How to Get a Medical Marijuana Prescription in Texas (2025): A Complete Guide for Seniors and Patients

Understand Texas CUP laws, qualifying conditions, physician steps, and dispensary access—updated for 2025 with legislative changes.

In This Article, You'll Discover:

A complete breakdown of the Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP) and its legal framework
Step-by-step instructions on how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas, including physician approval and dispensary access
Which medical conditions currently qualify — and what may change in the 2025 legislation
Details on legal low-THC cannabis products allowed in Texas and their usage guidelines
Costs, insurance coverage, and financial planning tips for patients and caregivers
Where to find licensed dispensaries and how statewide delivery works
Legal rights and responsibilities for Texas medical marijuana patients, including senior-friendly resources
Commonly asked questions related to safety, firearms, Medicare, and caregiver support.
Current legislative updates and what Texans should expect next in the state's evolving medical cannabis program

TL;DR: How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Texas (2025)

Texans seeking access to medical marijuana in 2025 must go through the Compassionate Use Program (CUP), which permits the use of low-THC cannabis products (currently capped at 0.5%, with proposed legislation aiming to raise it to 1%). There is no physical card—patients are added to a secure state registry by a licensed physician who determines eligibility based on qualifying medical conditions such as epilepsy, PTSD, and some cancers.

The process of getting a medical marijuana card in Texas involves a medical evaluation, physician approval, and purchasing from one of the state's licensed dispensaries. While the Texas House and Senate continue debating new reform bills, the program remains limited compared to other states, especially after chronic pain was removed from the current expansion.

Patients, especially seniors, must navigate a system that includes strict condition lists, out-of-pocket costs, and delivery logistics. However, the system is evolving, and there are helpful tools, such as physician lookup directories and telemedicine appointments, to support new applicants.

Prices vary depending on provider and product type. Always check official dispensary websites for current pricing, as costs are subject to change at any time. This guide will walk you through each step with clarity and compliance, helping Texans better understand their rights, responsibilities, and options under state law.

Introduction

In recent years, the legal landscape surrounding cannabis has shifted significantly across the United States—and Texas is no exception. While the state has not embraced recreational cannabis, it has implemented a limited medical program through the Compassionate Use Program (CUP). First established in 2015 and gradually expanded over time, CUP allows qualifying patients to obtain low-THC cannabis products for medical use.

Understanding how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas can be confusing, especially for seniors, caregivers, and first-time applicants. Unlike many other states, Texas does not issue a physical card. Instead, patients are registered digitally by approved physicians, and only a narrow list of conditions currently qualifies for treatment. Pending legislation in 2025 may bring essential updates, including an increase in the THC cap and broader eligibility for specific situations. However, the system remains limited compared to most states with medical cannabis laws.

This guide is designed to walk readers through every step of the process—clearly, accurately, and in plain language—while remaining fully compliant with Texas law. Whether you're researching for yourself or a loved one or simply trying to understand how the state's program works, this article offers a comprehensive overview of the Compassionate Use Program, current rules, and anticipated changes.

Texas residents deserve clear answers about their medical rights. This article provides that clarity, starting with what is currently legal and what may soon change.

Texas Medical Marijuana Laws: Current Status vs. Proposed Changes

What Is Legal Right Now

As of mid-2025, Texas permits the medical use of low-THC cannabis products through the Compassionate Use Program (CUP). This program is administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and is designed for individuals diagnosed with specific qualifying medical conditions. Unlike many states, Texas restricts cannabis access to products containing no more than 0.5% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by weight. These products are not available in raw flower or smokable form but are instead offered in oils, tinctures, capsules, and similar formulations.

There is no medical marijuana card in Texas. Instead, once a patient is evaluated and approved by a CUP-registered physician, their prescription is digitally recorded in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). This registry allows dispensaries to verify prescriptions at the point of sale, and a valid ID is required to pick up or receive deliveries.

What the 2025 Reform Bill Proposes

In a highly anticipated move, the Texas Legislature is considering a bill to expand the state's medical marijuana program. The Senate passed the bill in a scaled-back form and is now awaiting final approval from the House before it can be sent to the governor for signature.

