For Veterans

You served. Your path to certification is easier.

North Dakota veterans using the VA Healthcare System don't need a provider appointment to get certified — your VA treatment records do the work for you.

①

No provider appointment required.

Because the VA cannot certify medical marijuana under federal law, North Dakota created a special pathway for veterans. Instead of a provider certification, you submit 12 months of your VA treatment notes directly to the state. That's it. The VA records replace the provider certification entirely — no clinic visit, no extra fees beyond the $40 state application.

What You Need

Four things to get started.

This process is entirely managed through the state — no third party provider needed.

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12 months of VA treatment notes

You need treatment records from the VA covering the past 12 months for your claimed qualifying condition. These replace the written certification from a provider that civilian patients require.

Request VA Records →
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Your DD-214

Your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This verifies your veteran status with the state. Request a copy at archives.gov/veterans if you need one.

Request Your DD-214 →
🪪

ND ID or Driver's License

Proof of North Dakota residency is required. A current ND driver's license or state-issued ID card will work.

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$40 application fee

The standard ND medical marijuana card application fee. Valid for two years. Pay online through the state portal by debit, credit, or e-check.

Apply on ND DOH Portal → How to Complete the Application (ND DOH Guide) →
Step by Step

How to apply as a veteran.

1

Get Your VA Treatment Records

Download 12 months of VA treatment notes from your MyHealtheVet account at myhealth.va.gov. If you need help, contact the Fargo VAHCS Release of Information office at (701) 239-3700 ext. 3418 or 3419.

Go to MyHealtheVet →
2

Request Your DD-214 if Needed

If you don't have a copy of your DD-214, request one through the National Archives. This is free and can be done online.

Request DD-214 →
3

Email Your Records to the State

Send your VA treatment notes and DD-214 to the North Dakota Division of Medical Marijuana at:

vetmm@nd.gov

Or mail physical copies to: Division of Medical Marijuana, 600 E. Boulevard Ave., Dept 301, Bismarck, ND 58505

4

Complete Your State Application

Submit your online application through the ND Medical Marijuana Program portal. When asked for a healthcare provider, indicate that you are a veteran using VA records. Pay the $40 fee and wait 2–4 weeks for approval.

Apply on ND DOH Portal →
Important: Your VA provider cannot complete the written certification form — this is prohibited under federal law. Do not ask your VA doctor to certify you. The veteran pathway using VA records was created specifically because of this restriction.
Common Questions

What veterans need to know.

Your application to the state program is separate from your VA medical record. The VA will not be notified that you applied for or received a state medical marijuana card. Your VA care is not affected by having a state registry card.
Having a North Dakota medical marijuana card does not affect your VA benefits, disability compensation, pension, or healthcare eligibility. However, VA facilities and providers cannot discuss, recommend, or assist with your state program — that's a federal restriction, not a reflection of your benefits status.
Contact the ND Division of Medical Marijuana directly at medmarijuana@nd.gov or (701) 328-1311 to discuss your situation. In some cases, records from other providers may be accepted as supplemental documentation. You can also reach the ND DOH veterans program team directly at vetmm@nd.gov.
Yes. The veteran pathway is an option, not a requirement. If you have a civilian primary care provider with whom you have an established relationship, you can use the standard certification process. The veteran pathway exists for veterans who primarily use the VA system and don't have a civilian provider relationship.
The fastest way is through your MyHealtheVet account where you can download your records directly. You can also contact the Fargo VAHCS Release of Information office at (701) 239-3700 ext. 3418 or 3419, or visit your nearest VA facility in person.

Ready to take the next step?

Start by gathering your VA treatment records from MyHealtheVet — it takes about 10 minutes and everything else follows from there.

Apply on ND DOH Portal → Back to Provider Directory Free resource. No sign-up required.