Short answer: no. Adults 21+ can buy and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extract from licensed dispensaries without a medical card. These adult-use purchases include a 10% state excise tax in addition to regular sales tax.

Pros of keeping or getting an Ohio medical card:

• Lower taxes per purchase: The 10% excise tax applies to adult-use sales, not medical sales, which can make medical purchases cheaper before any store promotions. Regular sales tax may still apply.
• Higher purchase/possession allowance: Medical patients can buy up to their 90-day supply under state rules, which is separate from adult-use limits.
• Access for younger patients: People under 21 with qualifying conditions can participate in the medical program through the patient registry and a caregiver. Patients under 18 cannot purchase themselves, but a registered caregiver can purchase on their behalf.

Cons of relying on a medical card

• Upfront and renewal steps: You need a physician recommendation and to maintain your registration, which takes time and money. (Process governed by Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Control Program.)
• No special workplace protections: Ohio law does not require employers to accommodate medical cannabis. Employers may enforce drug-free policies. A card does not guarantee job protection.

Bottom Line

If you are 21+ and make occasional purchases, adult-use access may be all you need. If you are a patient who buys regularly, wants larger purchase limits, or needs access under age 21 through a caregiver, a medical card can still offer meaningful benefits, especially around taxes and quantity rules.