FAQ’s

Kentucky patients may qualify if they have conditions such as cancer, chronic severe pain, epilepsy or other seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, muscle spasms or spasticity, chronic nausea or cyclic vomiting syndrome, or PTSD.

For a complete and up-to-date list of qualifying conditions, visit the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program’s Qualifying Conditions page.

The cost includes a medical evaluation and the state’s annual registration fee. Most medical evaluations range from $75–$300, and Kentucky charges a $25 annual registration fee.
To help make medical cannabis more accessible, KAC partners with the Kentucky Cannabis Industry Alliance (KCIA) to host Patient Drive Events, where participating authorized medical cannabis practitioners may offer certifications and renewals for as little as $25. Visit our Events page for current pricing and upcoming dates.

After you submit your completed application, Kentucky generally reviews it within 30 days, with registry cards typically issued within five days of approval. If you attend one of our Patient Drive Events, your medical evaluation, certification, state registration, and notarization can all be completed in one convenient visit. Once your registry card is issued, you’ll be able to purchase medical cannabis from any licensed Kentucky dispensary.

KAC does not issue or renew medical cannabis cards. However, we regularly host Patient Drive Events where participating authorized medical cannabis practitioners provide certifications and renewals onsite. Visit our Home page to register for an upcoming Patient Drive Event.

Yes. Kentucky allows registered caregivers to purchase medical cannabis on behalf of an approved patient. Caregivers must be registered with the state and present the required identification when making a purchase.

No. Walk-ins are always welcome during our regular business hours. If you already know what you’d like, you can also place an online order for pickup through the Shop Now section of our website.

When you arrive, we’ll verify your registry card and photo ID before checking you in. One of our Patient Consultants (also known as budtenders) will guide you through our menu, answer your questions, and help you understand the products available based on your goals and experience level. Whether you’re new to medical cannabis or have used it before, our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident before making a purchase.

Most first-time visits take about 15–30 minutes, depending on your questions and how much guidance you’d like. Returning patients are typically in and out much more quickly.

Only registered Kentucky medical cannabis patients and caregivers are permitted inside the dispensary. Anyone accompanying you must have their own valid Kentucky medical cannabis registry card and a government-issued photo ID to enter.

Absolutely. Registered patients and caregivers are welcome to browse our product selection before making a purchase. You can also explore our current inventory anytime through the Shop Now section of our website.

Because of Kentucky regulations, medical cannabis products cannot be returned or exchanged simply because you didn’t like them or they didn’t meet your expectations. If you experience a manufacturing defect, such as a leaking vape cartridge, please contact us. We’ll review the issue and help determine whether the product qualifies for replacement.

While Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are commonly used to describe cannabis, these terms originally referred to the plant’s physical characteristics and genetics—not necessarily the effects you’ll experience. Because every product contains a unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes, two products labeled “Indica” can produce different experiences. That’s why Kentucky Alternative Care uses terms like uplifting, balanced, and sedating to better describe the general experiences commonly associated with a product rather than relying solely on traditional strain labels.

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis and many other plants that help give each cannabis product its unique characteristics. Along with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes are one of several factors that contribute to a product’s overall characteristics and the experience patients commonly associate with it. Learning about terpene profiles can help you make more informed purchasing decisions based on whether you’re looking for an uplifting, balanced, or sedating experience—not simply the highest THC percentage.
Want to learn more? Download our free Terpenes 101 guide.

The right product depends on your comfort level, lifestyle, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Some patients prefer flower or vapes because they generally have a faster onset, while others choose edibles or tinctures because they may provide a longer duration. Topicals are applied directly to the skin, and concentrates are typically recommended for more experienced patients. Our Patient Consultants can provide educational information about our products and answer general questions to help you make informed purchasing decisions.

Want to learn more? Download our free Understanding Medical Cannabis Products guide.

The onset and duration of medical cannabis vary depending on the product type and the individual. In general, flower and vapes work within minutes, tinctures typically begin working within 15–60 minutes, and edibles may take 30 minutes to 2 hours before effects are felt. Because everyone responds differently, it’s important to be patient and avoid taking more before the product has had time to work.

Want to learn more? Download our free Understanding Medical Cannabis Products guide.

Everyone responds to medical cannabis differently, so there’s no single dose that’s right for everyone. If you’re new to medical cannabis, it’s generally best to start low and go slow, allowing enough time for the product to take effect before using more. Our Patient Consultants can provide educational information about our products and answer general questions, but you should always follow the recommendations provided by your authorized Kentucky medical cannabis practitioner.

Want to learn more? Download our free Know Your Limits guide.

While consuming too much medical cannabis can be uncomfortable, the effects are typically temporary. If you experience unwanted effects, try to remain calm, stay hydrated, rest in a comfortable environment, and avoid using additional cannabis until the effects have passed. If your symptoms are severe or you believe you’re experiencing a medical emergency, seek immediate medical attention or call 911.

