How to Become a Caregiver in New Jersey

Medical marijuana is legal in 37 states, making it very popular. However, this popularity is not necessarily matched by accessibility. That’s because many people can’t buy medical marijuana by themselves, especially the old or sick people who cannot visit the dispensaries by themselves.

Along with accessibility, many states don’t allow those under 18 to apply for MMJ cards themselves, even if they have a qualifying condition. Marijuana is nature’s gift, and accessibility should not be a barrier to those who need it. That’s where the New Jersey medical marijuana caregiver process comes into play.

New Jersey medical marijuana caregivers are a significant part of the medical marijuana program in the Garden State. Without them, many patients will find accessibility difficult. Still, many people don’t know how to become a medical marijuana caregiver in NJ. Some aren’t even familiar with what these individuals do. That’s why we’re here to explain it all. Below, we’ve thoroughly covered the ins and outs of caregiver jobs in New Jersey. 

What Are New Jersey Caregivers?

An MMJ caregiver in NJ refers to a person the state has designated to purchase, transfer, and occasionally administer medical cannabis products for those who cannot. This can refer to minors, as the law does not allow those under 18 to have a medical card independently.

The program will assign caregivers on behalf of those who may not be able to access cannabis easily, either due to age—patients 18 and younger can’t enroll in the medical cannabis program by themselves—or disability. 

New Jersey medical marijuana caregivers must undergo a similar registration process to patients getting their medical marijuana cards. It requires specific paperwork and typically a background check or fingerprint analysis, depending on the state, to ensure the potential caregiver’s qualifications. 

Once you’ve received your caregiver’s license, you’re allowed to go to dispensaries and purchase medical marijuana on behalf of your patient. Typically, designated caregivers will be a parent or guardian for minors, while those with disabilities may have a friend, family member, or medical professional become their caregiver. It’s entirely up to you! 

Why Be a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in NJ?

So, why would someone choose to become a New Jersey medical marijuana caregiver? For some, it’s all about making a difference in the world, but usually, caregivers are simply interested in helping out someone close to them.

Imagine finding a medication that works for you but you cannot get it when needed. That’s what happens with minors and those with disabilities or accessibility complications: getting their MMJ is practically impossible without the help of a medical marijuana caregiver in NJ.

By becoming a medical marijuana caregiver in NJ, you help someone access the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. You improve their life. 

New Jersey Medical Marijuana Caregiver Qualifications 

The MMJ caregiver registration process in NJ is pretty straightforward. To qualify for caregiver jobs in New Jersey, the necessary qualifications include the following:

• You must be a New Jersey resident 
• You have to be at least 18 years old or older
• Agree to assist your patient with the use/consumption of medical marijuana
• Submit to a criminal history/background check
• You cannot be the patient’s physician  

LEARN MORE: New Jersey Marijuana Laws

New Jersey medical marijuana Caregiver Process FAQs

Can a medical marijuana caregiver in NJ have more than one patient? 

Yes, in New Jersey, a designated caregiver may work for more than one patient at a time. 

Can New Jersey medical marijuana caregivers also be MMJ patients?

Yes, New Jersey medical marijuana caregivers are allowed to be medical marijuana patients themselves.  

What happens if you have a criminal history? 

Unfortunately, you cannot be an MMJ caregiver in NJ if you have a criminal history. That is why the New Jersey medical marijuana caregiver registration process requires a criminal history background check to ensure everything is clear. 

How much does the New Jersey caregiver process cost?

The registration fee to become a medical marijuana caregiver in NJ is $100. However, if the caregiver is a veteran, senior, or receives forms of government assistance, the fee is reduced significantly to just $20.  

How to become a caregiver in New Jersey

Luckily, applying to be a New Jersey caregiver is quite a simple process, as long as you have all you need. Visit the New Jersey Medicinal Marijuana Program website and fill out an application. 

Note: During the application, you’ll need to upload various documents for proof of identity, residency, and more.

First, you need a government-issued ID. This can be an NJ County ID card, a current NJ digital non-driver ID card, or a current NJ digital license. In addition, you must upload a clear, unedited version of a photo of yourself against a white background, and the image has to be in either JPEG or GIF form.

Along with proof of ID, you need to prove that you’re a current New Jersey resident. You can submit a utility bill issued within the past 90 days (as long as it shows your current address and name) or any proof of correspondence between you and the IRS or NJ State tax office within the past year. 

Finally, the NJMMP will ask you to print and fill out their Criminal Background Investigation Form to ensure no legal issues prevent you from becoming a New Jersey medical marijuana caregiver. Once you’ve filled out the forms and attached the proper documents, you will pay the registration fee and submit your application. Soon, the MMP will reach out with a decision on your caregiver status.  

Becoming a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in NJ through Elevate Holistics

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all of this information? Don’t worry! Elevate is here to be your helping hand. Our marijuana experts are here to assist you in every way, from becoming an MMJ patient to telling you how to become a caregiver in New Jersey.  

So, if you need help with the caregiver process or are just curious about New Jersey’s MMJ program, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Click the scheduler below to book your own appointment with Elevate and obtain an NJ MMJ card entirely online.

New Jersey Patient Resources

• The Best New Jersey Marijuana Brands to Buy With a Medical Card
• Finding the Right New Jersey Dispensary for You
• Are Edibles Legal in New Jersey?
• New Jersey MMJ FAQs