FAQs
Louisiana patient questions, answered.
Plain-language answers about recommendations, evaluations, consultation costs, pharmacy visits, and Louisiana law.
Program rules change. Verify current requirements with the Louisiana Department of Health or a licensed clinician.
Do I need a physical medical marijuana card in Louisiana?
No. Louisiana does not issue a state patient ID card. A licensed Louisiana clinician’s written recommendation is your authorization.
Is there a state registration or application?
No. Louisiana has no state patient registration or application. Your clinician sends the written recommendation electronically to the licensed pharmacy you choose.
Does Louisiana have a closed list of qualifying conditions?
No. A licensed Louisiana clinician determines whether a condition is debilitating and whether a recommendation is appropriate. Examples on this site are not a checklist or a guarantee of approval.
Can an evaluation happen by telehealth?
Yes. Evaluations are available in person or by telehealth. Ask your clinician about appointment availability and what to prepare.
What should I bring to an evaluation?
Bring a Louisiana driver’s license or state-issued ID. Relevant medical records can help your clinician review your history; ask the office what it needs before your appointment.
How much does an appointment cost?
Clinician consultations typically cost $100–$400. To obtain authorization, you pay the clinician’s consultation fee, not a state application, registration, or card fee. Ask for the total appointment price before booking. Pharmacy purchases are separate.
Does the state charge a fee?
No. State patient fees are $0. There is no state patient ID card, registration, or application fee.
How long is a recommendation valid?
Recommendations are valid for 12 months. A new clinician evaluation is required to renew. Check the expiration date on your recommendation and arrange renewal before it expires.
How does a dispensary receive a recommendation?
Your licensed Louisiana clinician sends the written recommendation electronically to your chosen licensed pharmacy. Confirm that the pharmacy has received it before visiting.
What identification do I need?
Bring a valid Louisiana driver’s license or state-issued ID. Contact your pharmacy before visiting to confirm its identification requirements.
How much can a dispensary dispense?
A pharmacy may dispense up to 2.5 ounces of raw flower per patient every 14 days. This is a dispensing limit, not permission for recreational possession or use.
Can I grow cannabis at home?
No. Home cultivation is not permitted under Louisiana’s medical marijuana program.
Can I take medical cannabis across state lines?
No. Federal law prohibits cannabis, including interstate transport. A Louisiana recommendation does not authorize carrying cannabis across state lines.
Is recreational use legal in Louisiana?
No. Recreational use remains illegal in Louisiana. The medical program requires a licensed clinician’s written recommendation.
What should I know about medical cannabis and work?
Review your employer’s policies before making workplace decisions. Legal protections depend on the employer, role, and circumstances; a qualified Louisiana attorney can advise on your situation.
Can this website tell me whether cannabis is right for me?
No. This is a general information resource, not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician who understands your health history can discuss your individual situation.
Are the dispensary listings real businesses?
The directory lists Louisiana pharmacy operators and retail locations. Records marked VERIFY still need confirmed street addresses and display a details-being-confirmed note.
Does the contact form send my message?
No. The contact form is not connected to a delivery service. Submitting the preview does not send or store your message. Do not include personal health information.