The proposed changes include:

Increasing the THC cap from 0.5% to 1% by weight
Expanding qualifying conditions to include all forms of cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Creating a state-authorized medical cannabis research program

However, the version passed by the Senate removed two major provisions that were included in the earlier House version:

A higher THC cap of up to 5%, which was scaled back
The addition of chronic pain as a qualifying condition, which was eliminated in the final amendment

What This Means for Patients

If enacted, the reform would represent a modest but meaningful shift. It would allow more Texans—particularly veterans and cancer patients—to participate in the program. However, many advocates and medical professionals believe the changes don't go far enough. Chronic pain, which remains one of the most common qualifying conditions in other states, is still excluded from the Texas list as of the latest draft.

Texans should closely monitor the status of the bill. The current law remains in place until the new legislation is signed and enacted, which may happen later in 2025 if the bill passes through the House.

Who Is Eligible for Medical Marijuana in Texas?

Understanding who qualifies for medical marijuana in Texas is essential before beginning the registration process. The Compassionate Use Program has strict eligibility criteria, and only individuals who meet specific criteria may be approved by a licensed physician.

Residency and Age Requirements

To participate in the Texas Compassionate Use Program:

You must be a permanent resident of Texas.
There is no age restriction, meaning both adults and minors can qualify.
Patients under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian provide consent and often participate in medical consultations.

Proof of residency may be required by the prescribing physician or dispensary, typically in the form of a Texas-issued driver's license, state ID, or other documentation.

Current Qualifying Conditions (as of 2025)

As of now, the following medical conditions are approved under Texas law for treatment with low-THC cannabis:

Epilepsy
Seizure disorders
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Spasticity
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Autism
Incurable neurodegenerative diseases
Terminal cancer

The current program is tailored to a narrow range of severe conditions, which limits access for many Texans who may benefit from medical cannabis.

Conditions Potentially Added in 2025

Pending legislative approval, the following would also qualify:

All forms of cancer (not limited to terminal cases)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant step forward for veterans and trauma survivors

However, the most debated issue—chronic pain—was removed from the proposed legislation. If passed, this exclusion means patients with long-term pain diagnoses will still not qualify under CUP unless their condition falls under one of the other eligible categories.

Conditions Not Covered

The following conditions are not covered under the current program or pending updates:

Generalized anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Migraines
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia
Chronic pain (unless part of a broader diagnosis such as MS or ALS)

Anyone with these conditions will not be eligible unless the law is expanded further in future sessions.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Medical Marijuana Prescription in Texas

Navigating the process of how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas can feel complicated—especially since Texas does not use a physical card system. Instead, eligible patients are entered into a secure online registry by a licensed physician. This section outlines each step to help ensure a smooth and legally compliant experience.

Step 1: Find a CUP-Registered Physician

Only doctors registered with the Compassionate Use Program can prescribe low-THC cannabis in Texas. These physicians are listed in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), which is maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

To begin:

Visit the CURT Physician Lookup Tool on the DPS website
Search by city, zip code, or medical specialty
Contact a physician's office directly to request an appointment

Many registered physicians offer telemedicine consultations, which can be particularly helpful for seniors or individuals with mobility challenges.

Step 2: Complete the Medical Evaluation

During your consultation, the physician will:

Review your medical history and current diagnosis
Confirm that your condition qualifies under state law
Assess whether the potential benefits of low-THC cannabis outweigh the risks

The evaluation may involve submitting medical records or undergoing a basic physical examination, depending on the provider's process.

Physicians must determine that medical cannabis use is appropriate for your condition. While many patients with severe diagnoses are approved, approval is not guaranteed.

Step 3: Your Information Is Entered into CURT

If the physician approves you for treatment:

Your prescription and identifying details are entered into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas
No physical ID card is issued
You (or your legal guardian/caregiver) will not need to submit paperwork to the state directly

CURT is a secure system that can be accessed only by licensed dispensaries and registered physicians. When you visit or contact a dispensary, staff can verify your prescription using this system along with your Texas-issued ID.

Step 4: Fill Your Prescription at a Licensed Dispensary

Once your prescription is active in CURT:

Contact one of the state-licensed dispensaries to arrange delivery or in-store pickup
Present a valid Texas ID and any caregiver documentation, if applicable
You may be required to complete a brief intake or account setup process with the dispensary

Most dispensaries in Texas offer delivery services throughout the state. This is especially valuable for seniors, veterans, and rural residents who may have limited access to storefronts.

What Kind of Medical Cannabis Products Are Allowed?

