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Updated 14/08/2025
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) oversees the medical cannabis authorization and recognition card process. To renew in 2025, first schedule a visit with your practitioner to obtain a signed authorization using the Washington State Medical Cannabis Authorization Form. Next, book an appointment with a certified medical cannabis consultant at one of the state’s medically-endorsed marijuana stores. At the appointment, the consultant reviews your authorization and prints your renewed recognition card.
Renewal is tied to the validity period of the medical cannabis authorization. For adults (18 and older), an authorization may be valid for up to one year from the date of issuance. For minors, an authorization may be valid for up to six months. Renew the recognition card when the authorization expires, or sooner if your health care professional specifies a shorter duration.
Begin the renewal process several weeks before your medical cannabis authorization expires to prevent any lapse in your recognition card and access to products. Renewal timing follows the authorization’s duration (commonly up to one year for adults and up to six months for minors), or earlier if your health care professional sets a shorter period.
The renewal cost includes a $1 state fee collected when a medically endorsed retailer prints your recognition card. Retailers may charge an additional card-issuance fee above the $1 remitted to the state, so total renewal cost typically ranges from $1 to $10 depending on the store. Separate out-of-pocket costs may apply for the health care visit to renew your medical cannabis authorization.
Yes. To renew your Washington medical marijuana card, you must obtain a new medical cannabis authorization from a Washington-licensed health care professional. Authorized professionals include medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, advanced registered nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and naturopathic physicians. The clinician evaluates your condition and, if you qualify, completes and signs the state authorization form. After receiving the renewed authorization, present it with government-issued identification at a medically endorsed retail store to have your recognition card reprinted.
If your Washington medical cannabis recognition card expires, you lose patient benefits under state law until renewal is completed. To restore your status, obtain a new medical cannabis authorization from a Washington-licensed health care professional, then present the authorization with government-issued identification at a medically endorsed retail store to have your card reprinted. Renew before the expiration date to avoid gaps in access and protections.