Recreational cannabis use has been legal in Washington state since 2012. If you’re new to the world of cannabis or new to the state, here’s a quick guide on what to expect when visiting a recreational marijuana dispensary in Washington.
You Need Cash on Hand
Dispensaries won’t accept credit or debit card payments or app payments, such as Cash App or Venmo. To purchase cannabis products in Washington, you must use cash. Some places that allow debit card payments treat them as ATM transactions, meaning your purchase gets rounded to the nearest dollar amount (i.e., $10, $20, etc.), and you don’t get change for your purchase. Bottom line: Bring cash for a seamless purchasing process.
Bring Your Identification
Do you want to purchase recreational marijuana? Make sure you have your identification. A driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID works fine. The ID must show your face and age, which must be at least 21.
Speak with a Budtender
Budtenders are the dispensary’s employees and are happy to make your experience a great one. They have a wealth of knowledge about the cannabis products in the store. They’ll help you choose from the many products and help you select items that fit your needs and budget.
Can I Buy Off the Street?
Recreational marijuana is only legal when you purchase from a licensed dispensary. If you buy from someone off the street, that’s illegal and could land you in hot water. Keep it legal and always purchase from a licensed recreational marijuana dispensary in Washington.
