A Missouri-licensed physician or nurse practitioner evaluates your health needs. If you qualify, you apply for a state patient card that lasts three years — with lower tax and higher limits than adult-use.
Everything after the evaluation happens online through the Department of Health and Senior Services.
A Missouri-licensed MD, DO, or nurse practitioner registered with the state reviews your history. If you have a qualifying condition, they complete an electronic certification form.
Create an account in the state's online registry and submit your application within 30 days of the provider's signature date. You'll upload a copy of your photo ID and a current color photo of your face.
The Division of Cannabis Regulation has up to 30 days to process an application and emails you when it's done.
Approved cards are downloaded from the registry and printed at home. They're valid for three years.
Certifications can be done by telemedicine when the standard of care allows it. If your provider decides an in-person exam is needed, they'll tell you before moving forward.
Anyone 21+ can shop adult-use in Missouri. Here's what a patient card adds.
Medical purchases carry a 4% state tax. Adult-use carries 6%, and local governments can add up to 3% more.
Patients can buy up to 6 ounces in 30 days, compared with 3 ounces per adult-use transaction.
Adults under 21 can only purchase legally through the medical program.
Patients can designate caregivers to purchase on their behalf — helpful for anyone with limited mobility.
Summarized from Article XIV of the Missouri Constitution and DHSS guidance. Standard sales tax applies to all purchases.
“I've got nerve pain from a back injury at work. The provider took real time going over my records, and three weeks later I had my card printed out on the kitchen counter.”— Travis R., Joplin
Missouri names conditions like cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, PTSD, intractable migraines, and chronic pain or muscle spasms, and allows providers to certify other chronic or debilitating conditions in their professional judgment.
Missouri's patient card is issued by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services under its own eligibility rules. Ask your provider about your situation before booking; adults 21+ can shop adult-use in Missouri with a photo ID.
A physician (MD or DO) or nurse practitioner licensed in Missouri, in good standing, and registered with the state.
No. Approved cards are downloaded from the online registry and printed at home.
Your provider charges for the evaluation, and the state charges an application fee that's adjusted yearly — see the DHSS fee schedule.
You'll need a new certification. The renewal window opens 60 days before your card expires, and the state recommends applying at least 30 days ahead.
The first dispensary to open to the public in Joplin, on Rangeline Road, with online ordering for pickup. Several other licensed dispensaries now operate around town — check hours before you go.
Missouri's largest continuously flowing natural waterfall, on Shoal Creek just south of the city — a peaceful spot to sit by the water.
Joplin grew up during the lead and zinc mining boom of the Tri-State District, and historic Route 66 runs right through town. Home to Missouri Southern State University and a regional hub for the Four-State Area where Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas meet, the city's recovery after the 2011 tornado became a national story of resilience. Joplin residents follow the same statewide medical marijuana process as all Missourians.
Article XIV of the Missouri Constitution authorizes both medical and adult-use marijuana. The Department of Health and Senior Services, through its Division of Cannabis Regulation, licenses patients and caregivers and issues their cards through an online registry.
The medical program remains the only legal route for 18- to 20-year-olds and offers lower tax and higher limits than adult-use. Current rules are posted by DHSS Cannabis Patient Services.
Appointments with Missouri-licensed physicians and nurse practitioners.
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