What are the medical cannabis laws in Virginia?

Here is a summary of the medical cannabis laws in Virginia as of October 2026:

1. Who Regulates the Program: Since January 1, 2024, Virginia’s medical cannabis program has been regulated by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA), which took over from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy.
2. Medical Conditions: Virginia does not have a fixed list of qualifying conditions. A licensed practitioner may certify a patient for any diagnosed condition or disease that the practitioner determines would benefit from medical cannabis.
3. Certification Process: Patients must be Virginia residents with a valid government-issued ID and must obtain a written certification from a licensed practitioner after an evaluation. Evaluations may be done by telehealth using real-time audio and video. A certification is valid for one year unless the practitioner sets an earlier expiration date.
4. Patient Registration: Registration with the CCA is optional. Patients do not need to register to buy medical cannabis; a written certification and a valid government-issued ID are enough at a licensed dispensary.
5. Dispensaries: Medical cannabis is sold at licensed dispensaries throughout Virginia, which are regulated by the CCA. Current locations are listed on the CCA’s dispensary locations page. Virginia dispensaries cannot accept medical cannabis cards from other states.
6. Product Availability: The program includes botanical cannabis (flower) as well as cannabis oil products such as tinctures, capsules, lozenges, topicals, patches and inhaled products. Availability varies by dispensary.
7. Employment Protections: Virginia law generally prohibits employers from firing or disciplining an employee for lawful use of cannabis oil with a valid written certification. There are exceptions, for example for impairment at work and for employers who would otherwise violate federal law or lose federal contracts or funding.
8. Adult-Use Cannabis: Separately from the medical program, adults 21 and older may possess limited amounts of marijuana and grow up to four plants per household. Licensed adult-use retail sales are not scheduled to begin until July 1, 2027, so medical dispensaries are currently the only legal place to buy cannabis in Virginia.

It’s important to stay updated on the latest laws and regulations in Virginia regarding medical cannabis, as they may evolve over time. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority publishes current rules, and a healthcare provider or legal professional can provide the most accurate and specific information for your situation.

Think you may qualify for medical cannabis in Virginia? Virginia Cannabis Clinic offers 15-minute telehealth video visits from home. See our certification pricing or book your telehealth appointment.