The way the world, or at least the United States, sees and treats cannabis is changing. With dispensaries opening up in many states, visiting one is a great way to get your fix. But there's a lot to learn when it comes to etiquette and how dispensaries operate. The tips below will guide you in the right direction as you start shopping for your legal cannabis.

1. Bring your identification.

In order to shop at a dispensary in the United States, you need to be 21 years old — and you need proof! Bring your preferred form of identification. A driver's license is a common choice, but a passport or government-issued photo ID will work, too.

2. Come with some idea of what you're looking for.

Most dispensaries post their "menus" online. These menus contain the strains they sell, and they also list the other cannabis products they carry — such as edibles and vape cartridges. You do not have to know exactly what you want to buy when you walk into the dispensary, but you should have some idea of what you're leaning towards. Take a look at the menu, and note a few things you're interested in. These could be strains of flower, or they could be edible products. This way, you know which products to ask about and seek out in the store.

3. Talk to the budtenders.

Yes, the people working behind the counter in a dispensary are called "budtenders." They're like a cross between a bartender and a retail worker. They are the ones who will cash you out, but they also know a lot about the products they're selling, and part of their job is to make recommendations to customers like you. Chat with them and ask specific questions. You'll be amazed at how much insight you gain. 

4. Don't get hung up on potency.

It can be tempting to walk into the dispensary and just buy the most potent strain you can find. But remember — this is not the black market. You'll pay more for the more potent strains. Unless you have quite a tolerance, you are probably better off choosing something middle-of-the-road with an 18–20% potency. This way, you can use a little more of the weed without the worry that you'll overdo it.

With the tips above, you can have a good experience at a dispensary. Enjoy yourself; the legalization of cannabis, even if only in certain situations, is something to celebrate.