Can You Enter a Dispensary at 18?

Attention all budding cannabis enthusiasts! Are you itching to explore the wonders of weed but not quite sure if you’re old enough to get your foot in the door? 

Well, fear not! We’ve got all the answers for you. In this blog post, we’ll be tackling one of the most frequently asked questions by young adults – can you enter a dispensary at 18? 

So sit back, light up (if that’s legal where you are), and let’s dive into the world of dispensaries and age restrictions.

Dispensary Age Rules By State

There are a variety of dispensary age rules by state. In some states, such as California and Colorado, the minimum age to enter a dispensary is 21. However, in other states, such as Oregon and Washington, the minimum age is 18. It is important to check the dispensary age rules of your state before attempting to enter a dispensary.

Alaska

In Alaska, the age limit for purchasing cannabis from a dispensary is 21 years old. This is the same age limit that applies to purchasing alcohol in the state. 

If you are under 21 years old, you will not be able to enter a dispensary or purchase any cannabis products.

Arizona

In Arizona, cannabis dispensaries are only allowed to sell to customers who are 21 years of age or older. This is in accordance with the state’s laws on cannabis use and possession. 

Any dispensary found to be selling to minors will be subject to strict penalties, so it is important for customers to be aware of this rule. Those who are under 21 years of age should not attempt to enter a dispensary, as they will not be able to make a purchase.

Arkansas

In Arkansas, the age limit for purchasing cannabis from a dispensary is 21 years old. This is the same age limit that is in place for purchasing alcohol in the state. 

If you are under the age of 21, you will not be able to enter a dispensary or purchase any cannabis products.

California

There are a few things to consider when answering this question. The first is that each dispensary sets its own policies regarding age limits. 

The second is that California law requires that all customers be at least 21 years old in order to purchase cannabis from a dispensary.

As far as the first point goes, it is always best to call ahead or check the website of the dispensary you plan on visiting to find out their specific age limit policy. 

Some dispensaries may allow minors to enter the premises if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian, while others may not allow anyone under the age of 21 inside, regardless of circumstances.

As for the second point, California’s legal age limit for purchasing cannabis from a dispensary is 21. This means that even if a particular dispensary has an age limit policy that is lower than 21, you will not be able to purchase cannabis from them unless you are 21 years of age or older. 

So if you are not yet 21, your best bet is to wait until you reach the legal age limit before attempting to buy cannabis from a dispensary in California.

Colorado

The legal age to purchase cannabis from a dispensary in Colorado is 21. This is the same as the legal drinking age in the state. 

If you are under 21, you will not be able to enter a dispensary. There are no exceptions to this rule. If you are caught trying to enter a dispensary under age, you may be subject to fines or other penalties.

Connecticut

In order to enter a cannabis dispensary in Connecticut, you must be at least 21 years of age. This is the same age requirement for purchasing and consuming alcohol in the state. 

ID will be checked at the door, so make sure to bring your driver’s license or passport with you. If you are under 21, you will not be allowed to enter the dispensary, even if you are accompanied by an adult.

Delaware

In Delaware, the age limit for entering a cannabis dispensary is 21 years old. Anyone under this age will not be permitted to enter the premises. 

This rule is strictly enforced by dispensary staff and security personnel. dispensaries in Delaware are also required to post signage at their entrances indicating the age limit for entry.

Washington, D.C.

In Washington, D.C., the age limit to enter a dispensary is 21 years old. This is the same age limit as for alcohol and tobacco products in the district. 

Dispensaries are required to check IDs at the door, so be sure to bring your government-issued ID with you when you visit a dispensary. If you’re caught trying to enter a dispensary under 21, you may be subject to a fine.

Florida

Cannabis dispensaries in Florida have age restrictions in place in order to ensure that only those of legal age are able to purchase and consume cannabis products. 

In order to enter a dispensary, customers must present a valid form of government-issued identification that shows they are 21 years of age or older. Those who do not have a valid ID or who are under the age of 21 will not be allowed to enter the dispensary.

Age requirements for cannabis dispensaries are in place to protect both the customers and the business. By ensuring that only those of legal age are able to enter the dispensary, businesses can avoid getting into trouble with the law. 

Additionally, it helps to prevent underage individuals from accessing cannabis products, which can be harmful to their health and development.

Hawaii

There are a few different age rules that dispensaries in Hawaii have to follow. The first rule is that you must be 21 years of age or older to enter a dispensary. 

This rule is in place because cannabis is still federally illegal and dispensaries are not allowed to sell to minors. 

The second rule is that you must be 18 years of age or older to possess or use cannabis in Hawaii. This rule is in place because the state of Hawaii does not want minors using or possessing cannabis.

Illinois

In order to enter a cannabis dispensary in Illinois, you must be 21 years of age or older. This is strictly enforced by all dispensaries in the state. 

