Smoking or consuming medical marijuana is legal in 15 states in the United States. California is the first one to adapt this kind of rules in accordance to the Compassionate Use Act (CUA), which was passed in 1996. It is the only state where qualified patients as well as their primary caregivers can grow and cultivate their own marijuana.  California marijuana cultivation laws strictly states that possession of the drug should not be more than, eight ounces, six matured or 12 immature plants. They can also grow not more than six plants in their own yard. However, qualified patients and caregivers can have more than stated above only if it is specified by a licensed doctor that is knowledgeable about medical marijuana treatment.

So, how do you smoke medical marijuana legally? California marijuana cultivation laws and other house bills draft these requirements before you can utilize marijuana:

• You need to be a qualified patient. To whether you are eligible, you have to consult a licensed medical doctor or any specialist that is licensed to recommend a medical marijuana treatment. The state of California has a complete roster of specialists that can give recommendations and is found on their health department website.
• Get a recommendation for a medical marijuana treatment from your doctor. Documentation about the said recommendation is also required. Be sure that important details such as the reason for recommendation, a diagnosis, and the doctor's license number should be included. Remember that not all consultations end up on a recommendation.
• Lastly, you have to apply for a medical marijuana identification card at the Medical Marijuana Program (MMP).

Dispensaries in the state of California do not accept medical marijuana identification cards from other states and countries. They may also have a registration fee but this is voluntary. Moreover, federal laws are imposed outside the state perimeters. Be sure you are not intoxicated or do not carry any form of marijuana when you travel.