How Does Virginia's Medical Cannabis System Work?
Virginia uses a digital certification system rather than physical cards. Your written certification from a healthcare practitioner is your proof of patient status. This means:
- No physical card to lose
- FREE to download new copies
- Instant access from your account
- Print as many copies as needed
How Do I Get a New Copy of My Virginia Medical Cannabis Certification?
Steps to download your certification:
- Log into your MMJ account or the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority portal
- Navigate to your patient profile
- Download your "Validation of Written Certification"
- Print or save to your phone
- Use at any Virginia dispensary with your government-issued ID
What Does a Replacement Cost?
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Digital certification download | FREE |
| Additional copies | FREE |
Virginia does not charge fees for downloading or printing your certification.
What Do I Need to Purchase at Dispensaries?
To purchase medical cannabis in Virginia, present:
- Your Validation of Written Certification (digital or printed)
- A valid government-issued photo ID
Do I Need to Report a Lost Certification?
Since Virginia uses digital certifications, there's typically nothing to "lose." However, if you believe your information has been compromised:
- Contact the Virginia Board of Pharmacy at (804) 367-4456
- Email pharmbd@dhp.virginia.gov
- Update your account security settings
How Long Is My Certification Valid?
Written certifications are valid for one year unless your practitioner sets an earlier expiration date. Set a reminder to renew before your certification expires.
Need Help?
- Virginia Board of Pharmacy: (804) 367-4456
- Email: pharmbd@dhp.virginia.gov
- Cannabis Control Authority: cca.virginia.gov
- FAQ: cca.virginia.gov/faqs
Information current as of December 2025. Verify with the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority for the most up-to-date requirements.