To buy weed legally in New York City, you must be 21 or older and shop at a dispensary licensed by the state Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Bring a valid government photo ID. You do not need a medical card, and visitors from other states and countries can buy too.
Here is everything to know before your first visit, from what ID works to how much you can buy.
Key takeaways
- You must be 21 or older with a valid government photo ID.
- No medical card is needed, and tourists can buy with a passport or out-of-state license.
- You can possess up to 3 oz of flower and 24 g of concentrate.
How old do you have to be to go to a dispensary in NYC?
You must be 21 or older. Licensed dispensaries check ID at the door or at the counter, and no one under 21 can buy, possess or use adult-use cannabis in New York.
What do you need to bring to a dispensary?
Bring one valid, unexpired government photo ID that shows your date of birth. OCM accepts:
- A federal, state or local government ID with your photo and age, including IDNYC
- A driver’s license or non-driver ID from any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or a Canadian province
- A passport from the United States or any other country
- A U.S. armed forces ID card
Also bring a way to pay. Payment options vary by dispensary, so check with the store before you go.
Do you need a medical card to buy weed in NYC?
No. Adult-use dispensaries sell to anyone 21 and older with valid ID. A medical card is only needed to buy from medical dispensaries (Registered Organizations), which serve certified patients under the medical program.
Can tourists buy weed in NYC?
Yes. Visitors 21 and older can buy from licensed dispensaries using a valid ID. OCM accepts passports from any country and driver’s licenses from any U.S. state. The same possession and consumption rules apply to visitors as to residents.
How much weed can you buy in New York?
Adults 21 and older can possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis, such as vape oil or concentrates. Plan your purchase so you stay within those limits. See our guide to how many grams are in an ounce for the conversions.
What happens at a dispensary, step by step
- Find a licensed store. Check for the OCM verification QR sign by the entrance (see what is a dispensary).
- Show your ID. Staff verify you are 21 or older.
- Browse the menu. Many dispensaries post their menu online so you can plan ahead.
- Ask a budtender. Tell them what you are looking for: product type, potency, flavor, or effects you want to try. New to cannabis? Ask about lower-THC options.
- Check the label. Look for the universal symbol, the THC and CBD amounts, and the QR code to the lab report.
- Pay and go. Your products leave in sealed, child-resistant packaging.
Do NYC dispensaries take credit cards?
It depends on the store. Because cannabis is still illegal under federal law, many card networks restrict cannabis purchases. Some dispensaries take cash and debit only, and some have an ATM on site. Call ahead or check the store’s listing for current payment options.
What time do dispensaries close in NYC?
Hours vary by store and can change on holidays. Check the store’s Google Business Profile or call before you go.
Can you smoke right after you buy?
Only where it is allowed. In New York, adults may smoke or vape cannabis in most places where tobacco smoking is permitted, but not in cars, parks, beaches, restaurants, bars or other banned spots. Read our guide to New York cannabis laws before you light up.
Shop at Indoor Treez
- Midtown Manhattan: Indoor Treez 8th Avenue, 584 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018 · (646) 360-3961 · Our licensed dispensary in Midtown West
- Queens: Indoor Treez Howard Beach, 157-48 Cross Bay Blvd, Howard Beach, NY 11414 · (347) 561-3007 · Our dispensary near JFK in Howard Beach
See all locations.
FAQ
Is weed legal in NYC?
Yes. Adults 21 and older can legally buy cannabis from OCM-licensed dispensaries and possess up to 3 ounces of flower and 24 grams of concentrate.
Can I buy weed in NYC with an out-of-state ID?
Yes. A valid driver’s license or non-driver ID from any U.S. state is accepted, as is a passport from any country.
Do I need a medical card?
No. Medical cards are only required at medical dispensaries.
Can I use an expired ID?
No. OCM requires a valid ID showing your age and photo.
Can someone buy for me if I am under 21?
No. Giving or selling cannabis to anyone under 21 is illegal in New York.