Texas law permits only specific forms of medical cannabis, all of which must comply with the state's definition of low-THC products. Understanding what is and isn't allowed can help patients choose the appropriate treatment option without violating regulations.

Definition of Low-THC Cannabis in Texas

Under the Compassionate Use Program, low-THC cannabis is defined as a product derived from the cannabis plant that:

Contains no more than 0.5% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by weight under current law
May increase to 1% THC if proposed legislation in 2025 is approved
Contains a measurable amount of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound

This formulation is intended to deliver potential therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating effects typically associated with higher-THC products. All products must be processed and distributed by licensed dispensaries approved by the state.

Approved Forms of Medical Cannabis

The following forms are legally available to patients under the Compassionate Use Program:

Tinctures (oral liquid drops)
Oils
Capsules and tablets
Lozenges
Oral sprays
Topical creams and lotions

Each product must be clearly labeled and produced by a licensed dispensary. Products vary in dosage and strength, depending on the physician's prescription.

Prohibited Forms of Cannabis

Texas law prohibits the sale or possession of certain forms of cannabis, even for medical patients. These include:

Raw flower or plant material
Vaping products
Combustible or smokable cannabis
Edibles like baked goods or gummies that resemble recreational products

Any possession or use of these forms, even with a valid prescription, remains illegal under state law.

How Products Are Selected and Dispensed

Your prescribing physician will determine the following:

The appropriate dosage and delivery method
Whether adjustments are needed over time
How frequently you should follow up to assess treatment response

Licensed dispensaries often offer consultations to help patients understand how to administer the product safely. However, these interactions should not be used as substitutes for medical guidance and should always be discussed with your physician first.

Note: All cannabis-related therapies carry potential risks. The state-mandated THC limits are designed to reduce impairment and misuse, but individual responses to low-THC products may vary. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any medical treatment.

Texas Dispensaries: Where and How to Get Low-THC Cannabis

Once a physician has entered your prescription into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), the next step is obtaining your low-THC cannabis from a licensed dispensary. Texas has a tightly regulated dispensary system, and understanding how it works is essential for first-time patients.

Licensed Dispensaries in Texas

As of 2025, there are three state-licensed medical cannabis dispensing organizations authorized to operate in Texas:

Texas Original Compassionate Cultivation
Fluent (formerly Consortium Texas)
Goodblend (Surterra Texas LLC)

The Department of Public Safety permits each dispensary and must comply with strict standards for production, formulation, labeling, and distribution.

Delivery and Pickup Options

Given that Texas law currently limits each organization to a single storefront, most dispensaries offer statewide delivery services to accommodate patients across the state. Delivery services are beneficial for seniors, individuals in rural areas, and patients with mobility issues.

Delivery details may include:

Online or phone ordering, depending on the provider
Prescription verification through CURT and a state-issued ID
Delivery scheduling windows based on your region
ID verification upon delivery or pickup
Optional caregiver proxy designation if someone else will be receiving the order

Some dispensaries also host mobile pickup events or provide designated pickup locations in approved cities. Patients are encouraged to contact the dispensary directly for current service areas and procedures.

First-Time Patient Process

When filling your prescription for the first time, you may need to:

Create a patient profile on the dispensary's website or over the phone
Upload your valid Texas ID
Confirm your CURT registration and prescription status
Choose from eligible low-THC product formulations based on your physician's guidance

Dispensary staff are typically trained to guide patients through the selection process, ensuring the product matches what was prescribed. While they can answer general questions, they cannot alter dosages or issue medical advice.

Note: Prices for low-THC cannabis products vary by provider and formulation. Always check the official dispensary website for the most current pricing, as prices are subject to change at any time.

Costs and Financial Planning

One of the most common concerns for patients exploring how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas is cost. Because medical cannabis is not covered by insurance in Texas, all expenses are paid out-of-pocket. Planning can help avoid surprises and ensure you maintain access to your prescribed treatment.

Physician Consultation Fees

The first cost patients encounter is the initial consultation with a CUP-registered physician. Pricing varies depending on the provider, but standard fee ranges include:

Initial evaluation: $100 to $250
Follow-up appointments (if required): $50 to $150

Some clinics may offer discounts for veterans, seniors, or individuals with limited income. Telemedicine appointments can sometimes be more affordable than in-person visits.

