Is Weed Legal in DC? Official Guide to DC Weed Laws

If you’ve been wondering is weed legal in DC, the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Cannabis laws in the District of Columbia are unique, largely due to the city’s overlap with federal authority. Adults 21 and older are legally allowed to possess and use marijuana, but the laws around buying it are far more restricted.

As of 2025, you can legally possess up to two ounces of cannabis and consume it on private property. However, buying weed in DC for recreational use is still not legal. The only way to purchase cannabis legally is through a licensed medical dispensary, and only if you’re registered as a medical cannabis patient.

Thankfully, DC has made this process simple. Anyone 21 or older, whether you live in the city or are just visiting, can self-certify online and quickly register for a medical marijuana card. Once approved, you can shop legally at licensed dispensaries like Aligned DC.

This guide breaks down the current DC weed laws, what’s allowed, what isn’t, and how to stay compliant in the nation’s capital. Keep reading so you can avoid the legal gray areas and make informed choices.

DC Weed Laws Explained for 2025

Cannabis laws in Washington DC have changed significantly in recent years. While adult-use possession remains legal, recreational sales are not currently allowed. The District of Columbia cannabis laws now operate under a revised legal framework focused entirely on medical cannabis access for adults 21 and over through a self-certification system.

In this section, we’ll break down exactly what’s legal in 2025, what’s not, and how to stay compliant when using or purchasing weed in DC.

What’s Legal to Possess, Grow, and Share in DC

As of 2025, adults 21 and older in DC can legally:

• Possess up to two ounces of cannabis for personal use

• Grow up to six plants at home, with a maximum of three mature at any time

• Share up to one ounce of cannabis with another adult (21+) without exchanging money or goods

• Consume cannabis only on private property

These activities are protected under local law, but public use remains illegal, and unlicensed selling is still prohibited. So if you’re wondering is pot legal in Washington DC, the answer is yes for personal use, but only within these specific limits.

Federal Restrictions You Still Need to Follow

Washington DC is governed by both local and federal jurisdictions. While local law allows cannabis possession and use, federal law still prohibits it entirely. That means:

• You cannot bring or use cannabis on federal property, such as national parks, federal buildings, or monuments

• Crossing state lines with cannabis is still a federal offense, even if it’s purchased legally in DC

• Certain federal employees and contractors may face penalties for cannabis use, regardless of local protections

These overlapping rules are why it’s important to stay informed and make your purchases only through licensed medical marijuana dispensaries like Aligned DC.

Can You Buy Weed in DC?

Many people are surprised to learn that while cannabis possession is legal in DC, buying marijuana is not as simple. If you're wondering can you buy weed in DC, the short answer is yes, but only through the medical cannabis program.

As of 2025, recreational cannabis sales are still not legal in Washington DC. That means you cannot walk into a store and buy marijuana unless you're a registered medical patient. The only legal way to buy marijuana in DC is through a licensed dispensary like Aligned, and only after registering with the city’s medical program.

Why You Still Need a Medical Card to Buy Marijuana in DC

Despite the fact that adults 21 and over can legally possess cannabis in DC, the law still requires a medical marijuana card for any cannabis purchase. There are no licensed recreational dispensaries operating in the District.

So if you're asking can I buy weed in DC, the answer is yes, but only if you’re a medical cannabis patient. The good news is that anyone 21 or older, whether you're a local or a visitor, can self-certify online and get access to legal cannabis in minutes.

This system was designed to give adults a safe, legal, and regulated way to buy marijuana in DC without relying on unlicensed or risky options.

Buying Weed in DC as a Medical Cannabis Patient

Once you've registered for your medical card, the process of buying weed in DC is easy. Simply visit a licensed dispensary like Aligned, bring your ID and digital card, and explore a wide range of products including flower, edibles, tinctures, and concentrates.

Whether you're new to cannabis or know exactly what you’re looking for, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you through how to buy weed in DC legally, safely, and in line with your personal wellness goals.

At Aligned, we make buying weed in Washington DC simple, secure, and fully compliant with the latest cannabis laws.

