If you’re getting ready to make your first dispensary trip, you might feel a bit nervous. That’s a common feeling and completely expected. The good news is that cannabis dispensaries continue to evolve, becoming more customer-friendly, even if you’re a cannabis beginner.

It’s also an amazing thing you’re about to do. You couldn’t buy cannabis legally anywhere in the United States a decade ago. Now, adult-use marijuana is legal in 18 states and medical marijuana is legal in 38. Buying legal cannabis is so accepted now that experts predict legal marijuana sales will reach $33 billion this year.

Still, doing anything for the first time can make anyone anxious. To help calm your concerns, here are some tips for your first dispensary trip.

Make Your First Dispensary Trip a Good One

The first thing to do is to enjoy yourself. You’ll be amazed at what dispensaries offer. The variety and quality of cannabis products grows with each passing month. You should have no problem finding a product that suits your needs.

There Are No “Dumb” Questions

No matter what anyone has told you, going to the dispensary is not a coolness test. It’s fine if you don’t know CBD from THC (here’s an article that explains the difference). Search a bit around this site. You will find information you can use. Once in the dispensary, ask budtenders any questions. They are there to make you feel at ease.

Look Online First 

A great way to find out the type of products available is to look at products in the online marketplace. You’ll also find ways to connect with some of the best brands in cannabis. In some cases, you might be able to buy what you’re looking for online.

Know What You Want

Some people just want to try a product with CBD or THC (or a mixture of the two) and see how it makes them feel. However, you might have a specific reason for wanting to try cannabis. Maybe you want something to help you sleep or relax at the end of the work day. Maybe you have muscle pain you want to manage better. Whatever the case, if you know ahead of time, it can help you focus your search for the right product.

Know Your Limits

With cannabis, it’s better to start with low dosages and see how they impact you. One big rule to keep in mind is that edibles work differently than smoking cannabis – it may take longer for you to feel the effects, but the high can last much longer.

Bring Cash and an ID

Most dispensaries will not let you in the door without showing a valid ID that proves you are 21. You’ll also want to bring cash, as most dispensaries remain a cash-only business.

Remember Dispensary Etiquette

It’s polite to give the other customer plenty of space, especially when they are talking with a budtender. They may discuss a medical condition or other personal issue, so don’t crowd them. People also frown on talking on your phone in a dispensary, it’s distracting from what should be a calm experience.

What You Can Expect to See

It’s important to note a few things that you will see or experience in a dispensary, so they are not a surprise.

Security. Due to what they sell and the cash-only nature of the business, expect dispensaries to have a security guard or two positioned at the door and in the store itself. You may also see security cameras.

Prepare for a wait. In some states, especially at medical marijuana dispensaries, the law allows store workers to only serve one person at a time. So, prepare for a bit of a wait during busy hours.

Paying taxes. States and local governments load up the sales taxes on cannabis purchases, so prepare to see that on your bill when you checkout.

Store rules. In addition to the etiquette mentioned above, some dispensaries have rules that they require customers to follow (such as not taking photos inside the store). They should be posted at or near the entrance.

Keeping these tips for your first dispensary trip in mind can make the experience more enjoyable. Going to a dispensary for the first time is something cannabis beginners do every day somewhere in this country. Just know you are not alone and that the best dispensaries are prepared to serve those new to the experience.