How do you cash a check if you don't have a checking account?

go to the bank it was drawn from

By instead redeeming the check at the bank whose name is on the check. Rather than cash it at your bank, being that you don't have a bank, you cash it at their bank.

If you have a savings account you should be able to deposit it there. Otherwise, check-cashing places will do it for a fee.

The preferable option is to go to a bank and use the check to open a checking account.

You could also take it to a check cashing store or a payday loan place. Or the bank that is named on the check.

Bring your ID.

Open an account.

Go to a check cashing place but be aware that there will be fees involved. Or you could try the bank the check came from but they may also charge you a fee since you aren't an account holder.

Check cashing places

check cashing place. Or get a bank account.

The check CAN be cashed at the bank it is drawn against. There may be a fee for non-customers.
If the check is for a significant amount, you can most likely DEPOSIT it into the account you open with the check.