (edibles, vapes, oils): Based on a 70-day supply, determined by your doctor
Your physician can adjust these limits if medically necessary. Be sure to check your recommendation in the state registry, especially if you’re exploring different product types.
5. Never Cross State Lines with Cannabis
Even though Florida allows medical marijuana use, cannabis is still illegal under federal law. That means you cannot:
Bring it on a plane
Take it across state lines
Possess it on federal property (like military bases or national parks)
Stay safe and legal by keeping your use within Florida.
6. Renew on Time
There are two key renewals you need to track:
Your doctor’s recommendation must be renewed every 210 days
Your state-issued MMJ card must be renewed once a year through the OMMU (currently $75)
Set reminders so you don’t lose access to your medication.
7. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
Do not drive under the influence of cannabis—it’s illegal and unsafe.
Store your products in original, labeled packaging.
Keep cannabis out of reach of children and pets.
Only use cannabis in private spaces—never in public.
Responsible use protects your rights and helps normalize cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment.
8. Take Advantage of Discounts
Florida dispensaries often offer:
First-time patient promos
Veteran and military discounts
Loyalty rewards programs
And here’s a bonus: Green Dream Cards in Westside Jacksonville offers discounted medical marijuana evaluations for all military and veteran patients, plus 100% approval for chronic pain and PTSD. If you haven’t gotten certified yet or need to renew, we’ve got your back.
Conclusion: You’re on the Right Path
Using your medical marijuana card in Florida is simpler than it seems. Now that you’re certified, you can start exploring natural relief with confidence and support.