Note: Texas does not charge a state registration fee because there is no formal card. The only costs are those billed directly by the physician.

Cannabis Product Pricing

The cost of low-THC cannabis products depends on the type, dosage, and quantity prescribed. General pricing estimates are:

Tinctures and oils: $60 to $150 per bottle
Capsules and tablets: $70 to $200 per monthly supply
Topicals or creams: $50 to $100 depending on concentration

Dispensaries may offer bundle pricing, subscription models, or loyalty programs. However, not all options are available in every region.

Always check the official website of your chosen dispensary for the most up-to-date pricing information, as prices are subject to change at any time.

Insurance and Reimbursement

At this time:

No private or public insurance plans (including Medicare or Medicaid) cover medical cannabis in Texas
Expenses cannot be reimbursed through health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

Patients should budget accordingly, particularly if cannabis is to be used as part of long-term care.

Discounts and Financial Support Options

Some dispensaries offer financial assistance programs, including:

Veteran discounts
Senior discounts
Low-income patient programs (availability varies)
Promotions or rebates for first-time patients

Patients are encouraged to inquire directly with dispensaries about current discount options and eligibility requirements.

FAQs for Texas Seniors

Many older adults exploring how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas have questions that go beyond the basic steps. This section addresses common concerns specifically relevant to seniors and their caregivers with straightforward and practical guidance.

Will medical marijuana affect my Medicare or Medicaid benefits?

Medicare or Medicaid does not cover medical marijuana. However, participation in the Texas Compassionate Use Program does not disqualify you from receiving federal or state benefits. All costs for physician consultations and cannabis products must be paid out-of-pocket and will not be reimbursed.

Can I still own or carry a firearm if I use medical cannabis?

Federal law still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, which creates a legal conflict for gun ownership. While Texas does not explicitly prohibit firearm possession for registered CUP patients, individuals should be aware of the federal restrictions. Consult with an attorney if you are concerned about how cannabis use may affect your eligibility to own or carry a firearm.

Is smoking cannabis allowed under the Compassionate Use Program?

No. Smoking or vaping cannabis is strictly prohibited under Texas law, even for medical patients. Only low-THC products in approved forms, such as tinctures, capsules, and topical creams, are permitted. Using unapproved forms, including edibles or flower, may lead to legal consequences.

Can a family member or caregiver help me obtain my prescription?

Yes. If a senior patient is unable to manage the process independently, a legal caregiver can assist. This may include:

Attending physician appointments (in person or via telehealth)
Placing orders with dispensaries
Receiving deliveries on behalf of the patient

The caregiver's information must be provided to the physician and/or dispensary, and they will likely need to show valid ID at the time of pickup or delivery.

Will my employer find out if I'm using medical marijuana?

Texas has no law requiring employers to accommodate medical cannabis use. Although your inclusion in the CURT registry is confidential, drug testing policies vary among employers. If you are subject to workplace testing or have safety-sensitive job duties, speak with your doctor and employer before beginning treatment.

Can I travel with medical cannabis in Texas?

You may carry your legally prescribed low-THC product within Texas, provided it remains in its original packaging and matches the prescription in the CURT system. However, taking any cannabis product across state lines is a violation of federal law, regardless of the THC content or legality in other states.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Patients and caregivers participating in the Compassionate Use Program should be aware of their rights and responsibilities under Texas law. While the state permits the use of low-THC cannabis for specific medical conditions, legal protections are not absolute, and particular risks remain.

Confidentiality and Registry Privacy

When a physician enters your information into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), your data is stored in a secure state-managed system. This registry is:

Accessible only to registered CUP physicians and licensed dispensary staff
Not viewable by law enforcement or employers unless legally compelled by a court order
Protected under Texas law and HIPAA guidelines regarding personal health information

This system ensures that your participation remains private unless you choose to disclose it.

Employment Protections

Texas does not have laws requiring employers to make accommodations for medical cannabis use. This means:

You may still be subject to employer drug testing policies.
Testing positive for THC—even from a legal, prescribed product—could result in disciplinary action or termination.
Patients working in transportation, healthcare, or safety-sensitive fields should use caution and consult their employer's policy before beginning treatment.

Doctors and dispensaries are not responsible for workplace consequences related to cannabis use.

