How to Obtain a Medical Marijuana Card in Texas: The Complete 2025 Guide
Short Summary
Texas allows eligible patients to access low-THC medical cannabis (maximum of 10 milligrams of THC per dose) through the state’s Compassionate Use Program (CUP), managed by the Department of Public Safety. Instead of issuing physical cards, physicians enter approved patients into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), which dispensaries use to verify eligibility. To qualify, patients must be Texas residents diagnosed with a qualifying condition like chronic pain, neuropathy, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), PTSD, epilepsy, cancer, and others. The process involves registering online with a licensed provider such as CannabisMD Telemed, completing a short telehealth consultation, and having a doctor enter the prescription in CURT. Once registered, you can legally purchase low-THC oils, gummies, tinctures, and capsules from licensed dispensaries across Texas. Cannabis prescriptions are valid for one year and can be renewed online.
Introduction
Medical marijuana is now a life-changing option for many Texans struggling with chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, and other qualifying health conditions. Thanks to the Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP), first established in 2015 and expanded in subsequent years, patients across the state can legally access low-THC cannabis products prescribed by licensed physicians.
However, unlike most states, Texas does not issue physical “medical marijuana cards.” Instead, all patient certifications are managed electronically through the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). This online database, run by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), connects qualified doctors, patients, and dispensaries, ensuring legal access to low-THC cannabis.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a medical marijuana prescription in Texas—from checking your eligibility to visiting your local dispensary.
Understanding the Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP)
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) administers the Compassionate Use Program, which oversees:
Licensing of dispensaries that can legally produce and sell medical cannabis.
Registration of qualified physicians authorized to prescribe low-THC products.
Oversight of the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), the digital system where all prescriptions are stored and verified.
The CUP’s main goal is to provide Texans with safe, legal access to cannabis-based treatments under medical supervision. It’s designed to help patients manage severe or chronic symptoms when conventional treatments fail or cause intolerable side effects.
As of September 2025, more than 123,000 Texans have been registered in CURT, with thousands of licensed clinicians participating in the program.
What Is the CURT System?
The Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) is a secure, state-run online database that tracks physician prescriptions for medical marijuana. Unlike other states where patients carry ID cards, CURT replaces the need for a physical card; dispensaries can verify your eligibility directly using your ID and Social Security details.
CURT ensures that:
Only approved patients receive cannabis prescriptions.
Dispensaries can confirm prescriptions instantly.
Physicians comply with state regulations for dosage and renewal.
Because of this system, the process is streamlined and paperless. Once your physician adds your name and prescription to CURT, you can purchase low-THC products immediately from a state-licensed dispensary.
Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Texas?
To qualify for medical marijuana in Texas, you must meet three main criteria under the CUP:
Residency: You must be a permanent resident of Texas.
Medical Eligibility: You must be diagnosed with at least one qualifying medical condition.
Clinical Evaluation: A CUP-registered physician must determine that the benefits of cannabis treatment outweigh potential risks.
Qualifying Conditions (As of 2025)
The list of eligible conditions has grown considerably since the CUP’s inception. Texans may now qualify if they suffer from:
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Dementia
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)
Peripheral neuropathy
Parkinson’s disease
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Incurable neurodegenerative diseases
Patients receiving palliative or hospice care
Minor Patients
Texas imposes no age restriction on medical cannabis. However, minors must have a parent or legal guardian manage their treatment. The guardian’s full name and the last five digits of their Social Security number are required for CURT registration.
How to Apply for a Texas Medical Marijuana Prescription
Although Texas doesn’t issue a traditional “medical marijuana card,” the application process for obtaining a cannabis prescription is simple and fully online.
Below is a step-by-step breakdown that combines the official CURT guidelines and procedures from a trusted telemedicine platform such as CannabisMD Telemed.
Step 1: Schedule a Consultation with a Licensed Physician
Start by scheduling a virtual consultation with a Texas-licensed physician at CannabisMD Telemed. You can apply and see the doctor online using any device.
You’ll fill out a brief form that asks for:
Your full name, address, and date of birth
Proof of Texas residency (such as a driver’s license or state ID)
The last five digits of your Social Security number
Which qualifying condition you are applying for
Step 2: See the Doctor Through Telemedicine
The next step is a virtual consultation with a Texas-licensed physician registered under the Cannabis Use Program (CUP).
