Before You Apply for an Employee License
Be aware that applying for or holding a MED Employee License and/or working within the Colorado Regulated Marijuana industry may have adverse Federal Immigration consequences.
How to Apply
Please review the Employee Application (Form DR 8517) carefully to ensure you are eligible to hold this type of MED license. Once you have determined you are eligible, follow the steps outlined below to submit your application. Please don't fill out the linked PDF application until you decide whether you want to submit a hard copy or apply digitally.
Current fees
| License type | Application fee | License fee | Total due at application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee license (if applicant went through an approved third-party vendor for fingerprints) | $130 | $40 | $170 |
| Employee license (if applicant needs MED to do fingerprints) | $130 | $40 | $209.50 |
| Employee license renewal | $90 | $30 | $120 |
| Conditional employee license | $150 | $70 | $220 |
Application Checklist
Application
There are two ways to apply - please, pick only one option:
- Submit your application digitally online using the ML1 web portal. You can submit your application using your computer, phone, or another device - be aware that you will need to pay your full application fee via credit card or e-check at the time of submission. For detailed instructions see our training video.
Please review your application and ensure you have provided your complete address, including any apartment number.
- Submit a hard copy using an executable PDF that you mail, drop off, or make an appointment to submit.
Download and complete the MED Employee License Application (Form DR 8517). Don't forget to include all necessary supporting documentation and the full application fee. Incomplete applications, a lack of supporting documentation, or failure to submit the application fee will result in a delayed processing time.
Conduct a final review of your application to ensure your signature is provided in all required fields and that you've included the full application fee and all necessary supporting documentation.
Identification
- You must have some form of identification to apply.
- Your identification must have a photo
- You can apply with an out-of-state ID; however, the ID must be current.
- You can live anywhere in the U.S. and apply for a Colorado MED License/Badge.
- Keep in mind that the MED License/Badge is only valid in Colorado.
- You must include a copy of your identification in the application.
- If your identification does not list your current correct address, you can still use it to apply - please make sure you provide your current address on your application. Once a license is approved, the MED badge will be mailed to the mailing address listed on the application.
Fingerprints
If you have an in-person appointment ONLY, you may have your fingerprints taken during your appointment. Having fingerprints taken at the MED will cost an additional $39.50. Payments can be made by check, money order, and credit/debit cards. No cash will be accepted.
You must use a Third-Party Fingerprint Provider if you submit your application online, mail it in, or drop it off.
Have your fingerprints done after submitting your application (preferably within 7 days of submission) so your paperwork is in place and can be linked to your fingerprint report when it arrives from the third-party vendor.
- IdentoGo website (Service Code: 25YGBJ). Learn how to use IdentoGO on our web page.
- Colorado Fingerprinting (CBI Unique ID: 9500MAJI)
- Please see the MED Third-Party Fingerprint Provider page for more information.
Payment
The MED cannot complete the intake of your application without your payment of the Employee License Application Fee. Please see The Fee Schedule.
- Please include a check or money order with your application submission. NO CASH can be accepted at this time.
- If you are paying by check or money order, please make it payable to the Colorado Department of Revenue or CDOR.
- If you are paying by check or money order, please send only the amount due. DO NOT add on extra service fees, as they do not apply to fees submitted by mail.
- If you don't include a check or money order, the MED also offers an online payment option via the Colorado Interactive Payment System. For applicants using this online payment option, a MED staff member will contact you via email with a link to submit your payment.
- PLEASE NOTE: Inaccurate payment may delay the issuance of your license. Full and proper payment is required, so please double-check your payment before submitting it! For a summary of fees, please see our MED Fee Schedule.
Ways to Submit Your Application
Submit Digitally
Use your computer, phone, or another device with internet access to submit your application.
Do you want to RENEW your license? Please visit our License Renewal page.
Submit by Mail
Colorado Springs/Southern Regional Office
2447 North Union Blvd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Grand Junction/Western Slope Regional Office
200 Grand Ave., Suite 202
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Lakewood Office
1697 Cole Blvd., Suite 200
Lakewood, CO 80401
Drop Off In-Person
Lakewood Office Location Only
1697 Cole Blvd. Suite 200,
Lakewood, CO 80401
The MED Lakewood Office Drop Box is available from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Please place your complete applications in an envelope to keep the application intact.
In-Person (Appointments Only)
at MED Lakewood, Grand Junction, and Colorado Springs office locations
- Please use the appointment scheduling link to schedule an appointment. This tool will allow you to choose your appointment type and location closest to you.
- You must have your completed application and any additional documentation available at the time of your scheduled appointment.
- If you arrive more than ten (10) minutes late for your scheduled appointment, your appointment will be canceled, and you must reschedule.
I've Submitted My Application, What's Next?
- If you pass your background check your badge will be mailed to the mailing address you provided on your application.
- Be aware that by applying for an occupational license you have agreed that if your application is approved, you will keep the MED informed of any change of your home address and other contact information. You can do this via email at dor_medchanges@state.co.us or use your online account if you submitted your application digitally.
- If we need more information, you will be notified and given a period of time within which to provide us with the requested information.
- If you fail your background check, you will be notified and advised on steps to become eligible for licensure.
Replace or Update Your Badge
Order a Replacement Badge
To purchase a replacement Employee or Owner License use the ML1 website. As of Aug. 7, 2024, the cost of a replacement badge is $30, and you will need a credit card or e-check to make the purchase.
Update Your Information
If you've moved or changed your name since your license has been issued, please use the ML1 website to update your information at no cost or you can email us at dor_medchanges@state.co.us.