For additional safety information and patient resources, review the official Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program Patient Education Brochure.

Store your medical cannabis in its original packaging in a cool, dry place that’s out of reach of children and pets. Keeping products in their original containers helps preserve important labeling information, including product details and expiration dates. Always store medical cannabis securely to help prevent accidental access or misuse.

Want to learn more? Download our free Safe Storage guide.

Microdosing is the practice of using a very small amount of medical cannabis to better understand how your body responds. Some patients choose this approach when they’re new to medical cannabis or trying a new product. Starting with a low amount and increasing gradually, if needed, allows patients to learn how their body responds to a product over time.

Want to learn more? Download our free Microdosing Cannabis guide.

No. Everyone’s experience with medical cannabis is different. Factors such as the product type, cannabinoid and terpene profile, individual body chemistry, and personal tolerance can all influence how someone responds. What works well for one patient may feel different for another,  which is why it’s important to start low, be patient, and learn what works best for you.

Kentucky Alternative Care accepts cash and debit cards for in-store purchases. Credit cards are not accepted, and an ATM is available inside the dispensary for your convenience. Debit card purchases are processed using a Cashless ATM system, meaning your transaction may be rounded to the nearest available amount. Any difference is returned as cash, and a small service fee applies.

The KAC Loyalty Program is free to join and rewards you every time you shop. To participate, you’ll receive an opt-in request by text message and email after enrolling. You must opt in to begin earning loyalty points and receiving KAC communications.

Your phone number is used to track your loyalty points, while your email allows Kentucky Alternative Care to send you promotions, event invitations, educational updates, new product releases, and store news. Kentucky Alternative Care respects your privacy and does not sell your personal information to third parties.

Loyalty points are earned based on your membership tier:
• White Tier (0–1,000 points): Earn 1 point for every $2 spent
• Green Tier (1,001–3,000 points): Earn 1 point for every $1 spent
• Gold Tier (3,001–5,000 points): Earn 2 points for every $1 spent

Redeem your points toward future purchases:
• 100 points = $5 off
• 200 points = $10 off
• 300 points = $15 off
• 400 points = $20 off
• 500 points = $25 off (maximum redemption per purchase)

Yes! Kentucky Alternative Care offers year-round discounts as well as rotating promotions, vendor specials, educational events, and seasonal savings throughout the year.

Our everyday discounts include:
• Veteran Discount: Receive 5% off every purchase.
• Birthday Discount: Receive 5% off one purchase during your birthday month.
• First Responder Discount: Receive 5% off every purchase.
• First-Time Patient Discount: Receive 10% off your first purchase with KAC.

We also offer limited-time promotions throughout the year. Because our promotions are always changing, we encourage you to join the KAC Newsletter for the latest product drops, exclusive offers, and store updates. You can also visit our website or ask a team member about current promotions. Please note that some promotions may have exclusions and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Due to Kentucky medical cannabis regulations, medical cannabis products cannot be returned or exchanged simply because you changed your mind or the product did not meet your expectations. If you receive a defective product, such as a malfunctioning vaporizer, please contact Kentucky Alternative Care as soon as possible. Eligible defects will be reviewed with the manufacturer according to its replacement policy. Please inspect your order before leaving the dispensary to confirm you received the correct products.

No. Never drive while impaired by medical cannabis. Kentucky law prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of cannabis. When transporting medical cannabis, keep it in its original container, out of the driver’s immediate reach, and secured so it requires at least a two-step process to access.

Yes, within Kentucky—as long as you follow state transportation requirements. Carry your registry identification or other proof of registration, and keep medical cannabis in its original container. Medical cannabis should never be transported across state lines, even if you’re traveling to another state with a medical cannabis program.

This is one of the most common questions we receive. Firearm laws involving medical cannabis are governed by federal law—not Kentucky’s medical cannabis program—and the legal landscape continues to evolve. Kentucky Alternative Care cannot provide legal advice on firearm ownership or purchases. If you own firearms or plan to purchase one, we recommend speaking with a qualified attorney before making any decisions.

No. Kentucky law does not allow patients or caregivers to grow medical cannabis at home. Medical cannabis must be purchased from a dispensary licensed by the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis.

Maybe. Your medical cannabis card does not automatically allow use at work. Employers may enforce workplace policies, including rules related to drug testing, impairment, and possession of medical cannabis on company property. If you have questions, review your employer’s policies before using medical cannabis.

No. Medical cannabis may only be used by the registered patient or handled by an approved designated caregiver on that patient’s behalf. Giving, selling, or transferring your medical cannabis to another person is prohibited under Kentucky law.

Maybe. Every state has its own laws regarding medical cannabis and whether it recognizes out-of-state patients. Before traveling, check the laws of your destination. Regardless of another state’s rules, medical cannabis should never be transported across state lines.