Gun Ownership and Firearm Licensing

There is a legal gray area between federal and state laws when it comes to firearm ownership and medical marijuana use. While Texas does not currently prohibit CUP patients from owning or carrying firearms:

Federal law bars cannabis users from purchasing or possessing firearms.
Gun license applications often include questions about drug use, including marijuana.
Patients should consult a legal professional before applying for or renewing a License to Carry (LTC) if they are actively using medical cannabis.

No official state guidance overrides federal firearm restrictions.

Driving and Cannabis Use

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substance, including THC, is illegal. Even though Texas allows low-THC medical cannabis, patients may still face DUI charges if impaired behind the wheel.

Wait until you understand how the product affects you before driving
Avoid combining cannabis use with alcohol or other medications that impair coordination
Store products securely in your vehicle and never in reach of the driver's seat

Possession of products not dispensed by a licensed Texas dispensary may result in legal consequences.

Federal Legal Status

Cannabis remains illegal under federal law. While Texas has legalized specific low-THC formulations for medical use:

Transporting any cannabis product across state lines is a federal offense
Use of cannabis on federal property (such as military bases, airports, and national parks) is prohibited
Patients may not carry medical cannabis into other states, even if those states have their medical programs

Always use your prescribed products only within the boundaries of Texas and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Renewal and Ongoing Care

Once a patient has received approval and their prescription is entered into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), ongoing care is crucial for remaining compliant and continuing to receive treatment. At the same time, Texas does not issue physical medical marijuana cards or set a specific expiration date for prescriptions; ongoing physician oversight is still required.

Do Texas Medical Marijuana Prescriptions Expire?

Technically, prescriptions do not have a mandatory expiration under state law. However:

Each physician may set their own recommended duration for follow-up.
Dispensaries typically verify the active status of the prescription in CURT before each refill.
Many physicians require follow-up visits every 3 to 6 months to assess the patient's response and determine whether treatment should be continued or adjusted.

Patients who go too long without a follow-up may find their prescription has lapsed, requiring a new consultation to resume access.

How to Renew or Update a Prescription

If your condition changes or if your physician wants to adjust the product formulation or dosage, the prescription can be updated in CURT at any time. The process typically includes:

Scheduling a follow-up appointment (telehealth or in-person)
Reviewing how you've responded to the product
Discussing any side effects, dosage needs, or new health developments
Receiving a revised or extended prescription directly from the physician

There is no need to reapply or re-register with the state. Your physician handles all updates internally within the CURT system.

Staying Connected With Your Provider

Maintaining communication with your prescribing physician is key. They may:

Notify you when it's time for a check-in
Recommend product changes based on your health status
Discontinue your prescription if the treatment is no longer considered appropriate

Be proactive about booking follow-up visits and keeping your medical records up to date to ensure uninterrupted access to your care.

What to Do If You Change Doctors

If your original physician retires, moves, or decides to switch to another provider:

Your new physician must also be registered in the Compassionate Use Program
The new physician can access your CURT record but may require a complete re-evaluation before continuing treatment
Be sure to request your medical records from your previous doctor to streamline the process

Switching providers does not reset your CURT registration, but it does require new physician oversight.

Resources and Support

For Texas residents exploring how to get a medical marijuana card, especially seniors and caregivers navigating this process for the first time, having access to accurate and trustworthy resources is essential. The following tools and organizations can help you stay informed, find a qualified physician, and connect with others for guidance or support.

Official State Resources

These are the most reliable sources for up-to-date program information:

Texas Compassionate Use Program (CUP) Overview

texas.gov/health-services/texas-medical-marijuana/
Offers eligibility guidelines, legal summaries, and access links

Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT)

curt.dps.texas.gov
Use this to verify licensed physicians and check registry status

Texas Department of Public Safety – CUP Division

dps.texas.gov/section/compassionate-use-program
Provides regulatory updates, FAQs, and approved dispensary information

Finding a Registered Physician

You can search for a physician currently authorized to participate in the Compassionate Use Program using the CURT physician lookup tool:

curt.dps.texas.gov/app/public/searchPhysician.xhtml
Search by zip code, city, or specialty
Contact providers directly to ask about availability and consultation costs

Many registered physicians now offer telehealth evaluations, making access easier for individuals with limited mobility or those living in rural areas.

