Medical Marijuana Iowa Frequently Asked Questions

Unfortunately, medical marijuana is not yet fully legal in Iowa. The state has crafted a program that allows “medical cannabis” for patients with qualifying conditions, but the products allowed are limited. 

The law states that the products sold at Iowa dispensaries cannot contain “more than a combined total of four and one-half grams of total THC to a patient in a 90-day period.” Essentially, this means that medical patients have access to products with THC, but they must be offset by CBD percentages.

Until 2020, CBD products in Iowa couldn’t contain more than 3% THC. Thankfully, the state eliminated this regulation, understanding that some patients may require higher THC percentages than others.

Thankfully, yes, CBD is legal in Iowa. The Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Act 2017 legalized CBD for patients with qualifying medical conditions. At the time, there was a 3% THC cap on these products, but that has since been lifted. Today, you can purchase marijuana-derived CBD products of varying types from the limited dispensaries around the state.

To apply for a medical card in Iowa, you have to first meet with a qualified practitioner that can verify you qualify for medical cannabidiol.

Once they approve you and you have certification, you’ll head on over to the Iowa Department of Public Health website. Simply follow the prompt they provide and fill out the information needed. The site states that IDPH medical card applications may be approved in as little as 24 hours.

As soon as the IDPH approves you for medical cannabidiol and you get your card, you can visit a dispensary and start shopping. The process for getting your IDPH medical card is a lot more straightforward and quick than other states’ processes.

In Iowa, medical cannabidiol isn’t prescribed. Once you have your medical card, you can simply visit one of the state’s dispensaries and purchase the products you want and need.

In terms of getting your medical card recommendation, any MD, DO, ARNP, PA, APRN, or podiatrist in Iowa can certify you. You just have to find a doctor that’s willing to give MMJ a chance.

To get an Iowa medical card, you have to pay a fee of $100 or $25 with a copy of your Social Security Disability or Medicaid card. On top of this, you may also have to pay for your appointment with your qualifying physician. The cost of these appointments varies depending on where you go.

Getting a medical card in Iowa doesn’t take too long. When you apply, the state may process your application within 24 hours. If not, it should only take a few days (about 3-5). As soon as you’re approved, the state sends you a temporary medical card so you can start purchasing your products right away. When your permanent card is ready, you can pick it up at any Iowa DMV or courthouse.