Virginia Dispensary Guide

Virginia began its medical cannabis program in 2017, but the first Virginia dispensaries for medical patients wouldn't open until 2020. In July 2021, Virginia was the first Southern state to legalize recreational cannabis.

However, commercial sales haven't started for recreational consumers. Currently, there are 22 medical cannabis dispensaries in Virginia. Until recreational sales begin, they're the only legal and functioning dispensaries. This guide explores the cannabis side of Virginia’s laws and regulations, including details about its medical cannabis program.

Virginia Dispensary Overview

It’s important for Virginia residents who are also medical cannabis patients to understand what options are available to them.

How Many Medical Dispensaries Are In Virginia?

While still in its infancy compared to other states, there are 22 medical dispensaries – and counting. Medical cannabis patients can search for a "medical dispensary near me" to find their local option.

How Many Recreational Dispensaries Are In Virginia?

While recreational cannabis is legal, functioning infrastructure for it isn’t yet in place. There are no regulations for recreational shops to start operations, but this is expected to change in January 2025.

Are Home Deliveries Allowed In Virginia?

Yes, cannabis delivery services are allowed, but only for some medical cannabis patients. Check with individual dispensaries to see their home delivery policy and process.

Are There Any Drive-thru Dispensaries In Virginia?

No, there are no drive-thru dispensaries in Virginia. However, for safety and convenience, curbside pickup might be an option at some medical dispensaries. 

Are There Any Product Type Limitations In Virginia?

Medical patients can purchase cannabis from licensed shops. Each product can contain up to 10 milligrams of THC per serving. Any product, including edibles, topicals, and inhalables, is permitted. 

However, recreational consumers can only cultivate their own cannabis at this time.

For additional questions about Virginia dispensaries, browse the FAQs at the end of this guide.

Virginia Dispensaries: Recreational List

Virginia's medical cannabis program is still relatively new and continues to grow. On the other hand, its recreational program is still in its developmental stages.

Several factors have hindered the expansion of Virginia dispensaries. From political shifts to legislative hurdles, its renewed momentum is still uncertain.

Recreational sales are expected to begin in May 2025. The delay gives the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority time to establish a regulatory framework for commercial purposes. Tentatively, the licensing process will start in September 2024, and sales will begin by the middle of 2025.

Until then, dispensaries in Virginia remain solely medical. Visitors to Virginia must have a medical cannabis card to enter any dispensaries.

Virginia Medical Dispensaries 

Twenty-two operational Virginia dispensaries currently serve over 12,330 registered patients. However, the program's growth is steady. Regulatory frameworks continue to evolve to expand the state's medical cannabis program further.

Several factors slow the opening of more dispensaries in Virginia. Political shifts and differing priorities between lawmakers and the governor's office play a role. Likewise, ensuring fair competition within the market adds complexity to the regulatory process. That impacts the rate at which new dispensaries can be approved.

The number of medical cannabis shops is low compared to the number of Virginia medical cardholders. This shows the state that there's a growing demand for more dispensaries. In the meantime, below are five Virginia medical dispensaries. Or browse a complete list of dispensaries in Virginia.

Virginia Dispensary Deals

Percentage discounts might be the most common in Virginia, but deals vary from shop to shop. Patients can look forward to new patient discounts, among other things, just for entering a dispensary for the first time. Military, veteran, senior, and student/faculty discounts are common. Check with the individual dispensary to ensure the shop offers your desired discount.

To find deals, WeedMaps has a location-based system to help you look. However, individual Virginia dispensaries’ websites might make it easier to find relevant promotions. Some offer daily deals, so you can know what to expect depending on what day of the week you shop on. 

What's the Best Way to Take Advantage of Deals at a Virginia Dispensary?

The best way to keep an eye on the best deals is to sign up with the cannabis store near you. Loyalty programs across the state consistently save patients money. Being part of a loyalty program gives you more incentive to buy the medicine you already planned to purchase. This adds to the charm of medical cannabis, making it appealing for consumers still on the fence about becoming a patient.

---

What is the Minimum Age to Enter a Dispensary in Virginia?

Patients 18 and older may enter medical dispensaries according to current cannabis regulations. When recreational sales begin, only adults 21 and older will be able to enter recreational dispensaries.

What Do You Need to Enter and Purchase From a VA Dispensary?

To enter and buy from a Virginia dispensary, you need a valid state-issued ID and a medical cannabis card—the Virginia Board of Pharmacy issues medical marijuana cards to those who qualify.

How Much is Medical Marijuana in VA Medical Dispensaries?

The cost of cannabis varies depending on the product, dispensary, and more. Medical flower in Virginia is approximately $14 a gram with a 5.3% standard sales tax. When recreational cannabis goes into effect, there will be no additional excise tax. 

How Much Does it Cost to Get a MMJ Card to Access Medical Dispensaries in Virginia?

There’s no state fee to get an MMJ card in Virginia unless you’re a minor or caregiver, which the qualifying practitioner does not designate. Patients pay $50 for a medical card, and caregivers pay $25. 

If you’re still unsure how to get a med card in Virginia, NuggMD simplifies and expedites the process. For a low rate, NuggMD can connect you with a licensed Virginia medical cannabis doctor, sometimes in just minutes. You also only pay if approved, taking the worry out of the equation.

Are There Cannabis Purchase Limits in Virginia Dispensaries?

Yes, Virginia has purchase limits for medical cannabis users. Patients can buy up to a 90-day supply, and each single dose may contain up to 10 milligrams of THC.

What Medical Cannabis Products are Available in Virginia?

Medical VA dispensaries offer a wide range of products, including flower, oils, edibles, and topicals. Each dispensary may have different offerings, so it's best to check with individual shops for their specific inventory. 

Conclusion

While still young, Virginia's medical cannabis program is thriving and expanding. It offers patients access to high-quality cannabis products through several dispensaries across Virginia. With an increasing number of medical shops, it's the perfect time to explore medical cannabis here. Apply for a medical cannabis card today and get started on your own cannabis journey today by visiting NuggMD Virginia.