Virginia Medical Marijuana Caregiver (Registered Agent) Requirements 2026
Virginia's Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) oversees the medical cannabis program, which uses the term "Registered Agent" instead of caregiver. Registered agents help patients obtain and use their medical cannabis from pharmaceutical processors.
Quick Facts: Virginia Registered Agent Program
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | $50 |
| Card Validity | 1 year |
| Max Patients | 2 |
| Processing Time | Up to 30 days |
| Home Cultivation | Not permitted |
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Residency | Virginia resident required |
What is a Registered Agent in Virginia?
Virginia uses "Registered Agent" instead of "caregiver." A registered agent is an individual designated by a patient to:
- Purchase cannabis products from pharmaceutical processors
- Possess cannabis products on behalf of the patient
- Assist with administration of medical cannabis
Who Can Become a Registered Agent in Virginia?
Age Requirement:
- Must be at least 18 years old
Residency:
- Must be a Virginia resident
- Must possess valid Virginia identification
Background Check Requirements:
- State criminal background check required
- Disqualifying offenses include:
- Drug distribution felony convictions
- Violent crimes within 10 years
- 10-year lookback for most offenses
- No fingerprinting required
Additional Requirements:
- Can also be a registered patient (dual status allowed)
- Must be designated by qualifying patients
- Cannot have ownership in a pharmaceutical processor
How to Register as a Virginia Registered Agent: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Patient Certification A patient must first be certified by a registered practitioner and entered into the Board of Pharmacy's system.
Step 2: Patient Designation The patient designates you as their registered agent through the system.
Step 3: Create CCA Account Visit the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority portal.
Step 4: Complete Application Submit your registered agent application with:
- Personal identification
- Proof of Virginia residency
- Patient designation confirmation
Step 5: Pay Registration Fee Submit the $50 registration fee.
Step 6: Receive Your Card Once approved (up to 30 days), your registered agent card will be issued.
Required Documents for Virginia Registered Agent Registration
- Valid Virginia driver's license or state-issued ID
- Proof of Virginia residency
- Registered agent designation from patient
- $50 registration fee
Virginia Registered Agent Rights and Responsibilities
What Registered Agents CAN Do:
- Purchase cannabis products from pharmaceutical processors (dispensaries)
- Possess up to a 90-day supply for each patient
- Transport products between dispensary and patient
- Assist with administration of cannabis products
- Serve up to 2 patients
- Be a registered patient yourself (dual status)
What Registered Agents CANNOT Do:
- Grow cannabis plants (not permitted in Virginia for medical)
- Have ownership interest in a pharmaceutical processor
- Transfer products to non-registered individuals
- Exceed possession limits
Possession Limits for Virginia Registered Agents
- Supply Limit: Up to 90-day supply per patient
- Maximum Patients: 2
- Product Types: All approved forms from pharmaceutical processors
- Tracking: All purchases tracked through state system
Costs and Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registered Agent Registration | $50 |
| Annual Renewal | $50 |
| Replacement Card | $25 |
Virginia's Pharmaceutical Processor System
Virginia's medical cannabis is dispensed through "pharmaceutical processors" rather than traditional dispensaries. These are vertically integrated operations that:
- Cultivate cannabis
- Process into approved products
- Dispense directly to patients and registered agents
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Registered Agent in Virginia? Virginia uses "Registered Agent" instead of "caregiver." The role is similar—helping patients obtain and use their medical cannabis.
Can Virginia registered agents grow cannabis? No. Home cultivation is not permitted for medical patients or registered agents in Virginia.
Can I be both a patient and registered agent in Virginia? Yes. Virginia allows individuals to hold both patient and registered agent registrations.
How many patients can a Virginia registered agent serve? Registered agents can assist up to 2 patients simultaneously.
What is the minimum age to be a registered agent in Virginia? 18 years old, which is lower than the 21-year requirement in most states.
How long does Virginia registered agent approval take? Applications are typically processed within 30 days.
Official Resources
- Virginia Cannabis Control Authority
- Medical Cannabis Program
- Find Pharmaceutical Processors
- Board of Pharmacy
Get Your Virginia Medical Marijuana Card
MMJ.com connects Virginia patients with certified practitioners for convenient evaluations. Get certified and designate a registered agent to help with your medical cannabis needs.