What is a Low THC Oil Card?
For those ready to explore Georgia’s budding medical cannabis industry, it’s important to understand how exactly the Peach State goes about things.
You may have already picked up on the distinct phrasing of “Low THC Oil Card.” This is essentially equivalent to a “medical marijuana card” in other states. The name is in reference to what specific products the state law allows patients to access and dispensaries to sell.
In Georgia, the legal medical cannabis program does not allow all medical cannabis products. Licensed patients still have access to a wide variety of options, though they can only contain certain amounts of THC cannabis oil.
Medical Cannabis Laws in Georgia
A licensed Georgia medical dispensary can sell products containing low THC cannabis oil, meaning they contain no more than 5% THC with a legal possession limit equivalent to 20 fl. oz. THC oil across products. Products like tinctures, topicals, capsules, and other ingestible options are currently legal for medical patients in the state.
However, options like cannabis flower or THC oil for vaping are still illegal. Legislation could change that, as Georgia’s medical cannabis program is still blooming.
Since recreational cannabis is still illegal in Georgia, residents must have a valid Low THC Oil Card in order to purchase from dispensaries. The process isn’t as daunting as it may seem, though there are a number of qualifying factors to consider.
Qualifying for a Low THC Oil Card in Georgia
Before you take the steps to get a Low THC Oil Card, be sure that you qualify for approval.
Residency and Age
Starting with the basics: If you want a card in Georgia, you’ll need to be a resident. You’ll need to provide proof of address through a valid state- or government-issued ID or driver’s license. Only people who have lived in Georgia one year or longer can receive their card.
There is no age requirement, but anyone under 18 needs a parent or guardian to apply and shop on their behalf.
Qualifying Conditions
Patients must also have one or more of Georgia's qualifying conditions to obtain a card and shop at a Georgia cannabis dispensary.
Georgia’s current qualifying conditions include:
- AIDS*
- Alzheimer’s disease*
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis*, when such diagnosis is severe or end stage
- Autism spectrum disorder (those 18 and younger must be diagnosed with severe autism)
- Cancer (end-stage diagnosis or when treatment leads to wasting illness or recalcitrant nausea and vomiting)
- Crohn’s disease
- Epidermolysis bullosa
- Intractable pain
- Mitochondrial disease
- Multiple sclerosis*
- Parkinson’s disease*
- Patient is in hospice program (inpatient or outpatient)
- Peripheral neuropathy*
- Post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from direct exposure to or witnessing of a trauma (must be over 18 and over)
- Seizure disorders associated with epilepsy or trauma-related head injuries
- Sickle cell disease*
- Tourette’s syndrome*
*must be severe (or end stage as applicable)
Expect to speak to a doctor about your medical history, current symptoms, and be prepared with any medical records pertaining to your qualifying condition. This is one of several steps in the process.
How to Get a Low THC Oil Card in Georgia
For qualifying Georgia residents, it’s fairly simple to get a Low THC Oil Card.
1. Make an Appointment with a Licensed MMJ Doctor
When you apply for a medical marijuana card in Georgia, the first step is making an appointment with a licensed MMJ doctor. You can secure your time online, with in-person and telehealth appointment options available.
Ahead of the appointment, gather any medical records that describe your qualifying condition. There will also be a fee for the visit, generally covering consultation fee, physician copay, and medical evaluation.
2. Complete Low THC Oil Card Consultation
It may vary, but you will likely submit any medical records or documentation before your actual appointment. The appointment itself will largely be spent discussing your condition, symptoms, and how you could potentially benefit from having your card.
Come prepared with any questions about medical cannabis or low THC products relating to your condition. Your physician will ultimately decide if you qualify, so having an appointment doesn’t guarantee a Low THC Oil Card.
3. Receive Low THC Oil Card
Once your physician and the Department of Public Health approve, you just need the card itself to access Georgia medical marijuana products. You won’t need to wait long, as most patients receive it in the mail within 10 business days.
Anyone without a permanent or secure mail address or using a P.O.Box can pick up their card in person at the nearest health department location. Patients will be notified when the card is ready for pickup, which requires a valid state- or government-issued ID.
4. Find and Enjoy Products from a Licensed Georgia Dispensary
Once you have your card, all that’s left to do is find your nearest licensed dispensary and get shopping. As mentioned, Georgia’s program is still growing with limited options across the state.
While locations in Evans, Macon, and Peachtree CornersYou can find Fine Fettle in Athens, Decatur, and Smyrna now!
Get Started with Fine Fettle
If you still need a Low THC Oil Card for yourself, Fine Fettle has you covered.
You can schedule an appointment here to pay a $89.99 fee, both for the initial card and renewals. Check out Fine Fettle’s Doctors Days as well. These in-store offerings help further guide patients through the process with personalized guidance, information about low THC oil, and other licensing assistance.
Once you have your Georgia medical marijuana card — or if you do already — we’re here and eager to assist! Fine Fettle has a collection of high-quality, therapeutic options sure to suit your needs and provide relief.
Stop by one of our locations, and check out our online menu.