During your telehealth visit, the doctor will:
Review your medical history and current symptoms
Evaluate whether low-THC cannabis is appropriate
Discuss product options and dosages
Answer any questions about legality, safety, and potential side effects
Consultations typically last 10–15 minutes, and we operate 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Once you are approved, the doctor enters your information and cannabis prescription into the CURT system. Over 99% of patients with a qualifying condition are approved. At CannabisMD Telemed, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you are not approved for any reason.
Step 3: Physician Enters Cannabis Prescription into CURT
Once your doctor approves you for cannabis treatment, they will immediately enter your prescription into the CURT system.
Here are the steps:
The physician submits your prescription electronically to CURT.
Your CURT record becomes instantly accessible to licensed dispensaries.
Your prescription is valid for one year.
You or your caregiver can visit any dispensary to fill the prescription.
You’ll need to bring identification and provide:
Your last name
Date of birth
Last five digits of your Social Security number
Dispensary staff will cross-check this information in the CURT database before fulfilling your order.
Step 4: Purchase Low-THC Cannabis Products
After your CURT record is active, you can legally buy cannabis products at any state-licensed Texas dispensary.
Below are some state-licensed dispensaries in Texas
Dispensaries offer a range of options to pick up your medical cannabis prescription, You can choose:
Home delivery via courier,
Pickup at a dispensary, or
Drop-off at designated locations.
What You Can Buy
Texas law allows low-THC products—defined as cannabis with no more than 1% THC by weight and a 10 mg THC limit per dose. Approved products include:
Smoking cannabis remains illegal, but vaping low-THC oils or consuming edibles is permitted.
Step 5: Renew Every Year
Texas medical marijuana prescriptions remain valid for one year. To continue your treatment, you’ll need a follow-up consultation with your cannabis physician once per year.
Renewal steps:
Log into your provider’s patient portal (e.g., CannabisMD Telemed).
Book a renewal appointment online.
Your physician re-enters your updated prescription into CURT.
If you switch to a new doctor at any time. No need to renew with the same provider.
Follow-ups not only keep your prescription active but also allow dose adjustments to ensure the treatment remains effective.
Costs of Obtaining a Texas Medical Marijuana Prescription
Getting a medical marijuana prescription in Texas is surprisingly affordable compared to other states, and the process is streamlined thanks to the state’s digital Compassionate Use Registry (CURT). One of the biggest advantages for Texans is that there are no state application or registration fees, you only pay for your consultation with a licensed medical marijuana doctor. Through CannabisMD TeleMed, the cost of a new patient consultation is $99, which includes a full evaluation, certification letter once approved, and immediate entry into the CURT system. Renewal patients receive a discount which brings the cost down to $89 which is required once a year, ensuring continued access to your prescription without hidden costs or additional state charges.
Patients appreciate that CannabisMD TeleMed’s process is risk-free and transparent, you only pay if you’re approved. There are no extra fees for documentation or system registration, and the telemedicine consultation can be completed entirely online in just minutes. For ongoing care, CannabisMD TeleMed also offers affordable follow-up visits if you need to adjust your dosage or discuss treatment progress with your physician. Overall, obtaining and maintaining a medical marijuana prescription in Texas is both cost-effective and hassle-free, with CannabisMD TeleMed providing exceptional value and patient support at every step.
Key Benefits of a Texas Medical Marijuana Prescription
Having a medical marijuana prescription in Texas provides patients with clear legal protections and access to effective, state-approved cannabis treatments that aren’t available to the general public. Under the Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP), only individuals who have been evaluated and approved by a licensed physician can legally purchase, possess, and use low-THC cannabis products. This means that holding a valid prescription through the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) ensures you are protected under state law when obtaining or using medical cannabis. Without a prescription, possessing or consuming marijuana remains illegal in Texas and can result in criminal penalties.
Beyond legal protection, patients with an approved prescription gain access to a wide range of medical-grade cannabis products that are tested, safe, and regulated. These include tinctures, gummies, capsules, and oils designed to manage symptoms such as chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, muscle spasticity, and seizure disorders. Because products are dispensed only through licensed Texas dispensaries, patients can trust that their medicine meets strict quality and safety standards.
Another major benefit is the personalized care that comes with being under the supervision of a medical cannabis physician. At CannabisMD TeleMed, every patient receives individualized guidance on dosing, product selection, and treatment monitoring to ensure the best therapeutic outcome. The process is also quick and convenient, patients can consult with a doctor, receive approval, and be registered in CURT in just minutes, all from the comfort of home.
