What should you keep in mind if you’re new to visiting a cannabis shop? Fortunately, basic etiquette forms the core of dispensary social norms. In this guide, we will dive into cannabis dispensary etiquette to help you prepare for your first visit.
Dispensary Dos
Let’s start with a few polite behaviors to keep in mind before your next visit to the dispensary: simple actions that can help ensure a smooth and pleasant experience.
Be Prepared
Before you head to the dispensary, make sure to grab a few things:
- Identification: Nearly every dispensary requires a state or federal photo ID to confirm your age and identity. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. Be aware that non-state IDs (such as university student cards) or IDs without photos (like Social Security cards or voter registration cards) may not be accepted at your dispensary.
- Medical Marijuana Card: If you have a medical marijuana card, make sure you bring it with you.
- Payment: Although medical cannabis programs are expanding, many dispensaries still operate on a cash-only basis due to regulatory challenges. However, this isn’t always the case, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm whether your dispensary accepts credit or debit cards, or if you should bring cash
Do Wait for Your Turn
Arriving at the dispensary is much like stepping up to the bar at your favorite pub: depending on the crowd, you may need to bring some patience. If there’s a line, wait your turn politely.
Each dispensary manages its service lines differently, so you might encounter:
- A formal queue, similar to a bank’s setup.
- An informal counter system, akin to a bar.
- A number-based system, like at a deli or butcher shop.
In dispensaries with informal line systems, you might have the opportunity to browse products while you wait. If this is the case, feel free to explore the selections, but be sure to give other customers enough space to speak with the budtenders discreetly.
In other words, maintain a respectful distance—you’ll want the same consideration when it’s your turn.
Do Expect Questions
When it’s your turn, you’ll meet with a budtender, a dispensary expert with extensive knowledge of cannabis, its active ingredients, dosages, and effects.
Budtenders are your guide to the world of cannabis, offering valuable insights that will be helpful throughout your treatment journey.
To help you select the right products, budtenders might ask a few important questions, such as:
- What symptoms or health issues are you using cannabis to address?
- What’s your budget?
- What type of cannabis experience are you seeking?
- What are your goals for medical cannabis treatment?
Preparing answers to these questions ahead of time can streamline your visit and give you a moment to reflect on your treatment goals.
Dispensary Don’ts
We’ve discussed some courtesy tips, but let’s highlight two behaviors to avoid during your next visit to the dispensary.
Don’t Monopolize the Budtenders’ Time
During your first visit to a dispensary, it’s easy to feel the urge to ask your budtender every question about products, effects, pricing, and methods of administration. However, if there’s a line of customers behind you, it’s best to save less critical questions for another time.
Focus on achieving these key objectives during your initial visit:
- Identifying one or more strains or product types to try
- Learning about proper dosage and timing
- Requesting any administration tips
Once you have a solid understanding of the products and how to use them, you can ask additional questions if the dispensary isn’t crowded.
While it’s important to take the time you need to cover the essentials, remember to be considerate of other customers waiting in line.
Don’t Bring Unauthorized People to the Dispensary
Here are two key reasons why you shouldn’t bring a group to the dispensary:
- Unauthorized patrons may be restricted from entering. Dispensaries often have strict policies to ensure only those with valid IDs or medical marijuana cards are allowed inside. Allowing unauthorized individuals to enter can have legal repercussions for dispensary staff and owners. This means anyone under the legal age or without a valid medical card will likely be turned away.
- Non-shopping companions take up valuable space. Bringing a friend who isn’t shopping to the dispensary is akin to bringing someone without a reservation to a restaurant. While they might be able to wait in a designated area, they occupy space that could otherwise be used by card-carrying customers.
The most considerate approach is to visit the dispensary alone or with another authorized customer. Although dispensaries aim to be welcoming, they’re primarily places of business, not social gathering spots.
Best Marijuana Dispensary in Maryland
Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to our patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
