Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas residents with certain health conditions can legally access medical cannabis through the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Program overseen by the Department of Health. The process involves specific qualifying conditions, documentation, and steps that ensure only those with legitimate medical needs receive cards.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
Patients must be diagnosed by an Arkansas-licensed physician with one or more of the following conditions:
- AIDS/HIV
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Cachexia or wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- Fibromyalgia
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- Intractable pain (more than 6 months, unresponsive to other treatment)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Severe arthritis
- Severe and persistent muscle spasms
- Severe nausea
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Ulcerative colitis
- Any other condition approved by the Arkansas Department of Health (petitions can be submitted)
For updates and petitioning to add a new condition, patients should visit the
Arkansas Department of Health Medical Marijuana page.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a resident of Arkansas with proof of residency (state driver’s license or ID)
- Be 18 years or older, or a minor with a parent/guardian registered as caregiver
- Obtain a written certification from an Arkansas-licensed MD or DO for a qualifying condition
- Not be a member of the Arkansas National Guard or U.S. Military (per state law)
Application Process
- Get Physician Certification:
Make an appointment with an Arkansas-licensed physician (in-person for initial certification). Secure their official written certification for your qualifying condition. - Prepare Documentation:
Gather proof of age, Arkansas residency, and your completed physician certification. - Apply Online or By Mail:
Visit the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Patient Registry System to submit an online application, or mail application forms to the Department of Health. - Pay the Fee:
There is a $50 non-refundable application fee. - Await Approval:
Processing takes up to 14 days. Once approved, you can print your medical marijuana card or receive it by mail. - Use Your Card:
Present your valid card at Arkansas-licensed dispensaries to obtain medical cannabis products.
Caregivers and Minors
Minors and physically disabled qualifying patients can designate a caregiver (21+). Caregivers must apply separately and meet all state requirements, including background checks. Only caregivers—not minors—may purchase medical marijuana from dispensaries for patients under 18.