If you are found to be under the age of 21, you will be asked to leave the premises immediately. There are no exceptions to this rule, so make sure you have your ID with you before entering a dispensary.

Louisiana

In Louisiana, the age limit for entering a cannabis dispensary is 21. This is in line with the age limit for purchasing and consuming alcohol in the state. 

Dispensaries will likely require customers to present a valid ID at the door. Those under 21 will not be allowed to enter.

Maine

Cannabis dispensaries in Maine are subject to strict age rules. Only adults aged 21 and over are allowed to enter and purchase products from these businesses. 

This is in line with the state’s general age restrictions for cannabis use. Dispensaries may require ID verification from customers before allowing them to enter the store.

Maryland

The age limit for dispensaries in Maryland is 21. This is the same as the age limit for alcohol and tobacco products in the state. 

If you are under 21, you will not be able to enter a dispensary, even if you are accompanied by an adult. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if you are a medical marijuana patient or caregiver.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the age limit for entering a cannabis dispensary is 21. This is the same age limit that applies to purchasing and consuming cannabis products in the state. 

Dispensaries are required to check ID at the door, so be sure to bring your driver’s license or other valid photo ID with you when you visit. If you’re not of legal age, you won’t be allowed to enter the dispensary.

Michigan

In Michigan, the age limit for entering a dispensary is 21. This is in line with the state’s legal age for purchasing and consuming cannabis. 

However, some dispensaries may have their own age limits in place, so it’s always best to check with the individual store before visiting.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, cannabis dispensaries are regulated by the state’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission. 

The commission has set the minimum age for dispensary patrons at 21 years old. This age limit is in place to ensure that only adults are able to purchase and consume cannabis products from dispensaries.

Dispensaries in Minnesota are required to check the ID of every customer who enters the store. 

If you do not have a valid ID, you will not be allowed to enter the dispensary. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure that only adults are able to purchase and consume cannabis products.

If you are under the age of 21, you will not be able to enter a Minnesota cannabis dispensary, even if you are accompanied by an adult. This rule is in place to protect minors from accessing cannabis products, which can be harmful to their health and development.

Missouri

In Missouri, the legal age to purchase and consume cannabis is 21. However, some dispensaries may have their own age requirements, so it is always best to check with the individual dispensary before visiting. 

In general, most dispensaries will not allow anyone under the age of 21 to enter the premises.

Montana

In Montana, cannabis dispensaries are required to check the ID of every person who enters the premises. 

This is to ensure that only those 21 years of age or older are able to purchase and consume cannabis products. If you do not have a valid form of ID on you, the dispensary staff will not be able to serve you.

Nevada

In the state of Nevada, it is illegal to sell cannabis to anyone under the age of 21. It is also illegal to consume cannabis in public. 

As a result, all dispensaries in the state are required to check ID at the door. If you are under 21, you will not be allowed to enter the dispensary.

Hampshire

In New Hampshire, the minimum age to enter a cannabis dispensary is 21 years old. This is in line with the state’s age requirement for purchasing and consuming alcohol. There are some exceptions to this rule, however. 

For instance, patients who are 18 years of age or older and have been diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition may be able to obtain a medical cannabis card from their physician. With this card, they would be able to visit a dispensary and purchase medical cannabis products.

New Jersey

In New Jersey, the legal age to purchase cannabis from a dispensary is 21. This is in line with the state’s alcohol laws, which also prohibit anyone under 21 from purchasing or consuming alcohol. 

If you are caught trying to enter a dispensary under the age of 21, you may be subject to penalties including a fine and/or jail time. So if you’re not of legal age, don’t even think about trying to enter a dispensary!

New Mexico

In New Mexico, cannabis dispensaries are regulated by the state’s medical cannabis program. The minimum age to enter a dispensary and purchase medical cannabis is 21.

Cannabis dispensaries in New Mexico are required to have security measures in place to ensure that only authorized patients and caregivers can enter the premises. When entering a dispensary, patients and caregivers must present their valid ID and medical cannabis card.

Dispensary staff will check your ID to verify your age and identity. They will also confirm that you are an authorized patient or caregiver before allowing you to enter the dispensary area. If you do not have a valid ID or medical cannabis card, you will not be allowed to enter the premises.

Once inside, patients and caregivers can browse the selection of medical cannabis products available for purchase. Dispensaries typically offer a variety of cannabis strains, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and other products.

New York

In New York, cannabis dispensaries are only open to adults aged 21 and over. There are no exceptions to this rule, so even if you are accompanied by an adult, you will not be able to enter the dispensary if you are under 21. 

If you attempt to enter a dispensary while under 21, you will be asked to leave and may be subject to legal action. So make sure you bring your ID with you when visiting a dispensary in New York!

