Medical Cannabis Authorization Database

Authorization Database

Medical cannabis patients with a valid authorization form from their healthcare practitioner may join the medical cannabis authorization database and receive their medical cannabis recognition card. Joining the authorization database is voluntary and isn't required in order to be a medical cannabis patient unless the patient is under the age of 18.

Benefits of joining the database
How to join the database
Changed your mind?

If you choose to no longer have an active medical cannabis recognition card or would like to revoke your designated provider, you may complete the Revocation Request form (Word) and mail it to the address at the top of the form. Be sure to notify any designated provider you revoke from the database.

Authorized patients not entered into the database
  • Patients and designated providers who hold valid authorizations but aren't entered into the database may purchase only in accordance with the laws and rules for non-patients.
  • They will have an affirmative defense to criminal prosecution if they possess no more than four plants and six ounces of usable cannabis.
Who can access database information

The medical cannabis authorization database is a secure system. State law (RCW 69.51A.230) strictly limits who can view database information and how the information can be used. Only the following people can see information from the database for the following purposes:

Access their patients' health care information from the database:

  • Authorizing health care practitioners.
  • Practitioners authorized to prescribe or dispense controlled substances.

Add patient information from the authorization form:

  • Certified medical cannabis consultants working in a medically endorsed cannabis store.

Provide administration or get reports:

  • Database administrator – data maintenance and store support.
  • Washington State Department of Health – ensure compliance.
  • Washington State Department of Revenue – sales tax-free reports.
  • Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board – aggregate data reports.

Verify that a card is valid:

  • Law enforcement.
  • Employee working in a medically endorsed cannabis store.

Non-disclosure

In addition, records in the medical cannabis authorization database containing names and other personally identifiable information of qualifying patients and designated providers are exempt from disclosure under RCW 42.56.625.