How Long Does a Washington State Medical Marijuana Authorization Last?

Washington State medical marijuana authorizations are valid for one year from the date they are issued by a licensed physician. After one year, your authorization expires — and with it, your tax-exempt status, your higher possession limits, and your home cultivation rights under the medical program.

When exactly does my authorization expire?

Your written authorization includes an expiration date — exactly one year from the date of your evaluation. Green Wellness tracks your expiration date in our system and sends email reminders at 60, 30, 14, and 7 days before expiration. You can also check your expiration date in your patient portal at any time.

Does Washington require 1 or 2 visits per year?

Washington State law allows for authorizations that last up to one year. In practice, most patients need one evaluation per year. However, depending on your specific condition and treatment history, your physician may schedule a follow-up evaluation within the year. Your Green Wellness provider will advise you on the appropriate schedule for your situation at your appointment.

What happens when my authorization expires?

If your authorization expires before you renew:

• Your WA DOH MMED registration becomes inactive, removing your tax exemption
• Your possession limits revert to recreational levels (1 oz, 7g concentrate)
• Your home cultivation rights end
• You continue to be able to purchase cannabis recreationally, but without medical protections or tax exemptions

There is no grace period — expiration is immediate. Renew before your authorization expires to maintain continuous coverage.

Can I renew early?

Yes. You can renew up to 60 days before your expiration date. Your new authorization will be dated from the day of your renewal appointment, not from your old expiration date — so renewing early doesn't cost you any coverage time. In fact, renewing with a few weeks of buffer means you never have a gap.

How do renewals work at Green Wellness?

Renewal appointments are available via telehealth for returning patients — no travel required. Renewals take 15–30 minutes and cost $140. You can book your renewal online at any time, including same-day. After your renewal, upload your new written authorization to the WA DOH MMED portal to keep your database registration active.

Book your renewal appointment →