Vermont Medical Marijuana Caregiver Requirements 2026
Vermont's medical marijuana program, overseen by the Cannabis Control Board (CCB), allows caregivers to cultivate cannabis for patients and provides significant tax advantages over recreational purchases. Even with recreational legalization, the medical program offers important benefits.
Quick Facts: Vermont Caregiver Program
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | $50 |
| Card Validity | 1 year |
| Max Patients | 2 |
| Processing Time | Up to 30 days |
| Home Cultivation | YES - 2 mature + 7 immature plants per patient |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old |
| Residency | Vermont resident required |
Why Choose Medical Over Recreational in Vermont?
- Tax Savings: Medical patients save approximately 14% compared to recreational taxes
- Cultivation Rights: Medical caregivers can grow cannabis for patients
- Lower Limits Lookback: Only 3 years for disqualifying offenses
- Dual Status: Caregivers can also be registered patients
Who Can Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in Vermont?
Age & Residency:
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Must be a Vermont resident
- Must possess valid Vermont identification
Background Check Requirements:
- State criminal background check required
- Disqualifying offenses include:
- Drug-related felony within 3 years (shortest lookback)
- Only 3-year lookback period
- No fingerprinting required
Additional Requirements:
- Can also be a registered patient (dual status allowed)
- Must be designated by qualifying patients
How to Register as a Vermont Caregiver: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Patient Designation Up to 2 qualifying patients can designate you as their caregiver.
Step 2: Create CCB Account Visit the Vermont Cannabis Control Board portal.
Step 3: Complete Application Submit your caregiver registration with:
- Personal identification
- Proof of Vermont residency
- Patient designation(s)
Step 4: Pay Registration Fee Submit the $50 registration fee.
Step 5: Receive Your Card Once approved (up to 30 days), your caregiver ID card will be issued.
Required Documents for Vermont Caregiver Registration
- Valid Vermont driver's license or state-issued ID
- Proof of Vermont residency
- Caregiver registration application
- $50 registration fee
Vermont Caregiver Cultivation Rights
Vermont allows caregivers to grow cannabis for their patients:
Plants Allowed Per Patient:
- 2 mature (flowering) plants
- 7 immature (vegetative) plants
Maximum Plants (2 patients):
- 4 mature + 14 immature = 18 plants total
Cultivation Requirements:
- Must be grown in an enclosed, secure area
- Not visible from public areas
- Only accessible to cardholders
Vermont Caregiver Rights and Responsibilities
What Caregivers CAN Do:
- Cultivate 2 mature + 7 immature plants per patient
- Possess up to 2 ounces of cannabis
- Purchase from licensed Vermont dispensaries
- Transport cannabis for patients
- Be a registered patient yourself (dual status)
What Caregivers CANNOT Do:
- Sell cannabis to non-cardholders
- Exceed plant or possession limits
- Grow in unsecured locations
- Serve more than 2 patients
Possession Limits for Vermont Caregivers
- Usable Cannabis: Up to 2 ounces
- Plants: 2 mature + 7 immature per patient
- Maximum Patients: 2
- Product Types: All approved forms from dispensaries
Costs and Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Caregiver Registration | $50 |
| Annual Renewal | $50 |
| Replacement Card | $25 |
Medical vs. Recreational in Vermont
Vermont legalized recreational cannabis, but medical cardholders benefit:
- 14% Tax Savings: Medical purchases avoid the recreational excise tax
- Cultivation Rights: Medical caregivers can grow for patients
- Shorter Lookback: Only 3 years vs. longer for recreational employment
- Program Benefits: Access to medical-specific products and services
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Vermont caregivers grow cannabis? Yes! Vermont allows caregivers to cultivate up to 2 mature and 7 immature plants per patient they serve.
Why get a Vermont medical card when recreational is legal? Medical patients save approximately 14% in excise taxes on every purchase compared to recreational.
Can I be both a patient and caregiver in Vermont? Yes. Vermont allows individuals to hold both patient and caregiver registrations.
How many patients can a Vermont caregiver serve? Vermont allows caregivers to assist up to 2 patients simultaneously.
What is Vermont's background check lookback period? Only 3 years—the shortest of any state. Drug-related felonies older than 3 years won't disqualify you.
How much does a Vermont caregiver card cost? The registration fee is $50 per year.
Official Resources
- Vermont Cannabis Control Board
- Medical Cannabis Program
- Patient & Caregiver Registration
- Find Vermont Dispensaries
Get Your Vermont Medical Marijuana Card
Save 14% on taxes and gain cultivation rights. MMJ.com connects Vermont patients with certified physicians for convenient evaluations.