The first-timer's guide to buying legal cannabis
Never shopped at a dispensary? Here is exactly what to expect, what to ask and how to start low and slow.
Walking into your first dispensary, or opening your first delivery menu, can feel like reading a wine list in another language. Here is the short version.
1. Bring a valid ID
You must be 21 or older with a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. It gets checked every time, for pickup and delivery.
2. Know your format
- Flower is the classic dried bud you smoke or vaporize. Effects arrive within minutes.
- Pre-rolls are ready-to-go joints.
- Vapes use cannabis oil in a cartridge. Fast-acting and discreet.
- Edibles take longer to kick in (often 30 minutes to 2 hours) and last longer.
- Tinctures and topicals are lower-key options.
3. Read the label
Look at total THC, CBD, the serving size and the test date. See our label guide.
4. Start low, go slow
Begin with a small amount, especially with edibles, and wait before taking more. You can always have more later; you cannot have less.
5. Ask questions
Tell your budtender what kind of experience you are looking for: relaxed, social, creative. That is more useful than chasing the highest THC number.
6. Be responsible
Never drive high, keep products away from kids and pets, and never carry cannabis across state lines.