In short, having a Texas medical marijuana prescription offers legal peace of mind, access to safe products, and expert medical oversight. It empowers patients to manage their conditions naturally and confidently, knowing they are fully protected and supported under Texas law.
Legal Restrictions and Important Rules
Even with a valid CURT prescription, patients must follow specific state laws to remain compliant:
Recreational Cannabis Remains Illegal: Possession of up to two ounces of unapproved cannabis can result in up to 180 days in jail, a $2,000 fine, and driver’s license suspension.
No Home Cultivation: Growing cannabis, even for medical purposes, is illegal in Texas.
No Actual Cards: Dispensaries verify eligibility through CURT, so there’s no need for an ID card.
No Smoking: Smoking cannabis flower is prohibited; however, vaporizing oils and using tinctures or edibles is allowed.
Delta-8 and CBD Laws: CBD products with less than 10% THC are legal statewide. Delta-8 THC products exist in a legal gray area and may be banned in the future.
Caregiver Information
If the patient is a minor or unable to travel, a caregiver or legal guardian may collect their medical cannabis on their behalf.
Requirements for Caregivers
Must be at least 18 years old
Must provide proof of identity
Must provide the patient’s last name, date of birth, and last five digits of their SSN when purchasing
Must be listed by name in the patient’s CURT record
The physician registers the caregiver in CURT at the same time as the patient.
Out-of-State Patients and Reciprocity
Texas does not recognize medical marijuana cards from other states. Likewise, Texas prescriptions are not valid outside the state.
However, Texas cardholders visiting states such as Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arizona, Utah, and Washington, D.C. may be eligible for temporary access through local “visiting patient” programs. Always check the local laws before traveling.
Importantly, transporting cannabis across state lines remains illegal under federal law.
The History and Evolution of Medical Marijuana in Texas
2015: Texas House Bill 339 (Texas Compassionate Use Act) established the CUP for epilepsy patients.
2019: The program expanded to include terminal cancer, MS, ALS, seizure disorders, and incurable neurological conditions.
2021: PTSD was added as a qualifying condition.
2025: House Bill 46 expanded eligibility to include chronic pain, IBD, TBI, and palliative care, and raised the THC cap to 1%.
Over the years, the CUP has evolved from a limited pilot to a robust statewide program with digital oversight, making Texas one of the fastest-growing medical cannabis markets in the U.S.
What to Expect After Approval?
Once your physician approves you and enters your information into CURT:
Your prescription becomes active immediately.
You can visit any licensed dispensary in Texas to purchase your medication.
You’ll need to show a valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) and confirm your date of birth and Social Security number for verification.
You can choose delivery or pickup options.
Locations of Dispensaries in Texas
Licensed dispensaries have expanded across major Texas cities for easy patient access:
Houston: 1000 Bay Area Blvd B, Houston, TX 77058
Dallas: 5521 Greenville Ave, Ste. 106, Dallas, TX 75206
Fort Worth: 4560 Heritage Trace Pkwy, Ste. 400, Ft. Worth, TX 76244
San Antonio: 300 W. Bitters Rd., #170, San Antonio, TX 78216
Leander: 15609 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Suite B-200, Leander, TX 78641
All licensed dispensaries can confirm your eligibility directly through CURT once you provide ID.
Why Choose a Reputable Provider?
Choosing the right medical marijuana provider is the most important step in ensuring your experience is safe, legal, and stress-free. While several telemedicine services operate in Texas, CannabisMD TeleMed stands out as the trusted leader for compassionate, expert-driven cannabis care.
CannabisMD TeleMed has earned a reputation for clinical excellence and personalized patient support. The platform was built on the belief that every patient deserves access to high-quality, evidence-based cannabis medicine delivered with professionalism and empathy.
Here’s why CannabisMD TeleMed is the preferred choice for Texans seeking a medical marijuana prescription:
1. Expert Physicians You Can Trust
At CannabisMD TeleMed, you’ll meet directly with licensed, Texas-approved medical marijuana doctors who understand both the science and legal framework of cannabis care. Every consultation is handled by a compassionate clinician with extensive experience helping patients manage conditions such as chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory disorders, and more.
