In Montana, you can legally work in a cannabis dispensary at
age 18, but only if you hold a valid marijuana worker permit issued by the Department of Revenue. This permit requires an application through the state’s
TransAction Portal (TAP), proof of annual training, a $50 fee, and a background disclosure. Employers must verify your permit before you ever clock in.
The rule is simple on paper: 18 is the minimum age. But the process behind it matters:
- Permit first, shift second: You cannot legally work a day without your worker permit in hand.
- Training: You’ll complete annual training covering state law, compliance, and even human-trafficking awareness (yes, it’s part of the package).
- Background checks: Certain criminal convictions can disqualify you, and new charges must be reported within 10 days. Honesty is key.
- Carry it always: Forgetting your card at home is like forgetting your ID at a bar; it can get you and your employer in hot water.
The Worker Permit: Your Golden Ticket
Think of the
marijuana worker permit as your backstage pass to Montana’s cannabis industry. No permit = no shift. Here’s what matters:
- Apply through the TransAction Portal (TAP) or at the Donovan Building in Helena.
- Pay the $50 fee, your application won’t even be reviewed until payment clears.
- Renewal? Every year. Lose your card? It’s a $10 replacement.
Training Requirements: More Than Just Weed 101
To keep your permit active, you need
annual training. It’s not just “how to weigh an eighth”, it covers:
- State cannabis laws and compliance.
- Human trafficking awareness (yes, Montana law requires this).
- Proper ID checks and sales procedures.
Pro tip: Save your proof of training somewhere safe. Employers must verify it, and the state can audit you.
Background Checks & Honesty
A past record doesn’t automatically bar you, but here’s the deal:
- Certain convictions can disqualify you.
- You must disclose past charges honestly; lying is worse than the record itself.
- Any new charges must be reported within 10 days.
Elevated hires real people with real stories. We care more about honesty and a willingness to learn than about perfection.
Employer Verification & First Shift Rules
Employers must verify your permit before your first shift. And once you’re on the job:
- Carry your card at all times, no exceptions.
- Your manager is responsible for checking it, but you’re responsible for keeping it on you.
Roles for 18–20 Year-Old Workers
Here’s the good news: you can start your cannabis career before you’re 21. While you can’t buy product until you hit that milestone, at 18 you can work in:
- Budroom support: Packaging, stocking, compliance checks.
- Reception/front desk: Verifying IDs, making recommendations, and greeting customers.
- Production roles: Trimming, labeling, and back-of-house support.
Permit Application Logistics (Step Smarter)
The
TransAction Portal (TAP) isn’t always user-friendly, but here’s how to make it painless:
- Gather your documents first: state ID, proof of training, $50 fee ready.
- Pay before you upload; the state won’t review until the payment clears.
- Need a replacement? $10 and a quick TAP submission gets it done.
Training Prep Playbook
Don’t wait until the last minute. Employers love when applicants already have training proof in hand. Knock it out early so you stand out.
- Print and save your completion certificate.
- Upload a copy to TAP during application.
- Bring a copy to your first interview; it shows you’re serious.
First-Shift Checklist
Forget the vague advice. Here’s the actual first-day checklist our managers care about:
- Permit in your pocket (not on your dresser at home).
- Proof of training in your onboarding docs.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn, trust us, that matters as much as compliance.
Next Steps & Resources
