Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut (2025)

Connecticut’s Medical Marijuana Program, administered by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), provides eligible residents with access to medical cannabis for the treatment of recognized debilitating health conditions. While recreational cannabis is also legal in Connecticut, medical patients benefit from higher possession limits and tax exemptions.

Reference: DCP Qualification Requirements

Qualifying Medical Conditions

As of 2025, Connecticut recognizes over 40 specific debilitating conditions for adults and 11 for minors. Patients must be diagnosed by a Connecticut-licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant.

Common adult qualifying conditions include:

  • Cancer
  • Glaucoma
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  • Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Chronic neuropathic pain
  • Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Intractable headaches
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Terminal illness (with a prognosis of less than 12 months to live)
  • Other chronic, debilitating conditions as approved by the DCP Board of Physicians

See the latest complete list at: Connecticut DCP Qualifying Conditions

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a Connecticut resident (with proof of residency required)
  • Be at least 18 years old (minors may qualify with two physician certifications and a designated caregiver)
  • Receive certification for a qualifying condition from a licensed CT healthcare provider
  • Not be incarcerated under Department of Corrections supervision

Application Process

  1. Get Certified by a Provider:
    Book a telemedicine or in-person consultation with a Connecticut-licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant. If eligible, your provider submits a certification to the DCP.
  2. Register Online:
    Once certified, the patient receives instructions by email to complete registration and upload required documents (proof of identity, CT residency, passport-style photo).
  3. Complete Application:
    Fill out the online form through the DCP’s portal. You may request a caregiver at this stage if needed.
  4. Await Approval:
    DCP reviews applications and typically emails a temporary registration certificate within 30 days. Print this certificate to use at dispensaries; a permanent card is sent by mail.
  5. Purchasing & Possession Limits:
    Registered patients may purchase up to 5.0 ounces per month from state-licensed dispensaries.

    Reference: DCP Monthly Allotment Update

Caregivers & Minors

Patients who are minors or those requiring assistance may designate a caregiver, who must also apply through the state and meet eligibility criteria. Minors require two physician certifications, including from a specialist experienced with their condition.

Official Resources & Links