Where to Buy Weed in DC Legally

If you’re looking for where to buy weed in DC, the only legal option in 2025 is through a licensed medical dispensary. You must be a registered patient to make a purchase, but the process is fast and open to both DC residents and visitors. Once you're registered, you’ll have access to safe, tested cannabis from legal providers like Aligned DC.

Although gifting shops once operated in a legal gray area, those are no longer considered compliant under current DC marijuana laws. If you want to avoid legal risks, it's important to understand the difference between licensed dispensaries and unregulated storefronts.

Licensed Dispensaries vs. Gifting Stores

In the past, many asked where to buy pot in DC or where to buy pot in Washington DC, and gifting shops became a common answer. These were businesses that claimed to give away cannabis when you purchased another item. That practice is no longer supported under DC law, and enforcement has increased in recent years.

Today, licensed dispensaries are the only way to legally obtain cannabis in the city. These locations are fully regulated, required to follow strict quality and safety standards, and serve patients through the medical program.

At Aligned DC, we’re proud to be a fully licensed weed dispensary in DC, offering reliable access to cannabis in a clean, professional, and wellness-focused environment.

Why Dispensaries Are Safer Than Gifting Shops

Gifting shops may still exist, but they are not regulated, tested, or legally protected. Buying from these sources puts you at risk of receiving unsafe products or facing legal consequences.

At a licensed dispensary in Washington DC, your purchase is protected under the medical cannabis program. You know exactly what you’re getting, and you’ll receive professional support along the way.

If you’re looking for a trusted source of pot in Washington DC, choosing a licensed dispensary like Aligned is the safest and most responsible option.

How to Get Weed in Washington DC Today

If you’re wondering how to get weed in DC, the good news is that the process is easier than ever as long as you go through the legal route. Whether you're a DC resident or just visiting, adults 21 and older can register as medical cannabis patients and legally shop at licensed dispensaries.

You don’t need a doctor’s visit, prescription, or referral. Thanks to DC’s medical cannabis program, anyone can self-certify online, receive a digital card, and start shopping the same day.

Not from DC? No problem. If you’re visiting and wondering how to get weed in Washington DC, you can still register for a temporary medical cannabis card. This makes it simple to buy cannabis in DC without taking legal risks or relying on unregulated sources.

At Aligned DC, we welcome both locals and travelers. Our team will walk you through everything, from registering for your card to choosing the right product for your needs.

Medical Cannabis Self-Certification for DC Residents

DC residents can apply for a medical cannabis card through a simple, free self-certification process. Once approved, the card is valid for up to 6 years, making it a convenient and long-term solution.

Here's what you'll need:

1. Complete an online form through the DC Department of Health website.

2. Submit proof of DC residency, such as:

   • DC driver’s license.

   • Government-issued ID and utility bill.

3. Upload a clear photo of your face.

4. If you’re enrolled in Medicaid or DC Alliance, upload documentation to receive a discount.

Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a temporary card within 10 minutes, valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being processed. You can use the temporary card to shop at Aligned immediately.

Medical Cannabis Access for Non-DC Residents

Visitors from reciprocity states with valid medical cannabis cards can also legally purchase cannabis in DC. However, if you don’t have a medical cannabis card, you can still apply for a temporary DC medical card in-store. Follow these steps based on your situation:

1. Fill out an online form with your details.

2. Upload:

   • A photo of your face.

   • A copy of your medical cannabis card and government-issued ID.

3. Select the duration of your temporary medical card:

   • 3 days: $10

   • 30 days: $20

   • 90 days: $50

   • 180 days: $75

   • 365 days: $100

4. Pay the corresponding fee and receive your temporary card or receipt within minutes.

This entire process can be completed in as little as 10 minutes, giving you quick and easy access to medical cannabis in compliance with DC laws.

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.

Staying Legal While Using Cannabis in DC

Even though cannabis is legal to possess and use privately in DC, there are still important rules to follow. Staying compliant with DC marijuana laws helps you avoid legal trouble and ensures your experience is safe and stress-free.

In this section, we’ll walk through what you can and can’t do when using weed in Washington DC, including where it’s legal to consume and what can still get you fined or penalized.

