What conditions qualify for medical marijuana in Illinois?
Illinois' Medical Marijuana Program, regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), recognizes over 50 qualifying conditions. To qualify, you need certification from an Illinois-licensed healthcare provider. MMJ.com offers telehealth evaluations for $149.99 with same-day certification and a 100% money-back guarantee if not approved.
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What is the complete list of Illinois qualifying conditions?
Chronic Pain and Related Conditions
- Chronic Pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Interstitial Cystitis
- Neuropathy
- Osteoarthritis
Neurological Conditions
- Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson's Disease
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Tourette's Syndrome
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Myoclonus
- Neurofibromatosis
- Spinocerebellar Ataxia
- Spinal Cord Injury or Disease
- Tarlov Cysts
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Hydrocephalus
Mental Health Conditions
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Alzheimer's Disease (with agitation)
- Anorexia Nervosa
Cancer and Terminal Illness
- Cancer
- Terminal Illness (prognosis ≤6 months)
- Cachexia/Wasting Syndrome
Gastrointestinal Conditions
- Crohn's Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Severe Nausea
Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- Lupus
- Sjogren's Syndrome
- Arnold-Chiari Malformation
Women's Health Conditions
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian Cysts
- Uterine Fibroids
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Other Qualifying Conditions
- Glaucoma
- Migraines
- Causalgia
- Dystonia
- Nail-Patella Syndrome
- Post-Concussion Syndrome
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
- Residual Limb Pain
- Sickle Cell Disease
- Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome
How do I qualify for an Illinois medical marijuana card?
To qualify for medical marijuana in Illinois, you must:
- Be an Illinois resident with valid state ID
- Have a qualifying condition diagnosed by a licensed healthcare provider
- Complete a physician evaluation (telehealth evaluations are legal in Illinois)
- Register with the IDPH to receive your medical cannabis card
MMJ.com connects you with Illinois-licensed physicians for a 10-15 minute telehealth evaluation. Most patients receive same-day certification.
How much does an Illinois medical marijuana card cost?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Physician Evaluation (MMJ.com) | $149.99 |
| State Registration Fee (1 year) | $50 |
| State Registration Fee (3 years) | $125 |
| Veterans/Disabled | $25/$62.50 |
MMJ.com provides a 100% money-back guarantee if you're not approved by our physician.
Can I grow marijuana at home with an Illinois medical card?
Yes! Illinois is one of the few states that allows home cultivation for medical marijuana patients. Registered patients may legally cultivate up to 5 mature cannabis plants at their residence. Plants must be grown in an enclosed, locked space not visible to the public.
About the Qualifying Medical Conditions
Below is information about condition categories and the research that informed Illinois's decision to include them in the state program.
Cancer, Cachexia/Wasting Syndrome, and Severe Nausea
These are approved qualifying conditions under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on research examining cannabinoid use among cancer patients experiencing treatment-related symptoms. (Whiting et al., JAMA 2015) (Beal et al., J Pain Symptom Manage 1995)
Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia, and Arthritis
These pain conditions are approved under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on systematic reviews examining cannabinoid use among patients with chronic pain conditions. (Whiting et al., JAMA 2015) (Fiz et al., PLoS One 2011)
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
Seizure disorders are approved qualifying conditions under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on clinical trial research examining CBD in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. (Devinsky et al., NEJM 2017)
PTSD
PTSD is an approved qualifying condition under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included this condition based on research examining cannabinoid use among patients with PTSD. (Roitman et al., J Clin Psychopharmacol 2014)
Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, and ALS
These neurological conditions are approved under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on clinical research examining cannabinoid use in patients with spasticity and motor symptoms. (Zajicek et al., J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2012) (Lotan et al., Clin Neuropharmacol 2014)
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder is an approved qualifying condition under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included this condition based on emerging research examining cannabinoid use among autism patients. (Aran et al., Neurology 2019)
Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and IBS
These gastrointestinal conditions are approved under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on clinical research examining cannabis use in patients with inflammatory bowel conditions. (Naftali et al., Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013) (Irving et al., Inflamm Bowel Dis 2018)
HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C
HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C are approved qualifying conditions under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included these conditions based on research examining cannabinoid use among patients with these conditions. (Woolridge et al., J Pain Symptom Manage 2005) (Sylvestre et al., Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2006)
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an approved qualifying condition under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included this condition based on early research examining the relationship between cannabinoids and intraocular pressure. (Hepler & Frank, JAMA 1971)
Tourette's Syndrome
Tourette's Syndrome is an approved qualifying condition under Illinois's medical marijuana program. Illinois included this condition based on clinical research examining THC use in patients with Tourette's Syndrome. (Müller-Vahl et al., Pharmacopsychiatry 2003)
Other Approved Conditions
Women's health conditions (endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, PCOS), lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, muscular dystrophy, and other conditions listed above are approved as determined by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
How do caregivers and pediatric patients qualify?
Caregiver Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Complete background check
- Register separately with the state
- Can support one or more qualified patients
Pediatric Patient Requirements
- Must receive certification from two qualified healthcare providers
- Parent or legal guardian must consent and register as caregiver
- School nurses may administer medical cannabis at school with proper documentation
Can I petition for a new qualifying condition in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois residents can petition the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to add new medical conditions. Each petition requires:
- Comprehensive medical documentation
- Scientific evidence supporting the petition
- Support from healthcare professionals
- Statement of need from patients
Petitions are typically reviewed within 180 days.
Program Statistics
As of 2025, Illinois has over 137,000 active medical marijuana patients, making it one of the largest programs in the Midwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a medical marijuana card in Illinois?
The telehealth evaluation takes 10-15 minutes, with same-day certification if approved. The Illinois Department of Public Health typically processes applications within 30-45 days. You can begin shopping at dispensaries once you receive your temporary card.
Can out-of-state patients access Illinois' medical marijuana program?
No, only Illinois residents can participate in the state's medical marijuana program. However, Illinois recognizes out-of-state medical cards for purchasing at dispensaries (reciprocity).
Does anxiety qualify for medical marijuana in Illinois?
Anxiety is not explicitly listed as a standalone condition. PTSD (which includes anxiety symptoms) is a qualifying condition. Consult with an MMJ.com physician to discuss your specific situation.
Can I use telehealth for my Illinois medical marijuana evaluation?
Yes, Illinois allows telehealth evaluations for medical marijuana certifications. MMJ.com offers secure, HIPAA-compliant video consultations with Illinois-licensed physicians.
What documents do I need for my evaluation?
You'll need a valid Illinois ID and any medical records related to your qualifying condition. Medical records are helpful but not always required.
How long does an Illinois medical marijuana card last?
Illinois medical marijuana cards can be issued for 1 year ($50 fee) or 3 years ($125 fee). Veterans and those on disability receive reduced fees. Begin renewal 30 days before expiration.
How much cannabis can I possess with an Illinois medical card?
Medical cardholders can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower every 14 days. Patients may also possess what they cultivate from their 5 allowed plants at home.
What is the approval rate for Illinois medical marijuana evaluations?
MMJ.com maintains a 98% approval rate for qualified patients. If you're not approved, you receive a full refund under our 100% money-back guarantee.
Medical Disclaimer
This page provides information about Illinois's qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. The inclusion of a condition in Illinois's program does not constitute medical advice or a guarantee of therapeutic benefit. Individual results vary. Potential side effects may include dizziness, sedation, and cognitive changes. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical decisions.
Reviewed by MMJ.com Medical Advisory Team Last Updated: December 17, 2025