Since voters approved State Question 788 in 2018, the state’s program has become one of the most patient-friendly in the country. Unlike other states with strict qualifying conditions, Oklahoma gives doctors and patients more flexibility to decide whether medical marijuana is the right choice.
However, there are still regulations you need to follow. Here are the common rules of a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma.
Who Can Qualify?
Oklahoma is more flexible than in other states. The state leaves it up to licensed doctors to decide if medical marijuana could help you. If you are dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, or even sleep disorders, your doctor may recommend cannabis as a treatment option.
However, there are some basic eligibility requirements to obtain a card. First, you must be an Oklahoma resident. You will need to show proof with a state ID, driver’s license, or other official documentation.
Minors under 18 can participate in the program. However, they will need recommendations from two licensed doctors. Along with that, a parent or guardian must apply as the child’s caregiver to manage their medical marijuana use.
Submitting Your Application Online
All applications are submitted through the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) website. The online process is user-friendly. Applicants must upload their documents, fill out the necessary forms, and pay the application fee to receive a card. In most cases, this is $100. However, if you qualify for Medicaid (SoonerCare) or Medicare, you can receive a reduced fee of $20.
Once submitted, it usually takes about 14 days for the OMMA to review your application and approve or deny it. If approved, you can receive your card in the mail shortly after.
Using a Medical Marijuana Card
Once you have your card, you have the legal right to purchase and use medical marijuana in Oklahoma. Keep in mind that there are a few restrictions.
Purchasing products must be done at a state-licensed dispensary. There are thousands across the state, and you have several product options, such as
- Flowers
- Edibles
- Oils
- Tinctures
- Topicals
When you visit a dispensary, you must show your medical marijuana card and ID. If a dispensary does not verify IDs and sell to an unauthorized person, they could lose their license from the OMMA.
Along with that, there are certain limits on how much cannabis you can have at one time. As a cardholder, you can possess:
- Up to 3 ounces of marijuana on your person
- Up to 8 ounces at your home
- 72 ounces of edibles
- 1 ounce of concentrated cannabis
- You can grow up to six mature plants and have six seedlings
What Other Rules Apply?
When you have a medical marijuana card, you cannot use cannabis anywhere or however you want. There are still rules in place to ensure compliance with the law.
No Public Use
Using marijuana in public spaces, like parks or restaurants, is not allowed. Your medical marijuana card gives you the right to use cannabis, but it must be done in private.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
Driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal in Oklahoma, just like driving under the influence of alcohol. Even if you’re using marijuana for medical purposes, you could face serious legal consequences if caught driving while impaired.
Keep Your Card Current
Medical marijuana cards in Oklahoma are valid for two years. They must be renewed before they expire. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, so keep your documentation updated.
Oklahoma Still Has Laws Regarding Medical Marijuana Use
Now that you know the common rules of a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma, you can stay safe and compliant in the state. Cannabis businesses also need to be aware of these regulations. Otherwise, they could lose their licenses and, ultimately, their livelihood.
If you would like to learn more about how these laws could affect you, reach out to Brune Law. Schedule a consultation by calling 918-380-3628.