Can You Enter a Dispensary at 18?

As medical cannabis became legal in the United States, a misconception grew that once a state legalized it, anyone 18 or older could enter a dispensary and purchase medicine. However, reality is much different. So, can you enter a dispensary at 18? For those under 21, entrance is based upon having an active medical cannabis card recognized by the state they’re currently in.

Having a medical card at 18, or any age, has the potential for great benefits. And, one thing remains certain: the only way to legally enter a dispensary at 18 in America is to have a medical card. 

Recreational vs. Medical: Understanding the Difference

Cannabis legalization in the United States generally falls into two categories: adult-use (recreational) and medical. Rec dispensaries serve customers aged 21 and over with little to no exceptions. Anyone younger than 21 cannot legally enter such premises in US markets. Medical patients are often the only exception. 

Medical cannabis dispensaries follow similar yet different regulations, permitting access to patients of various ages, including those under 21. In many states, patients can often access dispensaries at 18 with a valid card. However, as each state implements its own regulations, patients and any associated caregivers should check the rules surrounding medical patients, particularly minors. 

State-by-State Variations

In the US, cannabis remains federally illegal. However, each state implements its own cannabis regulations, giving the country its patchwork regulations. In short, what’s legal in State A is not always the case in neighboring State B or elsewhere in the country. 

That said, states prohibit recreational shopping for those 21 and under, much like the rules around buying and consuming alcohol. Medical patients are the exception and are often allowed entrance at 18 if they hold an active medical recommendation or state-issued medical card. The keyword is “active.” Most states require annual renewals or periodic re-evaluations. If patients miss these key dates, they could lose their active access. Patients and their caregivers should stay ahead of these expiration dates and plan accordingly to avoid lapse. 

Out-of-state coverage is another core concern, as medical cards are only valid in their issuing state. Some states allow reciprocity, which recognizes some or all states’ medical IDs, or similar laws granting visiting patients legal access. Before crossing borders, patients should confirm which states accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards to prevent complications.

The Advantages of Getting a Medical Card Under 21

Depending on the state, having a medical cannabis card can be beneficial in numerous ways, regardless of age. Common market perks include: 

• Lower Taxes: Medical cannabis is typically taxed at a lower rate than recreational or eliminates some taxes on sales, allowing patients to save on essential medication without spending significant sums.
• Dosage Increase: Medical markets often offer expanded options to customers, including increased dosage allowances. The maximum single servings for edibles are typically increased to 20mg or more, depending on the state. 
• Higher Purchase Limits: Adult-use regulations often cap purchase limits at lower thresholds than medical consumers who may need more to address their symptoms and conditions. 
• Priority: Some state laws and hybrid dispensaries prioritize medical patients–granting them opportunities to skip long lines and/or ensure they receive products first.
• Legal Protections: Cards can grant certain legal safeguards, particularly regarding possession or consumption. 
• Entry: A valid medical cannabis card is the only legal way individuals under 21 can enter state-licensed dispensaries in the US.

Medical Cannabis Laws for People Under 21

In states with adult-use markets, rules state that dispensaries require all entrants to be at least 21 years old unless they have a valid medical cannabis recommendation or state-issued card. 

Many state medical programs permit minors to obtain medical cannabis, though a designated caregiver is often required to purchase and possess the cannabis. Patients typically gain more rights at age 18, when many states allow individuals to obtain a medical card and cannabis products independently. 

Limitations for Patients Under 21 With a Med Card

Having a medical card at 18 does not automatically grant unrestricted access. States often implement additional rules for patients under 21 to ensure responsible use that may limit access compared to the legal market. These may include:

• Purchase Limits: Younger patients might be allowed to buy certain amounts of cannabis within a given time-frame. Some states also cap potency for minors and sometimes adults, limiting access to high-dose products in these cases.
• Product Restrictions: Minors and patients under 21 may be limited to non-smokable cannabis forms, with product access focused often on oils and tinctures in most cases.
• Caregiver Requirements: Patients under 18 are often required to have one or more caregivers designated to handle purchases. Patients aged 18 to 20 typically can enter a dispensary and make their own purchases. Check state laws to verify. 
• Varying Product Certainty: In some states, like Maine, medical and recreational products operate under different rules, including required lab testing for adult-use products and none for medical.

Can You Enter a Dispensary at 18 With a Medical Card?

Yes, with a valid medical cannabis card, it is often possible to enter a dispensary at 18. States that have medical marijuana programs usually allow patients 18 or older to enter licensed medical dispensaries. However, some states may stipulate that a caregiver handles the minor’s shopping.

Obtaining a medical card at 18 usually starts with consulting a physician who can confirm that a medical condition qualifies for cannabis treatment. After receiving this recommendation, the next step may include registering with the state’s medical marijuana program, but this is not always required, depending on your state. Once approved and granted a medical card, an 18-year-old patient can typically purchase cannabis products at the dispensary. 

FAQs

Can an 18-Year-Old Enter a Dispensary With a Med Card?
Yes, in many states, a valid medical marijuana card allows individuals 18 or older to enter a medical dispensary legally. 

Can Someone Under 21 Go Into a Dispensary?
Yes, in a few cases. Without a medical card, most adult-use dispensaries maintain a strict minimum age of 21 to align with state laws. On the other hand, a valid medical card often literally and metaphorically opens the door to patients as young as 18. Anyone under 18 would likely need their caregiver to enter a store and purchase cannabis on their behalf. 

Policies outside the United States vary. Most Canadian provinces allow individuals to enter legally at 18 or 19. Quebec is the only exception, prohibiting adults under 21 from buying recreational products. 

Can a Child Be Brought Into a Dispensary?
Generally, no. Adult-use dispensaries rarely allow anyone under the legal age inside, but some states may allow exceptions for medical cannabis patients with children under a certain age. Check local regulations and/or contact the dispensary beforehand for clarification.

Can Someone Buy Edibles at 18?
With a medical card, buying edibles and other non-inhalable cannabis products is often allowed by age 18. Can a medical card be valid in more than one state?
Yes. Select states have a rule called reciprocity, which allows patients with a valid card issued by another state to purchase cannabis in their state while visiting. However, depending on the state's policy, several nuances exist. If possible, anyone planning on buying medical cannabis while traveling outside their home state should consult state laws well in advance of traveling.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.