How to check a Washington cannabis license

1. Search LCB’s license list

LCB tells shoppers to check its map of licensed stores or its list of licensed stores.¹ The list is a spreadsheet that downloads to your device.²

1. Go to LCB’s Frequently Requested Lists page .
2. Open Cannabis, then General Cannabis Lists, and download Cannabis License Applicants. It lists both applicants and issued licenses.²
3. Find the store by its trade name or city. The license type (Priv Desc) should say CANNABIS RETAILER.²
4. Check the Privilege Status column. Active (Issued) means the license is active. LCB says Pending (Issued) also counts as active, because a license shows that status while it is renewed or changed.¹
5. Check that the name and address match the store’s sign or website.

The list also includes licenses marked Closed (Permanent), Closed (Temporary) and Expired.² LCB warns that its lists may have some errors while it fixes a data problem.² Tribal stores are not on LCB’s list. To check one, or if you are still unsure, call LCB at 360-664-1600 .¹

You can also use LCB’s retailer map , which shows licensed stores.³ Stores with a medical endorsement are marked in green.⁴

2. What to look for at the store

• The license on display. Licensed stores must post their license where customers can see it. If you don’t see it, ask.¹
• An ID check. You must be 21 or older and show a valid government-issued ID. You don’t have to live in Washington.⁵
• Products behind the counter. Stores must keep cannabis behind a counter or other barrier.⁶

Delivery: licensed stores may not sell online or deliver.⁶ You can order ahead for pickup, but you pay at the store. A website that offers shipping or home delivery is likely not legal.¹

3. Check the label and keep the package

Licensed products carry the cannabis universal symbol on the front. Edibles and other products you swallow also carry the “Not for kids” symbol.⁹ Labels show total THC and CBD, the lot number, and warnings such as “Unlawful outside Washington State”.⁸

Some illegal sellers copy the universal symbol, so also think about where the product is sold.⁷ You can ask the store for the lab’s name and the test results. The store must give them to you.⁸

LCB recall notices list the product name, its ID number and the reason for the recall.¹⁰ Keep the package so you can match it. See LCB’s recall notices .

If something doesn’t look right

You can report a cannabis law problem, like a sale to someone under 21 or an unlicensed seller, with LCB’s online form. You can ask LCB not to release your name.¹²

Report a problem to LCB · How to report a problem