2. Fast, Convenient, and Fully Online
Getting approved through CannabisMD TeleMed takes just minutes from the comfort of your home. The telemedicine process is simple: book an appointment, consult with a certified provider via secure video, and, once approved, get added to the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) the same day. No waiting rooms. No paperwork. No hassle.
3. Patient-Centered Care and Ongoing Support
Unlike many platforms that stop after approval, CannabisMD TeleMed provides continued guidance throughout your treatment journey. The team follows up with patients, monitors progress, and helps adjust treatment plans as needed to ensure optimal results. This dedication to patient success has earned the clinic over 12,000 five-star reviews from satisfied patients across the state.
4. Affordable and Transparent Pricing
CannabisMD TeleMed offers the most competitive rates in Texas, with risk-free consultations, you only pay if you’re approved. There are no hidden fees or state charges, and renewals are equally straightforward and affordable.
5. Local Expertise with a Statewide Reach
We serve the entire state including Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and beyond, CannabisMD TeleMed makes it easy for every Texan to connect with a licensed provider. Whether you live in a major city or a rural county, you’ll receive the same level of professional care and fast approval.
6. The Gold Standard in Compassionate Cannabis Care
From start to finish, CannabisMD TeleMed combines medical expertise, legal compliance, and genuine compassion to help Texans find natural relief through cannabis therapy. Our commitment to patient education, ethical practice, and ongoing support sets us apart as the gold standard in Texas medical marijuana certification.
If you’re ready to experience safe, legal, and professional cannabis care, look no further than CannabisMD TeleMed. Schedule your online consultation today and discover why thousands of Texans trust CannabisMD TeleMed to help them access the relief they deserve.
Key Takeaways
The Texas Compassionate Use Program is managed by the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
There are no physical medical marijuana cards; instead, prescriptions are entered in the CURT system by the physician.
To qualify, you must be a Texas resident diagnosed with a state-approved qualifying medical condition.
Application and renewals are conducted online through licensed telemedicine providers.
Products are low-THC (1% limit) and available in non-smokable forms.
Prescriptions are valid for up to one year and require renewal.
No state fees are charged for participation.
Conclusion
Obtaining a medical marijuana prescription in Texas has never been easier, or more important for patients seeking natural relief. With the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) simplifying verification, and a trusted provider like CannabisMD Telemed guiding patients through every step, Texans now enjoy safe, legal, and convenient access to low-THC cannabis therapies.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain, PTSD, or another qualifying condition, the process is fast, affordable, and entirely digital. In less than 15 minutes, you can speak to a certified physician, get approved, and be ready to visit a dispensary.
The future of medical cannabis in Texas continues to expand, with more conditions, improved product options, and increasing awareness that compassionate care is both effective and essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Texas does not issue physical medical marijuana cards. Instead, all approved patients are registered in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). Dispensaries can verify your eligibility directly using your ID, date of birth, and the last five digits of your Social Security number.
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Through CannabisMD TeleMed, the total cost is just $99 for new consultations. Renewing patients only pay $89. There are no state application or registration fees, and the process is risk-free, patients only pay if approved by a licensed physician.
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Approved patients can purchase low-THC cannabis products such as oils, tinctures, capsules, lozenges, gummies, and topical creams. Smoking cannabis flower is still prohibited in Texas, but vaporizing oils or consuming edibles is allowed.
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The process is fast and entirely online. With CannabisMD TeleMed, most patients can book an appointment, consult with a physician, and get registered in the CURT system within minutes. Once approved, you can immediately purchase products from any licensed Texas dispensary.
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In Texas, medical marijuana prescriptions are valid for up to one year. After that, you’ll need to schedule a renewal consultation with your doctor to maintain access to your medicine. CannabisMD TeleMed makes renewals quick, convenient, and affordable—all done online from the comfort of your home.
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Yes, Texas allows telemedicine for medical cannabis and CannabisMD TeleMed offers online consultations with licensed doctors.
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Patients with a medical marijuana card in Texas can purchase cannabis products containing up to 1 gram of THC, with a maximum of 10 milligrams of THC per dose.
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All marijuana prescriptions are entered into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas but this database is not public.
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No, the cultivation of both medical and recreational marijuana is illegal in Texas even if you have a medical card.
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Any Texas resident that has been approved for medical cannabis can purchase products at cannabis dispensaries and even have the dispensary deliver products to their home.
