For Physicians: How to Become a Medical Marijuana Doctor in Montana
Are you a Montana-licensed physician interested in certifying patients for medical cannabis? The Cannabis and Alcohol Regulation Division (CARD) oversees the medical marijuana program.
Eligibility Requirements
Licensure Requirements:
- Hold an active, unrestricted license to practice medicine in Montana
- Be licensed as an MD or DO by the Montana Board of Medical Examiners
- Be in good standing with no relevant disciplinary actions
Eligible Provider Types:
- Medical Doctors (MD)
- Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Note: Naturopathic doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are NOT eligible to certify patients in Montana.
Certification Process
Certification Requirements:
- Conduct an Examination: Complete a full medical evaluation (in-person or via video telehealth)
- Confirm Qualifying Condition: Diagnose or confirm one of the 13 statutory debilitating conditions
- Complete Physician Statement: Sign the official CARD form including:
- Physician name, license number, and signature
- Patient name and qualifying condition
- Date of examination
- Statement that benefits outweigh risks
- Bona Fide Relationship: Must establish a genuine physician-patient relationship
Montana-Specific Rules:
- Telehealth Permitted: Video evaluations allowed (MCA 16-12-502, 16-12-509)
- 1-Year Certifications: Annual renewals required
- 60-Day Window: Patient must submit application within 60 days of physician statement date
- No Condition Addition: Physicians can only certify for the 13 statutory conditions
Resources for Montana Physicians
- CARD Main Page: revenue.mt.gov/card/cannabis
- Physician Statement Form (PDF): CARD Physician Statement
- Montana Board of Medical Examiners: boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/medical-examiners
- Montana Medical Association: mmaoffice.org
Provider FAQ
Can any Montana doctor certify patients?
Only MDs and DOs licensed in Montana can certify patients. Nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and naturopathic doctors are not eligible.