Medical Cannabis in DC: How to Shop at a Medical Marijuana Dispensary in Washington, DC

Washington, DC's licensed cannabis market runs through its medical cannabis program. If you want to shop at a licensed cannabis dispensary in DC, you will need a medical cannabis registration first. The good news is that getting one is simpler than most people expect. This guide explains how the program works, what to bring, and what to expect at a medical marijuana dispensary in Washington, DC.

How DC's medical cannabis program works

The District's Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) runs the program and licenses the dispensaries. Registered patients and authorized caregivers can buy from licensed retailers, and licensed products go through required lab testing before they reach the shelf.

Getting registered: self-certification

Adults 21 and over can self-certify with the District instead of getting a recommendation from a health care provider. Our resident self-certification guide walks through each step. Visitors can apply for temporary registration, covered in our guide for visitors.

At Best Stop, staff can help you through self-certification right at the counter. It usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. The registration itself is filed directly with the District, not with us. See our get a card page to get started before you arrive.

What to bring to a medical marijuana dispensary in DC

• A valid government-issued photo ID

• Your DC medical cannabis registration, or a few minutes to self-certify on site

• A rough idea of what you want, or questions for staff

• A plan for getting home safely if you will use cannabis later

Our first-time patient checklist has the full list.

Shopping the menu

Medical cannabis dispensaries in DC carry many of the same product types you may have seen elsewhere: weed (flower), pre-rolls, vapes and carts and edibles. What makes a licensed medical dispensary different is the labeling and testing. Look for the THC and CBD content, whether numbers are per serving or per package, and batch information. Our guides to reading a cannabis menu and THC vs CBD on labels explain what the numbers mean.

If you take other medications, talk with your clinician before using cannabis. Our article on questions to ask your clinician can help you prepare. Dispensary staff can help you understand a label, but they cannot give medical advice.

Purchase limits and safe storage

DC sets limits on how much registered patients can buy, and those rules can change. Our guide to purchase limits, storage and responsible use covers the basics. Store products locked, labeled and away from children and pets, and never drive after using cannabis. Our cannabis and driving guide has tips for planning a safe ride.

Pickup and delivery for medical patients

Many patients prefer to order online. Best Stop offers in-store pickup and DC-only delivery to eligible registered patients. Check our delivery areas page or read our licensed delivery guide.

Best Stop Dispensary

Best Stop is a licensed medical cannabis dispensary at 3439B 14th St NW in Columbia Heights, a few blocks from the Columbia Heights Metro. See our visit page for directions.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a doctor to get a DC medical cannabis card?

Adults 21 and over can self-certify with the District, so a provider recommendation is not required for that route.

Can I sign up at the dispensary?

Our staff can walk you through self-certification at the counter in a few minutes. The registration is submitted directly to the District.

Is a medical dispensary different from a recreational one?

DC's licensed retailers operate under the medical program, so you need a registration to buy. Product types are similar, with labeling and testing rules set by the District.

This article is for general information for adults 21 and over. It is not medical or legal advice. DC rules can change, so confirm current requirements with the District's Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA).