Visiting Washington, DC: how to buy cannabis legally

In Washington, DC, legal cannabis sales run through the city's medical cannabis program, regulated by the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA). Adults 21 and older, including visitors from other states and countries, can take part by registering with ABCA. Here is how it works.

1. Get a temporary registration from ABCA

Eligible visitors can register online for a temporary patient registration at myabca.dc.gov. ABCA says temporary registrations are digital and can be used as soon as you receive them. Registration is handled by ABCA, not by Weedeliver. Current fees are on ABCA's fee schedule.

2. Already a medical patient in another state?

If you are 21 or older and enrolled in a medical cannabis program that DC recognizes, you may be able to use that registration with an unexpired government photo ID, without a separate DC registration. Virginia patients have extra requirements. See the list of eligible places on ABCA's reciprocity page.

3. Buy from a licensed DC retailer

Purchases are made from ABCA-licensed retailers inside the District. ABCA keeps the official list on its Find a Medical Cannabis Retailer page. On Weedeliver you can compare menus, deals and delivery or pickup options from stores listed in Washington, DC.

4. Bring your ID

Have a valid government-issued photo ID ready. It is checked at delivery or pickup, and you must be 21 or older.

Good to know

Delivery from DC stores stays inside the District.
Do not carry cannabis across state lines.
Heading to Virginia? Licensed retail sales there are scheduled to start July 1, 2027. Virginia 2027

Sources: ABCA - Reciprocity, ABCA - Medical Cannabis Patients, myABCA. General information, not legal advice. Rules can change; check ABCA for the latest.