Illinois became a recreational cannabis state in 2020, but there are still many benefits to being a part of the Illinois Medical Cannabis Patient Program (MCPP). Dr.Consalter has been certifying patients in the state of Illinois since 2015 when the program began! If you’re interested in applying for your medical cannabis card, Dr.Consalter is here to guide you through the process. Each state has its own program and rules, so make sure to follow your states guide, this is the process for Illinois.

Before beginning the process, you will want to make sure you meet the state of Illinois following requirements:

• At least 18 years old OR a minor with an adult caregiver
• A legal resident of Illinois
• A certified diagnosis from Illinois Department of Public Health’s list of debilitating conditions by a healthcare professional, you can browse them here.

Step One: Get Your Patient Certificate

In order to be considered for the Medical Cannabis Patient Program (MCPP), you must receive a certification from a medical practitioner that states you suffer from a qualifying condition for a medical cannabis card. Dr.Consalter specializes in cannabis certifications, you can schedule yours here.

Step Two: Complete your Medical Cannabis Application through Illinois

Once you have been certified by Dr.Consalter, you will need to complete the patient portion of the application and pay the appropriate fees through the Illinois Cannabis Tracking System. If you get certified through Dr.Consalter, our team sends you a thorough guide on how to easily complete the steps and our teams available to contact if you have any issues. Make sure to have the following items available:

• Completed healthcare professional certification

• A passport-style photo taken within the last 30 days by a smartphone or a professional photographer

• A color copy of a current driver’s license, state ID, or photo page of a US passport*

• Credit card to pay the online application fee

• *If your current address does not match the address on your identity document, you will need to provide proof of residency. This can be a utility bill, a bank statement, or a voter ID card. Click here for a list of acceptable documents.

• Registration fees range from $25 – $300, depending on the length of the term and the number of designated caregivers assigned to a patient.

Step 3: Print Your Provisional Letter

Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a provisional registration letter to print and use to purchase medical cannabis at a state-licensed dispensary. This letter is valid for up to 90 days or until your application is either approved or denied.

Step Four: Print Your Card

Once your application has been approved, you’ll receive a digital copy of your card to print. Please note, Illinois no longer issues physical medical cannabis cards.

Step Five: You’re Ready to Visit the Dispensary!

You are eligible to visit a state-licensed dispensary in Illinois as soon as you have your provisional letter!