It’s been a hot topic all across the United States: the legality of marijuana. Depending on which state you’re in, you’re going to find different answers on whether or not you can use it recreationally or medically.
It’s always good to have a map with you.
But if you find yourself in a state where recreational marijuana is legal, do you know the right protocol? Do you just go ahead and Google “recreational dispensary near me”?
Start Searching
To answer that first question, you simply go ahead and Google “recreational dispensary near me”.
You can also try looking for “cannabis dispensary” if you don’t find the results you want. When you do find one, make sure they’re actually open and that you can walk in and buy some.
Due to current laws, you’re not going to find any big-name dispensaries yet, as many of the places are locally owned and operated.
Don’t Forget Your I.D.
When you do find a place to check out, make sure you have a current photo I.D. with you. That could be an up-to-date passport, driver’s license, or state I.D.
If you have a temporary passport or driver’s license, that’s going to get you a rejection at the door. Yes, these places do check your I.D. before you enter.
Being relatively new players to the retail market, these small stores want to abide by the law as much as they can. Otherwise, they run the risk of being shut down early or incurring a heavy fine.
Bring Cash
Even though credit cards rule the country, many dispensaries are still a bit wary of accepting plastic.
Why is that?
While the state you’re in may say that the purchase of marijuana is legal, it’s still a pretty touchy subject on the federal level. Credit card companies want to make sure they stay on the good side of the federal government and many of them are a bit hesitant about accepting those charges.
Just to be safe, bring some cash with you. The best piece of advice is to carry around $40, especially if you have never purchased marijuana before.
It’s OK If You’re Clueless
When you walk into the store, you might be surprised to see how many different options are sitting behind the counter.
You have edibles, strains, and all kinds of other options for you to try. It may seem overwhelming at first, and that’s OK.
Feel free to ask all the questions you want to the clerk. It is their job to help you out. Many strains have bizarre sounding names but rest assured, that’s all part of the overall charm.
Abide by the Rules
It’s not uncommon, in the United States, to have an underage person approach you, hand you some money, and ask them to buy you cigarettes.
If that happens outside a dispensary, you’re best to just ignore them.
People caught giving marijuana to minors can spend up to two weeks in jail.
There are also various places that you can and cannot smoke what you’ve purchased. You’re not going to be able to take it into a dive bar or walk around on the street smoking. It’s best you keep it inside a private area.
Lastly, make sure you keep the lid/paper bag wrapped around your product. It’s not something you want to be overly flashy with.
