Marijuana is now legal in some form in more than half of the United States, and that number is only going to continue to grow in the years to come. As more and more states legalize marijuana, people who have never used it before are going to be curious about trying it. If you’re one of these people, there are a few things you need to know before going to a dispensary for the first time. In this blog post, we will discuss 8 things that you need to know before visiting a marijuana dispensary!

Can Anyone Go to a Dispensary?

The answer to this question depends on the state you live in. In states where marijuana is fully legal, like Colorado, anyone over the age of 21 can walk into a dispensary and purchase weed. And if you’re in need of medical cannabis, you should be at least 18 years old and have a valid medical marijuana card, which can only be obtained from a licensed doctor. It’s important to note that each state has different laws regarding who can purchase marijuana and for what reasons, so be sure to do your research before heading to a dispensary.

What Can I Buy at a Dispensary?

The types of products you’ll find at a dispensary depend on the state you’re in and the specific dispensary you visit. In general, most marijuana dispensaries will carry a variety of marijuana flowers, edibles, concentrates, topicals, and more. The most popular product at dispensaries is marijuana flower, which can be smoked or used to make edibles. If you’re not sure what you want to buy, the staff at the dispensary will be more than happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs.

a bunch of marijuana flowers with CBD oil containers in the background

8 Things You Need to Know Before Going to a Marijuana Dispensary

Having never been to a dispensary before can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are eight things you need to know before setting foot in a marijuana dispensary:

1. You will need to show your ID

This is perhaps the most important thing to remember before going to a dispensary. In order to buy any marijuana products, you will need to show a valid, government-issued ID that proves you are 21 years of age or older. The ID doesn’t have to be a driver’s license; a passport or state ID card will also work. If you don’t have any form of ID on you, the dispensary won’t be able to sell you anything. A lot of people think they can use a fake ID to get into a dispensary, but this is a huge mistake. Not only will you not be able to buy anything, but you could also get in trouble with the law.

2. There is usually a waiting room

When you first walk into a dispensary, you will usually be directed to a waiting room where you will wait to be called back by a budtender. This is for the safety of both the customers and the employees, so please be patient and do not try to cut in line. The waiting room will usually have a TV playing and some chairs for you to sit in, so make yourself comfortable.

3. The budtenders are there to help you

Budtenders are the knowledgeable staff members who work at dispensaries and help medical and recreational customers choose the right products for their needs. When it’s your turn, they will ask you what kind of products you’re looking for and make recommendations based on your answers. It’s important to be honest with your budtender and let them know if you’re a first-time user or if you have any allergies. This way, they can help you find the perfect product that meets all of your needs.

4. You don’t have to buy anything right away

Dispensaries often have a wide variety of products available, and it can be tempting to want to buy everything at once. However, it’s important to take your time and make sure you’re choosing the right product for you. The budtenders will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and help you make a decision. If you’re still not sure, you can always ask to see the product before you buy it. It’s always recommended for first-time customers to start small and only buy what they need to avoid any unused products that will go to waste.

5. Cash is king

While some may accept credit cards, cash is still the preferred method of payment at many dispensaries. So be sure to stop by an ATM before heading to the dispensary so that you have enough cash on hand to cover your purchase. This will help you avoid any awkward situations at the register. Plus, paying with cash can also allow you to take advantage of any special deals or discounts that the dispensary may be offering.

6. There is often a limit on how much you can buy at one time

Due to state regulations, most dispensaries have daily or monthly limits on how much product each customer can purchase at one time. Be sure to check with your dispensary ahead of time so that you know how much you’re allowed to buy in one dispensary visit. From there, you can decide how much you need to purchase to last you until your next visit.

7. You may need to sign a form

In some states, dispensaries are required to have customers sign a form before they can purchase any products. This form is typically used to track how much product each customer is buying and help the dispensary keep within state regulations. If you’re asked to sign a form, simply read it over and make sure you understand everything before putting your name on the dotted line.

8. It’s important to be respectful

Just like any other business, it’s important to be respectful when you’re visiting a dispensary. This means not being disruptive, following all posted rules, and treating the employees with courtesy and respect. Remember, the budtenders are there to help you and they want you to have a positive dispensary experience. If you’re respectful, you’re more likely to be given the same treatment in return.

Final Thoughts

Visiting a Colorado dispensary for the first time can be a bit overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your first visit is a positive and productive one. It’s also important to remember that everyone’s experience is different, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and take your time. This is your chance to learn about all the different cannabis products available and find the perfect one for you. So go ahead and enjoy it!