Why do I need an Iowa medical marijuana card?

An Iowa medical marijuana card shows that your name has been added to the Iowa medical marijuana registry by a licensed Iowa physician and that the patient is a legal Iowa registered medical marijuana patient. With this card, you can: 1. Buy marijuana from dispensaries in the state of Iowa 2. Possess marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa 3. Consume marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa

Am I guaranteed to get approved for medical marijuana after my appointment?

We can't guarantee approval for anyone, as the doctor is the only person that makes the determination whether or not a patient qualifies. To make it more likely that you receive approval from the doctor, we recommend that you bring as much information as possible to your appointment regarding your medical condition and past treatments. However, you do not have to worry as the entire cost of an appointment will be a nominal flat fee if you, for whatever reason, are not approved by the doctor.

When will I receive my identification card?

Patients will receive their identification card within 1 week of application, if their application is approved.

What is the cost of an Iowa medical marijuana card?

We believe cost shouldn't be a barrier. We offer payment options, including monthly plans and discounts for veterans and referrals. After your first appointment, follow-ups are free for 12 months.

Will my insurance or Medicaid cover the cost of medical marijuana?

Right now, insurance and Medicaid don't cover medical marijuana costs. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the latest updates.

Can minors get a medical marijuana card?

Yes, minors are allowed to get a medical card but they must have a designated caregiver. The parent or legal guardian will apply for the card on behalf of the patient, and once the card is issued, the parent or legal guardian will then apply to be the designated caregiver. The minor will not be issued a card, only the caregiver will.

How long does an Iowa medical marijuana card last?

An Iowa medical marijuana card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. You will need to renew your card annually by scheduling a follow-up appointment with a licensed Iowa physician before your card expires. It's recommended to start the renewal process at least 30 days before your expiration date to ensure continuous access to medical marijuana.

Can I use my Iowa medical marijuana card in other states?

Iowa does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states, which means your Iowa medical marijuana card is only valid within Iowa. However, some states do recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards. If you're traveling, it's important to research the specific laws of the state you're visiting, as medical marijuana laws vary significantly from state to state.

What forms of medical marijuana are available in Iowa?

Iowa allows several forms of medical marijuana products including oils, tinctures, capsules, topicals, and other manufactured forms. The state does not permit smoking or vaping of raw plant material. All products must be purchased from state-licensed dispensaries and contain no more than 4.5 grams of THC per 90-day supply. Products are available in various CBD to THC ratios to meet different patient needs.

Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Iowa

Q: Do I qualify for medical marijuana in the state of Iowa?

Iowa's Department of Health has approved a number of qualifying conditions that allow patients to access medical marijuana in Iowa. The qualifying conditions identified by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services include: Cancer (if the illness or its treatment produces severe or chronic pain, nausea or severe vomiting, cachexia or severe wasting), Seizures, Crohn's disease, Chronic pain, Multiple Sclerosis with severe and persistent muscle spasms, AIDS or HIV, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Any terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of under one year, Ulcerative colitis, Severe intractable pediatric autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, Severe intractable autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, and Corticobasal Degeneration.

Christopher D.
Jun 5
4 min read

In Iowa, recreational marijuana is strictly illegal, and possession of even a small amount is considered a misdemeanor offense. The state does operate a limited medical marijuana program that offers relief to patients with qualifying medical conditions.

Under Iowa law, registered medical marijuana patients can legally purchase and possess marijuana products with no more than 4.5 grams of total THC over 90 days. While this cap might seem strict compared to other states, it does provide essential access to relief for thousands of Iowans suffering from chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, and more.

If you or a loved one suffers from a qualifying condition, the first step to safe and legal access is getting an Iowa marijuana card.

Why You Need an Iowa Medical Marijuana Card

Having a state-issued medical marijuana card is the only legal way to obtain marijuana in Iowa. Without it, you risk criminal charges, even for possessing a small amount. Here’s why getting a card is the right move:

Legal Protection: Possession with a valid card is legal under Iowa law; without it, it’s a criminal offense.
Access to Regulated Dispensaries: Only cardholders can buy from Iowa’s state-licensed dispensaries.
Doctor-Guided Treatment: Patients receive expert guidance from certified medical professionals - that’s where we will come in!

Don’t risk your health or your freedom. If you have a qualifying condition, securing a marijuana card provides safe and legal access to relief.

Iowa’s Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

Iowa has a small but reliable network of medical marijuana dispensaries. Each is licensed by the Iowa Department of Health and operates under strict regulations. As of now, there are five licensed medical dispensary locations serving different regions of the state.

Bud & Mary's – Windsor Heights

Located in the Des Moines metro area, Bud & Mary's was the first licensed dispensary in Iowa. They offer a selection of THC and CBD products tailored for qualifying patients, including tinctures, capsules, topicals, and vaporized forms.

Iowa Cannabis Company – Waterloo

The Iowa Cannabis Company in Waterloo serves eastern Iowa and provides pharmacist-guided consultations. They focus on education and personalized care.

Iowa Cannabis Company East – Iowa City

Serving the college town and surrounding communities, Iowa Cannabis Company East offers a full line of medical marijuana products for qualifying patients.

Iowa Cannabis Company West – Council Bluffs

Residents in western Iowa, including those near the Nebraska border, can visit Iowa Cannabis Company West for their medical marijuana needs.

Bud & Mary's – Sioux City

This location serves the northwest corner of Iowa. They offer the same high-quality products and patient care that Bud & Mary's is known for across the state.

Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice

Living with a chronic or debilitating condition can be incredibly difficult. Iowa’s medical marijuana program provides a safe, physician-guided, and legally protected way to manage symptoms and improve daily life. Unlike over-the-counter medications or prescription opioids, medical marijuana offers natural relief that can be tailored to your individual needs. With a valid Iowa marijuana card, patients can access legal treatment options without turning to risky alternatives or breaking the law.

To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Iowa, you must have a qualifying medical condition. As of 2025, approved conditions include: Cancer, Seizures, Crohn’s disease, Chronic pain, Multiple Sclerosis with severe and persistent muscle spasms, AIDS or HIV, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), any terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of under one year, Ulcerative colitis, severe, intractable pediatric autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, severe, intractable autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, and Corticobasal Degeneration.

Once a licensed physician verifies your diagnosis, you can apply for a Medical Marijuana Registration Card through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.

Summary

While Iowa’s medical marijuana program remains more limited than those in many other states, it serves as a critical and compassionate lifeline for patients living with chronic and debilitating conditions. With only five licensed dispensaries operating statewide, access may be tightly regulated, but the system is designed with patient safety, medical oversight, and legal compliance at its core. Each dispensary offers pharmacist-guided support, lab-tested products, and personalized care, ensuring patients receive the relief they need without risking legal consequences.

For those struggling with chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, or other qualifying conditions, the ability to legally obtain medical marijuana can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day quality of life. Iowa’s program may be modest in scope, but its impact on the lives of patients is anything but small.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We are currently not seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa, but we will be soon!

Don’t delay! Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors and save $25 on the cost of the evaluation! We’ll set up an appointment for you just as soon as we start seeing patients.

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, simply reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!