Visiting a DC Dispensary: Beginner's Guide

Visiting a Medical Cannabis DC dispensary can be an exciting and rewarding experience. There are so many great products available that it may take a lot of work to know where to start. But before you make your way to the dispensary, there are some important things you should consider. This article will provide all the information you need to know before visiting a DC dispensary so you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.

What Is A DC Dispensary?

A D.C. dispensary is a licensed business that dispenses medical marijuana products. The store typically offers a variety of cannabis products, including flower, concentrates, edibles, topicals, and more. They can also provide medical advice about the best strains for certain conditions.

How Washington DC Dispensaries work

All DC dispensaries are regulated by the Alcoholic Beverages & Cannabis Administration and must adhere to strict laws and regulations set forth by the city. This means that only medical cannabis products are permitted for sale, and each dispensary must follow specific guidelines regarding production processes, packaging, labeling, and distribution.

Additionally, purchasers must have a valid medical marijuana card in order to enter and purchase marijuana products. This can be done easily by registering in minutes to become a Medical Cannabis Patient.

Is Recreational Weed Legal in Washington, D.C.?

Cannabis is legal in Washington, DC. However, the law is much different than in other states, because DC’s lack of statehood means we have to follow federal laws on many things and cannabis is still illegal on the federal level.

In DC, there are two different laws that govern the ability to possess and purchase cannabis. Legally, you can recreational possess up to two ounces of cannabis so long as you are 21+. But, in order to legally purchase cannabis in DC, you must visit a Medical Dispensary and purchase cannabis through the District’s Medical Program.

Now that you understand how dispensaries work, you might be wondering how one can join the Medical Cannabis Program.

Medical Cannabis Dispensaries Are Open To DC Residents & Tourists

You don't need to be a resident of D.C. or even visiting the DMV area to enjoy its fantastic weed laws. As long as you follow the rules, you're free to possess and smoke weed. The best part is that there are plenty of great medical dispensaries open to everyone in D.C. All you need to do is find one that suits your needs, and you'll be all set!

Getting Medical Marijuana in DC

You can only obtain medical marijuana from dispensaries in D.C. Unlike other places; recreational weed dispensaries do not exist here. In order to buy weed at a dispensary, you must self-certify that you will be using this cannabis for medical purposes through this online application.

Self-certification ensures legal access to cannabis in compliance with DC laws. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, it’s fast, easy, and fully secure.

In the Nation's Capital, the only way to legally purchase cannabis is through a licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensary like Aligned. Start the self-certification process today for a safe and seamless experience.

Getting a Medical Cannabis Card For DC Residents

The process of getting a medical marijuana card is quite simple.

All you need to do is go to the online portal and upload a copy of your ID and a photo of yourself! If you are a DC resident it's free and you automatically get registered for a 6 year card - you just need to show proof of residency through a DC driver’s license or utlitly bill,bank statement, etc. Non-DC residents can register for different lengths of time, such as a 3-day card for $10.

Once you fill out the form you are almost immediately emailed a link to begin shopping. Out of state residents will first be emailed a payment link to complete before being issued their card.

Getting a Medical Cannabis Card For Non-DC Residents

Visitors from reciprocity states can purchase cannabis in DC with a temporary medical cannabis card. Here’s how:

Complete an online form.
Upload:
- A photo of your face.
- Your ID and medical cannabis card.
Choose a card duration:
- 3 days: $10
- 30 days: $20
- 90 days: $50
- 180 days: $75
- 365 days: $100
Pay the fee and receive your card or receipt within 10 minutes.

Once you've been approved for the card, you can go to any dispensary in D.C. and purchase medical marijuana products.

If You DON’T Have a Medical Cannabis Card

If your home state does not have a reciprocity agreement or you don’t have a medical card, you can apply for a temporary DC medical cannabis card in-store.

✔ Visit a licensed dispensary like Aligned Wellness.

✔ Bring a valid, government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license).

✔ Fill out a short application in-store.

✔ Select the duration of your temporary card (3-day, 30-day, 90-day, 180-day, or 1-year options).

✔ Pay the corresponding fee based on your selected duration.

✔ Receive your Temporary Medical Cannabis Card within 10 minutes.

This entire process is quick and hassle-free, ensuring you can legally access medical cannabis in DC whether you have a medical card or not.

Cannabis Conclusion

Visiting a dispensary in Washington D.C. can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience, especially if you're well-informed about the laws and what to expect. Understanding the rules and options available will help ensure a smooth experience. Remember, while recreational sales aren't available at dispensaries, there are still legal ways to access cannabis in D.C. By choosing the right DC dispensary, you can safely enjoy the best products the city has to offer.

Ready for premium cannabis products? Shop online or call us at (202) 740-6670 to place your order today. Visit us in-store at 3715 Macomb St NW Suite 201, Washington, DC 20016, or enjoy the convenience of curbside pickup. Stay connected with us on Instagram for the latest updates and tips on cannabis in Washington DC!

Note: We accept cash and now also credit/debit card payments for purchases over $50 (21+ ID required and Medical Cannabis Card)

*Top Level is now Aligned DC. While our name has changed, our commitment to providing premium cannabis products and excellent service remains the same. Thank you for your continued support!