The Complete Guide to Cannabis Dispensaries in Washington DC
Washington DC has one of the most unusual cannabis systems in the country. This guide explains how it works, who can buy, what’s on sale and how to visit. Last reviewed: October 2026.
How DC's cannabis law works
In 2014, DC voters passed Initiative 71, which made it legal for adults 21 and over to possess and grow small amounts of cannabis. Congress then blocked the District from setting up a recreational sales market. The result is a split: possession is legal, but the only licensed sales are through the medical cannabis program.
That program is run by the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA), which licenses growers, manufacturers and retailers.
How licensed dispensaries work
Licensed retailers sell cannabis from licensed producers to registered patients. Products are lab tested and labeled, and stores must display their license. You can check any store in ABCA’s directory. More on our licensed dispensary DC page and in licensed vs unlicensed dispensaries.
Getting registered
DC residents aged 21 and over can self-certify online, with no doctor’s visit. Residents aged 18 to 20 need a practitioner’s recommendation. Read DC cannabis self-certification, how to buy cannabis legally in DC and the full registration guide. Registered patients can buy up to eight ounces in a rolling 30-day period.
Cannabis for visitors
Visitors have two routes. Patients registered in one of the 39 states and territories DC recognises can use that registration with a photo ID (Virginia patients also need their practitioner’s written certification). Anyone else can apply online for a temporary DC registration. See the visitor guide, plus pages for California, Maryland and Virginia visitors.
What dispensaries sell
- Flower: the dried bud, sold by weight. See the flower guide and indica vs sativa vs hybrid.
- Pre-rolls: flower that’s already rolled. See the pre-roll guide.
- Edibles: gummies, chocolates and drinks. See the edibles guide.
- Vapes: cartridges and disposables. See the vape guide.
- Concentrates: potent extracts. See the concentrates guide.
- Topicals: balms and lotions for the skin.
Whatever you buy, learn how to read a cannabis label.
Where you can and can't use cannabis
- Private homes: allowed, subject to the property’s own rules.
- Public places: not allowed. That includes streets, parks, bars and restaurants.
- Federal land: never. The National Mall, monuments and federal buildings are covered by federal law.
- Cars: never drive after using cannabis.
- Across state lines: don’t take cannabis out of DC.
Visiting Jars DC in Chinatown
Jars DC is at 610 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001, around the corner from Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro (Red, Green and Yellow lines). We’re open Sunday to Wednesday 11 AM to 7 PM and Thursday to Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM.
Directions from nearby: Chinatown, Capital One Arena, Gallery Place, Penn Quarter, the Convention Center, Union Station and downtown.
First visit?
Read your first visit to a DC dispensary so you know what to bring and what to expect.
Washington DC dispensary FAQs
Do I need a registration to buy from a licensed DC dispensary?
Yes. You need a DC patient registration or a recognised out-of-state one.
Can adults self-certify?
Yes, DC residents aged 21 and over can.
Can visitors buy cannabis?
Yes, through reciprocity or a temporary DC registration.
Can I browse before visiting?
Yes. The live menu shows current stock.
Where can I find more answers?
See our Washington DC cannabis FAQ.
