As of December 20, 2019, the federal age of sale for tobacco products is 21 with no exemption for military personnel.
Please visit the Food and Drug Administration website "This is Our Watch" for more information and to obtain free resources.
Get information from the California Tobacco Control Program.
Download our Tips for Tobacco Retailers.
Find out what you need to know about tobacco taxes and being licensed to sell tobacco at the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration's webpage.
The FDA regulates all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, cigars, and hookah tobacco. To help retailers better understand their responsibilities under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (Tobacco Control Act) and comply with the law, FDA provides webinars, training videos, and guidance documents. These resources help to educate retailers and their employees about the Tobacco Control Act and tobacco regulations. FDA also works with state regulators to enforce federal regulations to reduce the harm of tobacco. Educational materials and training are available on the FDA's website. Please note that the minimum age to purchase tobacco products in California is 21, not 18.