Cannabis has been legal in DC for a while now, and new dispensaries are springing up by the minute. You’ve probably heard about all the awesome strains and cannabis products in dispensaries. And if you’ve not gone to check it out for yourself, then you’re missing out on a lot.
That being said, visiting a cannabis dispensary is not like your regular trip to the grocery store. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting a cannabis dispensary in DC, from what you need to what you’ll find once you get there.
What Do You Need When Visiting a Cannabis Dispensary in DC?
Your ID
This is the most important thing you need to bring when visiting a cannabis dispensary in DC. Although cannabis is legal here, you still have to be over the age of 21 before you’re allowed to buy it legally.
Regardless of the nature of the cannabis dispensary (whether medical or recreational), the budtender will need to see your ID immediately after you step in. So, before you head on your first cannabis dispensary visit, remember to bring a government-issued form of identification. This could be your state-issued identification card or driver’s license.
And if you’re looking to buy medical marijuana, you’ll need to bring your medical marijuana card.
Some Cash
Although some cannabis dispensaries accept credit and debit cards, there’s no sure way to know whether the dispensary you’re visiting accepts cash payments only. It’s quite disappointing to fill up your cart only to get to the counter and realize that you can’t pay for it.
To avoid such frustrations, you should bring some cash with you just in case. Alternatively, you can check the dispensary’s website for payment information.
How to Prepare Yourself for Your First Cannabis Dispensary Visit in DC
Think About What You Need
Before you set foot in a dispensary, you should think of what you want to achieve from the products you’re going to buy. Depending on their THC and CBD concentrations, cannabis products have different effects.
So before you choose which cannabis product you’ll buy, consider whether you just want to chill out or get energized. You can also go for something totally different from what you’ve been using; there’s no limit to what you can choose. You can make the most of your visit and try something new.
The budtenders at the cannabis dispensary will give you expert advice. Even if you’re just starting out on weed, you’ll get something that’s perfectly suited to what you’re looking for.
Do Some Research
Budtenders will always be available to answer your questions and give a few recommendations. However, that doesn’t mean that you should show up at a dispensary when you’re utterly clueless about what you want.
This is especially true if you’re new to cannabis. Doing a little research before your first dispensary visit can help you gain more confidence and ask more meaningful questions.
The first thing you should research is basic cannabis terms and products. Having a few cannabis strains in mind can also go a long way in helping you get what you want.
Check Store Availability
Cannabis dispensaries are perceived as your one-stop-shop for everything cannabis. But that doesn’t mean that the store you’re planning to visit has everything in stock.
This is especially crucial if you have a specific product in mind. Most cannabis dispensaries have an online menu on their website that clearly describes everything they have in stock. You can also call their customer service to inquire about a particular product.
What Level of Assistance Do You Need?
If you’re new to cannabis, you might need help finding the best product that suits your needs. Similarly, if you’ve been at it for some time, you might be more interested in a new strain or product. You might also want a ‘get in and get out’ experience if you already know what you’re looking for.
Regardless of the level of assistance you need, it is advisable that you keep it in mind, so you know what to say to the budtender. That way, they will understand your situation and spend more time explaining what you need to know.
If you already have a specific cannabis product in mind, you can also make a pickup order, so you don’t have to spend any unnecessary time in the dispensary.
What Is It Like in a Cannabis Dispensary?
There’s Tons of Security
Cannabis dispensaries have a lot of security for a retail business. For starters, someone will ask to see your ID right at the door, even if you look old enough to be an AARP member.
Also, most banks in DC are hesitant to make money from cannabis dispensaries since marijuana is not federally-approved. Therefore, most cannabis dispensaries run as cash-only businesses. This has resulted in the need to put extra security measures in place. These include both armed security and lots of surveillance cameras.
You Can Always Ask Questions
Employees in dispensaries are there to help streamline your experience. So, if you feel like you have any questions, no matter how big or small, feel free to ask.
You Might Have to Wait
Cannabis dispensaries in DC, especially medical dispensaries, are obliged to serve only one patient at a time. So, if you come in during busy hours, you might have to spend a few minutes in line.
You’re Not Obliged to Make a Purchase
Just because you visit a cannabis dispensary doesn’t mean you have to buy anything. For starters, cannabis is something that you generally can’t return. So, if you choose to buy a product, make sure you really want it. Nobody will blame you if you just want to look around; it’s a friendly space.
The Bottom Line
Shopping for cannabis products is always an exciting experience, no matter how many times you’ve done it. But, if you’re new at it, you might have some first-timer jitters. Don’t let that deter you. With the above-mentioned tips, you can make your first cannabis dispensary visit in DC both fulfilling and memorable.