What’s Still Illegal and What to Avoid

Here’s what to steer clear of under District of Columbia weed laws:

• Public consumption is not allowed. That includes sidewalks, parks, bars, and restaurants.

• Possessing more than two ounces at a time is illegal.

• Selling cannabis without a license is strictly prohibited.

• Transporting cannabis across state lines, even if you bought it legally in DC, violates federal law.

• Driving under the influence of cannabis is treated the same as alcohol and carries serious penalties.

If you’re ever unsure, remember this: stick to private property, legal possession limits, and licensed dispensaries. That’s how to stay protected under Washington DC weed laws.

Public Use, Federal Property, and Possession Limits

Washington DC is filled with federal land and buildings, and cannabis is still illegal under federal law. That means you should never bring or use cannabis in:

• National parks

• Smithsonian museums

• Federal offices or monuments

• Military property

Even if you legally purchased your products from a DC dispensary, using them on federal grounds could lead to serious consequences. When in doubt, keep your use private and respectful of the law.

Conclusion on Weed Legalization in DC

So, is weed legal in DC in 2025? Yes, but only under specific conditions.

You’re allowed to possess up to two ounces of cannabis for personal use if you’re 21 or older, and you can consume it on private property. But if you want to buy weed in DC, you must register as a medical cannabis patient. Recreational sales are still not permitted, and public use, unlicensed sales, or possession over the legal limit can still lead to serious consequences.

If you’re a medical patient, the law allows you to possess up to eight ounces, and purchase cannabis legally from a licensed dispensary in Washington DC like Aligned.

DC Weed Law Reminders:

• Possession Limit: Up to 2 oz for non-patients, 8 oz for medical cardholders

• Sales: Still illegal unless through a licensed dispensary

• Use: Only legal on private property

• Federal Property: All cannabis use and possession remains illegal

DC’s cannabis laws can be confusing, but staying informed keeps you safe. Whether you’re just starting out or already part of the medical program, Aligned is here to help you navigate the process with confidence and care.

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)

Frequently Asked Questions on DC Weed Legalization:

Is weed legal in Washington DC?

Yes, adults 21 and older can legally possess and use cannabis in Washington DC. However, recreational sales are still not allowed. To purchase cannabis legally, you must register as a medical cannabis patient and shop at a licensed dispensary like Aligned.

Is It Legal to Smoke Weed in DC?

No, it is illegal to smoke marijuana in public in Washington D.C. However, adults over 21 can legally possess and consume marijuana on private property. As can medical cannabis patients. It is also illegal to possess marijuana on federal land, which includes many popular tourist attractions in DMV.

You need to take note of the fact that marijuana use in a public space. may result in a misdemeanor conviction of up to 60 days of jail time and a fine of up to $500 from law enforcement. Offenders may choose to go to court alternatively in line with the mayor's office's 2018 policy recommendations.

When did weed get legalized in DC?

Cannabis was legalized for personal possession and use by adults 21+ in Washington DC in 2015. However, recreational sales remain illegal. Only licensed medical cannabis dispensaries can legally sell cannabis to registered patients under the city’s medical program.

Does DC have weed dispensaries?

Yes. DC has licensed medical cannabis dispensaries where registered patients can legally buy cannabis products. Recreational dispensaries do not exist, and all legal sales must go through the city’s Medical Cannabis Program with a valid medical marijuana card.

Can you walk into a dispensary in DC?

You can walk into a DC dispensary if you're registered as a medical cannabis patient. Adults 21+ can self-certify online or in-store and receive a card within minutes, allowing legal access to shop at licensed dispensaries like Aligned.

Can I smoke weed in DC?

Yes, you can legally smoke weed in DC if you are 21 or older, but only on private property. Public consumption, including streets, parks, and federal land, is illegal and may result in fines or other legal consequences.

What drugs are legal in DC?

Cannabis is legal for adults 21+ to possess and use within certain limits. All other controlled substances remain illegal in DC. Decriminalization efforts have reduced penalties for some offenses, but possession of most drugs is still against the law.