Yes. As of 2025, cannabis is fully legal in New Jersey for both medical and recreational use. Adults aged 21 and over can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. However, home cultivation remains illegal. Possessing more than six ounces or growing cannabis at home can result in criminal charges.

Click here for recreational laws (NJ).

Click here. for medicinal cannabis laws (NJ).

Unfortunately, insurance does not currently cover medical cannabis in New Jersey—or anywhere in the U.S.—because cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law. This means that the costs for doctor evaluations, state registration, and dispensary purchases must be paid out of pocket.

However, you can pay for cannabis guidance sessions using any major credit card, as well as HSA or FSA cards for eligible services. To keep these sessions affordable, I ask that you complete a short intake form prior to our appointment. This helps us make the most of our time together and keeps the conversation focused and efficient—without unnecessary expense.

A Certified Cannabis Nurse is a licensed healthcare professional with specialized training in cannabis science, the endocannabinoid system, and the safe, therapeutic use of cannabis. As a cannabis nurse, I provide education, guidance, and support to help you make informed decisions about incorporating cannabis into your wellness plan—whether for symptom management, stress relief, or overall balance.

What I don’t do: I do not prescribe cannabis, dispense products, or diagnose or treat medical conditions. My role is to educate and empower you to use cannabis safely and effectively, in collaboration with your healthcare provider when appropriate.

As a certified cannabis nurse, I provide educational guidance for adults aged 21 and over who are exploring cannabis for wellness, symptom relief, or general health support. This includes individuals curious about recreational use, those managing chronic conditions, or anyone seeking to integrate cannabis into their wellness routine. My services are educational and do not involve prescribing or supplying cannabis.

To obtain a medical cannabis card in New Jersey:

1. Consult with a certified healthcare provider: Schedule an appointment with a state-licensed medical cannabis doctor to receive a certification.

2. Register online: Use the certification to apply through the New Jersey Medicinal Cannabis Program (NJMCP) portal.

3. Provide necessary documentation: Upload proof of New Jersey residency and a valid state-issued ID.

Once approved, you'll receive a digital medical cannabis card, typically within 48 hours.

Click here, to enroll in NJ’s Medicinal Cannabis Program.

Holding a medical cannabis card in New Jersey offers several advantages:

• Higher purchase limits: Medical patients can purchase up to 3 ounces every 30 days, compared to the 1-ounce limit for recreational users.New Jersey Cannabis Information Portal

• Tax exemptions: Medical cannabis purchases are exempt from state sales tax, making them more affordable.

• Product access: Medical patients may have access to a broader range of products and potencies tailored to specific health needs.

• Healthcare oversight: Medical use involves guidance from a certified healthcare provider, ensuring personalized treatment plans.

1. Cost of the Card and Certification
   There is typically a fee to obtain the medical cannabis card, and some healthcare providers charge for the certification visit. This adds to the overall cost of cannabis use beyond just buying products.

2. Privacy Concerns
   Medical cannabis patients must register with the state’s Medicinal Cannabis Program, which involves submitting personal information that’s stored in a government database. Some people worry about privacy or stigma.

3. Limited Provider Access
   Not all doctors are certified or willing to provide medical cannabis recommendations, which can make obtaining a card difficult depending on your location or healthcare provider.

4. Potential Impact on Employment or Background Checks
   Though cannabis is legal, some employers may still have policies against its use, and having a medical card could potentially affect employment or professional licensing in certain fields.

5. Card Renewal and Paperwork
   The card needs to be renewed annually, which requires ongoing visits and fees, adding time and expense.

6. Restrictions on Use and Possession
   Even with a card, patients must follow state limits and rules. For example, cannabis cannot be consumed publicly or transported across state lines.

You can purchase recreational cannabis at any licensed dispensary in New Jersey if you are 21 or older.

There are over 180 licensed recreational dispensaries statewide, including popular locations like RISE and Social Leaf.

Most dispensaries accept cash, and some may take debit cards—check with your dispensary ahead of time. You’ll need a valid government-issued ID to buy.

Medical cannabis is available only to patients with a valid New Jersey medical cannabis card.

Licensed medical dispensaries such as NJ Leaf and Curaleaf serve cardholders.

When purchasing, you must present your medical cannabis card and a valid photo ID. Like recreational dispensaries, most medical dispensaries are cash-only, but some may accept debit cards.