Can You Get a Florida Medical Marijuana Card Online?

Short Answer

Not usually for a first-time Florida medical marijuana certification. Florida law requires a qualified physician to conduct an in-person physical examination before issuing an initial physician certification.

Telehealth may be available for later renewal or subsequent certification evaluations after the qualified physician has already conducted the required in-person physical examination with that patient.

What "Online Card" Ads Usually Mean

Some clinics advertise online scheduling, online intake forms, or telehealth renewal appointments. Those services can be helpful, but they are not the same thing as getting a first-time certification completely online.

Before you book, ask the clinic whether your appointment is for:

• A first-time certification.
• A renewal or recertification.
• A state card application.
• A consultation that does not include certification.

First-Time Patients Need an In-Person Exam

For an initial certification, the physician must be physically present in the same room as the patient for the physical examination. The physician also has to review the patient's medical history, diagnose or confirm a qualifying condition, and determine whether medical marijuana is appropriate.

After certification, patients still need to complete the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry application and receive approval before purchasing from a licensed dispensary.

When Telehealth May Be Allowed

Telehealth may be allowed for certification renewals or later evaluations if the qualified physician has already issued a certification after conducting the required in-person physical exam.

Patients should confirm this directly with the clinic because renewal eligibility can depend on the physician-patient relationship, clinic policy, records, timing, and registry status.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

• Is this appointment for a first-time certification or a renewal?
• Will the physician be a Florida qualified physician?
• Is an in-person physical exam required for my visit?
• What is included in the appointment price?
• Are state application fees separate?
• What medical records should I bring?
• If telehealth is offered, why is my visit eligible?

Source Note

This guide is based on Florida Statutes section 381.986, including the physician certification requirements for initial in-person physical examinations and subsequent telehealth evaluations: https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2025/381.986