Vermont has a long history with medical cannabis — its program has been running since 2004, making it one of the oldest in the United States. If you are a parent in Vermont whose child has a debilitating condition, you may be wondering: can minors get a Medical Marijuana Card in Vermont? Yes, they can — though the application process involves extra steps for families with minor patients.
This guide covers Vermont’s 2026 rules for pediatric patients, including required documentation, caregiver rules, qualifying conditions, costs, and what changes when a minor turns 18.
Vermont’s Medical Cannabis Program: A Brief History
Vermont first legalized medical cannabis in 2004 and has expanded its program steadily over the years. In 2017, bill S.16 added PTSD, Crohn’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease to the list of qualifying conditions. The state became the first in the country to legalize recreational cannabis through legislative action rather than a ballot initiative in 2018, though retail sales did not begin until October 2022.
Today, the program is regulated by the Cannabis Control Board (CCB), which processes applications, issues registry identification cards, and oversees licensed dispensaries (called Registered Dispensaries in Vermont).
Even with recreational cannabis now legal for adults 21 and older, the medical program still matters. Registered patients benefit from tax advantages, higher possession limits, and priority access at dispensaries.
Can a Minor Access Medical Marijuana in Vermont?
Yes. Vermont’s medical cannabis program is open to both adults and minors. However, a patient under 18 cannot apply independently. Here is what Vermont law requires for a minor’s application:
- Proof of guardianship or power of attorney must be attached to the Patient Application Form.
- The minor must have a healthcare practitioner’s written recommendation on the Health Care Professional Verification Form.
- A caregiver must be named on the application — minors are allowed to have up to two caregivers.
- The caregiver must be at least 21 years old.
- Application materials must be mailed to the Cannabis Control Board — Vermont does not process minor applications through its online portal.
The mail-in requirement is particularly worth noting. Vermont’s online application system is designed for adults. All minor patient applications — along with a check or money order and a photo of the applicant — must be sent physically to the CCB at:
Cannabis Control Board Attn: Medical Cannabis Program 89 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-7001
At KIF Doctors, our physicians can help you navigate this process, including obtaining the proper Health Care Professional Verification Form for your child.
Qualifying Conditions for Minor Patients in Vermont
Vermont recognizes seven specific debilitating illnesses plus four symptomatic outcomes as qualifying conditions. A child must have at least one of the following:
Specific conditions:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- PTSD (requires attestation from a mental health care provider confirming active therapy)
- Other chronic or debilitating diseases causing qualifying symptoms
Qualifying symptoms (any chronic/debilitating illness that causes):
- Cachexia or wasting syndrome
- Chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Seizures
Vermont’s list has not been expanded since 2017, and there is no formal petition process for adding new conditions — only new legislation can do that. Families whose child’s condition does not appear on this list should consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine if the condition produces any of the four qualifying symptoms.
Vermont’s Caregiver System: What Parents Need to Know
A caregiver in Vermont must be at least 21 years old. Minor patients can designate up to two caregivers on their application, which is helpful when more than one parent or guardian needs to be involved in the child’s care.
Caregivers are authorized to:
- Purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries on the patient’s behalf
- Possess the patient’s cannabis supply
- Transport cannabis products for the patient
- Cultivate cannabis plants if the patient is registered to grow (this option is tracked with the Office of Cannabis Regulation)
Caregivers also apply through the CCB and receive their own registry identification card.
The Application Package for a Minor in Vermont
Compiling a complete minor patient application requires the following:
- Completed Patient Application Form with “Initial Application” checked
- Proof of guardianship or power of attorney attached
- Completed and signed Health Care Professional Verification Form from a Vermont-licensed provider
- A clear, recent colored digital photo of the patient (emailed to the CCB with the patient’s full name and date of birth in the subject line)
- Payment in the form of a check or money order made out to the Vermont Medical Cannabis Program
The entire package is mailed together. Once submitted, the CCB reviews the application and, if approved, mails the registry identification card to the patient’s address.
Pricing in Vermont: What to Budget for in 2026
Vermont’s costs for the medical cannabis program are:
- Patient registry card fee: $50
- Caregiver card fee: No separate charge listed for all caregivers — refer to current CCB guidelines
- Physician evaluation: Varies by provider — review KIF Doctors’ pricing page
- Products: Not covered by insurance; all costs are out of pocket
Vermont’s recreational cannabis is taxed, while registered medical patients benefit from reduced or eliminated taxes on their purchases at licensed dispensaries — a meaningful financial advantage for families managing ongoing treatment costs.
Minor Patient Renewal and the Transition to Adulthood
Vermont medical cannabis cards are renewed annually. When a minor patient turns 18, they become an adult participant in the program. At that point, they can apply online through the CCB’s adult registration portal, no longer need caregiver authorization, and can visit dispensaries independently.
For more helpful state-specific resources, visit KIF Doctors’ blog.
PTSD in Minor Patients: Special Note
Vermont requires PTSD patients to provide an attestation confirming they are active therapy clients. This applies to both adults and minors. The attestation can be provided through the Mental Health Care Provider form or by listing the therapist’s contact information. Parents of minor PTSD patients should ensure their child’s therapist is prepared to provide this documentation.
Start the Process Today
Can minors get a Medical Marijuana Card in Vermont? Yes — with parental consent, a caregiver, and the proper paperwork submitted by mail to the CCB. If your child has one of Vermont’s qualifying conditions, start with a physician evaluation.
Schedule your appointment with KIF Doctors and let us help your family navigate Vermont’s medical cannabis program in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a minor submit a Vermont medical marijuana application online?
No — Vermont’s online portal is for adult applicants only; minor patient applications must be mailed to the Cannabis Control Board.
How many caregivers can a minor patient have in Vermont?
Minor patients in Vermont can designate up to two caregivers.
What is the minimum caregiver age in Vermont?
Caregivers must be at least 21 years old.
Does Vermont recognize medical marijuana cards from other states?
Vermont does not offer reciprocity to out-of-state cardholders; patients from other states cannot use their cards in Vermont.
Are medical cannabis purchases tax-free for registered patients in Vermont?
Registered medical patients benefit from tax advantages over recreational consumers — contact your dispensary for current pricing.
Authoritative Sources
- Vermont Cannabis Control Board – Medical Cannabis Program
- Vermont Cannabis Control Board – Medical Applications, Forms and Submission
- Vermont Cannabis Control Board – Medical Program FAQs
- Vermont Statutes Title 18 Chapter 86 – Medical Cannabis Program