Dispensary Access and Contact Information

The following are the three licensed medical cannabis dispensing organizations in Texas as of 2025:

Texas Original Compassionate Cultivation – Based in Austin, offers statewide delivery
Fluent – San Antonio-based, part of a national dispensary group
Goodblend Texas (Surterra Wellness) – Serving patients via mobile delivery hubs and online ordering

Each of these providers offers education, product selection, and ordering assistance directly through their websites or customer service teams.

Advocacy and Patient Support Groups

For additional guidance, legal updates, and community support:

Texas NORML – Focused on cannabis law reform and patient advocacy
Texas Veterans for Medical Marijuana – Dedicated to expanding access for veterans
Epilepsy Foundation Texas – Offers support for families dealing with seizure-related conditions
Seniors for Medical Cannabis Access (SMCA) – National group providing senior-specific information and advocacy resources

These organizations can guide you on how to communicate effectively with your doctor, provide legislative updates, and connect you with peer support networks.

Final Thoughts

For many Texans—especially seniors and those managing chronic or life-altering medical conditions—the path to accessing legal medical cannabis is not always straightforward. While Texas does not offer a traditional medical marijuana card system, patients who qualify under the Compassionate Use Program can still obtain low-THC cannabis products legally and safely with physician approval.

The current law allows access to specific formulations of low-THC cannabis for a limited set of conditions, and ongoing legislative efforts may expand that list in the near future. Still, the process requires coordination between patients, physicians, and licensed dispensaries. For those new to the system, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to obtain a medical marijuana card in Texas, covering eligibility, legal limitations, physician evaluations, dispensary procedures, and patient rights.

For seniors or caregivers seeking more clarity, the best approach is to consult with a state-approved physician who participates in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). From there, licensed dispensaries and advocacy organizations can help guide you through product selection, delivery options, and continued care.

As the law continues to evolve, patients are encouraged to stay informed and revisit official sources for updates. Whether you're just starting your search or preparing for a physician evaluation, taking the time to understand your rights and responsibilities under Texas law is the best way to access medical cannabis confidently and responsibly.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medical treatment. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and availability of cannabis products, please refer to the official websites of licensed dispensaries, as costs are subject to change at any time.

Bonus Section: What Texans Should Know About the Future of Medical Marijuana Access

As more states expand access to cannabis therapies, patients in Texas are increasingly asking how their program compares, how laws may evolve, and whether there are legal alternatives for conditions not currently covered. This bonus section addresses common next steps, comparisons, and strategic planning for future access.

How Does Texas Compare to Other States?

While Texas has taken steps to legalize medical marijuana in limited form, it remains one of the most restrictive programs in the country. Here's how it stacks up:

No physical medical marijuana card – Texas uses a physician-entry registry system only
Low-THC limitation – The current THC cap is 0.5%; pending legislation, we may raise it to 1%, far below the 5% to 90% ranges allowed in many other states.
Narrow qualifying conditions – Unlike states like California or Oklahoma that include chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders, Texas excludes these under current law
No home cultivation – Texas prohibits growing cannabis at home, even for qualified patients.
Limited dispensaries – Only three licensed operators as of 2025, compared to dozens or even hundreds in other states

These restrictions may lead some patients to explore options in nearby states, but transporting cannabis across state lines remains illegal under federal law, even with a valid prescription.

What Are Legal Alternatives for Texans Who Don't Qualify?

If the Compassionate Use Program doesn't currently cover your condition, you may want to consider:

Hemp-derived CBD products – Legal statewide and available without a prescription, though often less potent and not subject to the same medical oversight
Out-of-state medical programs – Some states allow temporary access for non-residents, but Texas law prohibits bringing any cannabis products back home
Petitioning the state – Advocacy groups, such as Texas NORML, are working to expand the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. Contacting your state representative or attending public hearings can help push reform forward.

Always consult a healthcare provider and legal professional before pursuing any alternative product or treatment outside the state-approved program.

Preparing for Future Expansion in Texas

Texans considering how to get a medical marijuana card in the future—even if they don't qualify now—can still prepare by:

Keeping medical records organized in case new conditions are approved
Monitoring legislative updates each session, primarily through trusted organizations
Establishing a relationship with a CUP-registered physician for future evaluations
Signing up for alerts from the Texas Department of Public Safety or advocacy groups to track rule changes

As the national conversation around cannabis shifts and as patient demand grows in Texas, future legislative sessions may open access further. Seniors, caregivers, and veterans are among the voices most likely to influence change through organized advocacy.