You can renew your California medical marijuana recommendation online, with no office visit. A licensed California physician reviews your health history over a secure video visit, and if you still qualify you get a new digital recommendation the same day. Renewal costs $39.99, the same as a first evaluation, and you pay nothing if you are not approved.
When should you renew?
Renew 2 to 4 weeks before the expiration date printed on your recommendation letter. A California recommendation is usually valid for up to 12 months. Renewing early keeps your dispensary access open with no gap.
If your recommendation has already expired, you can still renew. The doctor treats it as a new evaluation, and the steps are the same.
How does online renewal work?
- Fill in the questionnaire. Confirm your details and tell us if your health or treatment has changed since your last visit.
- Meet the doctor by video. A licensed California physician reviews your answers on a HIPAA-compliant video call.
- Get your new recommendation. If you are approved, your digital PDF arrives the same day and the original letter is mailed to you.
See the full process on how it works.
What do you need to renew?
- A valid California ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID card
- Your current or expired recommendation letter, if you have it
- Any changes in your health, symptoms or medications
You do not need new medical records if your condition has not changed. See the qualifying conditions if you are unsure.
How much does renewal cost?
Renewal is $39.99. It includes your same-day digital recommendation and the original letter by mail. A wallet-size photo ID card is an optional $20 add-on. If the doctor does not approve you, you get a full refund.
Is renewal automatic?
No. Every renewal is a new physician review. The doctor confirms that medical cannabis is still right for you before issuing a new recommendation. Approval is never automatic.
Do you also need to renew your county MMIC?
Only if you have one. The state Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) is issued by your county public health department and is renewed with them, separately from your doctor’s recommendation. You need a current recommendation to renew the MMIC. Find your county office on the California Department of Public Health county list.
Renewal questions
Will my new recommendation have a new expiration date?
Yes. The new date is printed on your letter and starts from your renewal approval.