North Dakota

In North Dakota, the age limit for purchasing cannabis from a dispensary is 21. This is in line with the age limit for purchasing alcohol in the state. 

If you are under 21 and are caught trying to purchase cannabis from a dispensary, you may be subject to fines and legal penalties.

Ohio

In Ohio, the legal age to enter a cannabis dispensary is 21. This is in line with the state’s age limit for purchasing and consuming cannabis products. 

Dispensaries are required to check ID at the door, so make sure you have your driver’s license or other government-issued ID ready when you arrive. If you’re not of legal age, you won’t be able to enter the dispensary, even if you’re accompanied by an adult.

Oklahoma

The answer to this question depends on the dispensary and the state in which it is located. In Oklahoma, most dispensaries require customers to be at least 21 years of age. 

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some dispensaries may allow customers who are 18 years of age or older to enter if they have a valid ID.

Oregon

In Oregon, the age limit for entering a cannabis dispensary is 21 years old. This is the same age limit that applies to purchasing and consuming cannabis products in the state. 

If you are under 21 years old, you will not be able to enter a dispensary, even if you are accompanied by an adult.

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, dispensaries are allowed to serve patients who are 21 years of age or older. 

However, some dispensaries may have additional age requirements in place, so it is always best to call ahead or check the website before visiting. 

For those under 21, medical cannabis is still an option with a valid ID and doctor’s recommendation.

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, cannabis dispensaries are regulated by the state’s Department of Business Regulation. Dispensaries must be licensed by the state in order to operate.

The minimum age to enter a dispensary in Rhode Island is 21 years old. This is the same minimum age for purchasing and consuming cannabis products in the state. 

ID will be required to enter a dispensary, so make sure to bring your driver’s license or other government-issued ID with you.

Utah

In Utah, the legal age to enter a cannabis dispensary is 21. This is in line with the state’s age requirements for alcohol and tobacco. If you are under 21, you will not be allowed to enter a dispensary.

Vermont

In order to enter a dispensary in Vermont, you must be 21 years of age or older. This is because all dispensaries in Vermont are required to follow the state’s age rules for cannabis use. 

If you are under the age of 21, you will not be able to enter a dispensary, even if you are accompanied by an adult.

Virginia

There are a few different age limits that dispensaries in Virginia have put in place. The first is that you must be at least 18 years old to enter the dispensary. 

This is the same age limit that is in place for alcohol and tobacco products. The second age limit is 21 years old. 

This is the age limit that is in place for purchasing cannabis products from the dispensary. Lastly, 25 years old is the age limit for consuming cannabis products on the premises of the dispensary.

Dispensaries in Virginia have put these age limits in place to comply with state law. Under state law, it is illegal to sell or give cannabis products to minors. 

It is also illegal to consume cannabis products on the premises of a business that sells alcohol or tobacco products. By complying with these age limits, dispensaries are able to stay within the bounds of state law and continue operating their businesses.

Washington

The legal age to enter a cannabis dispensary in Washington is 21. This is the same as the drinking age in the state. 

There are some exceptions to this rule, however. If you are 18 and have a valid medical marijuana card, you may be able to enter a dispensary. 

Additionally, if you are over 21 and accompanied by someone who is under 21, you may be able to enter as well.

What If You’re Underaged and Need Cannabis From a Dispensary?

If you’re under the age of 21 and need cannabis from a dispensary, there are a few things you need to know. In most states with legal cannabis, the minimum age to purchase weed is 21. 

However, there are a few states – like Oregon – that have made it legal for those 18 and older to buy cannabis from a dispensary with a valid ID.

If you’re not of legal age to purchase cannabis, your best bet is to find an adult who is willing to buy it for you. Keep in mind that most dispensaries require customers to be at least 21 years old, so finding an adult willing to do this may be difficult. 

In some states, like Colorado, it’s illegal for an adult to give or sell cannabis to someone who is underage. So, if you’re looking for an adult to help you out, make sure they’re okay with breaking the law before involving them in your plans.

Another option is to find a medical marijuana dispensary. In many states, medical patients can be as young as 18 years old (or younger, in some cases) with a valid doctor’s recommendation. 

However, keep in mind that not all dispensaries serve medical patients – some only serve recreational consumers. You can use Leafly’s dispensary locator tool to find out whether or not a particular dispensary serves medical patients.

Requirements to Enter a Dispensary

To enter a dispensary, individuals must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid government-issued ID. 

Some dispensaries may also require patients to provide additional documentation, such as a medical marijuana card.

The Bottom Line

The answer to this question depends on the state in which you live. In states where marijuana is legal for medicinal or recreational purposes, there are typically dispensaries that sell it. However, in states where marijuana is not legal, there are no dispensaries.

Resources:

• https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/where-is-marijuana-legal-a-guide-to-marijuana-legalization
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_cannabis
• https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/cannabis/patients/locations.html