Looking to buy cannabis legally in Washington, D.C.? Whether you live here or you’re visiting, you no longer need a traditional medical marijuana card or a doctor’s recommendation to shop at licensed dispensaries.
Instead, you can get a temporary self-certified medical cannabis card. Here’s how to get a medical marijuana card in DC, and Pot & Goods covers the cost when you place an order with us.
Self-Certify, No Doctor Needed
In 2025, D.C. law allows any adult 21+ to self-certify their use of cannabis for medical purposes. No physician recommendation is required.
This card:
- Is quick and easy to get
- Is not reported to federal firearm systems
- Does not affect your gun rights
- Does not go on your permanent record
DC Residents: FREE 2-Year Medical Card
If you’re a D.C. resident, you can get a full 2-year medical cannabis card for free.
- No doctor needed
- No fees required
- Valid for 2 years
- 100% covered when you register through ABCA
Non-Residents & International Visitors: $10 Temporary Card
If you’re visiting D.C. from another state or country, you can still shop legally.
D.C. offers non-residents and international visitors a:
- 3-day temporary medical cannabis card
- Cost: $10
- Pot & Goods covers that fee when you order with us
Want longer access? Extended-use cards are available through the same system for an additional fee.
How to Register for Your Temporary Card
- Visit https://abca.dc.gov
- Choose either “D.C. Resident Registration” or “Non-Resident 3-Day Temporary Card.”
- Upload your ID and a photo
- Pay the applicable fee ($0–$10, depending on your status)
- Pot & Goods will reimburse or cover the fee when you order from us!
Most cards are emailed within hours, and you can shop the same day.
Doctor’s Recommendation Required
- If you are between 18 and 20, self‑certification is not allowed.
- You must include a healthcare provider recommendation number in your application to be eligible. You cannot apply on your own under penalty of perjury like those 21+.
Under 18: Parental Permission + Recommendation
Applicants under 18 require a signed recommendation from a physician, plus parent or guardian consent. They must designate a registered caregiver who applies on their behalf (usually via email, mail, or in person).
| Age Group | Self-Certify Allowed? | Requirement |
| 21 or older | Yes | Just self-certify in application |
| 18 to 20 | No | Must include provider recommendation number |
| Under 18 | No | Doctor + guardian consent + caregiver |
| Group | Type of Card | Cost | Covered by Pot & Goods? |
| D.C. Residents | 2-Year Self-Certified Card | Free | Yes |
| U.S. Non-Residents & International Visitors | 3-Day Temporary Card | $10 | Yes |
| All Visitors | Longer-Term Temporary Card (Optional) | Varies | Ask us for help |
Why Choose Pot & Goods?
- We pay for your card (non-residents & international visitors)
- Licensed, legal products
- Fast, discreet delivery in D.C.
- Premium flower, edibles, carts, and more
Important to Know
- “Gifting” cannabis is no longer legal in D.C.
- Only registered patients can purchase from licensed dispensaries
- Out-of-state cards are accepted
- Getting a temporary card does NOT affect your gun rights or legal record
Final Word
Whether you live in D.C. or you’re just visiting, it’s never been easier or more legal to access medical cannabis. No doctor. No permanent record. No risk.
And at Pot & Goods, we make it even simpler by covering the cost of your card when you place an order.
