What happens if you don’t have a medical card at a dispensary? There is no need for a medical card to be presented at the dispensary. If you wish to purchase marijuana at a dispensary, you will need to present a government-issued identification card.

There are also dispensaries where you can legally purchase marijuana in Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, and Washington.

However, local governments are permitted to set and enforce their own rules concerning the distribution, cultivation, and sale of marijuana. Medicinal marijuana strains could only be distributed to patients with specific medical conditions.

Why do you need a medical card to enter a dispensary? 

According to “compassionate medical cannabis law,” medical cannabis may be sold under strict conditions. Neither medical nor recreational marijuana use should be confused with this. Only patients with 23 state-approved medical conditions can purchase medical marijuana. (The next legislation set may include more conditions since some have already been added since the bill was passed.) Gov. Wolfe signed SB3 into law in 2016.

Using cards, the state can track how much marijuana is sold and who is buying it. Patients must not abuse the privileges of their medical cards, and dispensaries cannot violate state laws.

The state also controls a large part of the registration process for medical cards.

• Qualified patients must consult with only licensed, approved providers such as Cannabis Care Consultants.
• The state will only issue 50 licenses for dispensaries. Each dispensary may have multiple locations.
• A limited range of cannabis products will be available. For example, dried flowers can only be vaporized, not smoked.
• Producers must also adhere to the state’s growing regulations.
• It was set up to ensure that medical marijuana is available to patients as needed and handled by trained professionals, says the Pennsylvania State Department of Health. A certification process can take a while, which can be frustrating.

What things to know before your first dispensary visit?

It is useful to know what to expect when visiting a dispensary for the first time. Unlike regular retail shops, dispensaries are highly regulated. This should be understood before you make your first purchase.

• Health cards are required. 

If you intend to enter the dispensary, you need a valid medical card or a caregiver card. Your Pennsylvania driver’s license or identification card will also be required if it’s your first time visiting. A child under 18 years old can enter a dispensary without a medical card or caregiver card with a valid medical card. The dispensary accepts only valid cards, no photocopies, screenshots or replicas.

• Cash payment only

Are you still carrying cash? Many dispensaries only accept cash, but some accept debit cards with a minimal ATM fee. You can’t visit a dispensary unless you visit an ATM first. Make sure you call in advance before you go.

• One by one

Some patients find it surprising to learn that dispensaries can only handle one customer at a time, so expect to wait. You should be ready for the dispensary to be busy on the day of your errands.

• See your doctor first.

Lastly, if it’s your first time at the dispensary, it’s a good idea to consult with the pharmacist. Pharmacists can help you identify products that will help you reach your medical goals.

Can you enter a dispensary at 21? 

Valid photo identification is required to enter a any marijuana dispensary in New York, so you must be at least 21 years old. Those under the age of 21 are the only exceptions. Those over 18 may still purchase cannabis as long as they have a medical prescription.

Due to this, young adults with illnesses that require symptomatic relief or athletes seeking CBD-based products to aid in their recovery can still access the cannabis they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Can I Go to a Dispensary Before My Card Arrives?

If you do not possess a state-issued identification card, you are not permitted to enter a dispensary. Registration will be required at dispensaries, whether on their phones or printed out, and a state-issued license or photo identification. Minor patients will also be required to provide a barcode.

Medical marijuana cards are quick and easy to obtain. Patients suffering from any condition can get medical marijuana recommendations from medical marijuana practitioners. Once you have your recommendation and are registered with NY Marijuana Card, you can go to any dispensary. 

Want to obtain a medical cannabis card from us? Get in touch!