District of Columbia Statewide Rule
Washington DC bans tobacco sales under 21
Key Facts
- Minimum age
- 21 years
- ID check trigger
- Appears under 30
- Third violation
- License revoked
- Citation
- DC Code § 7-1721.02
- Enforcer
- DC Health / DLCP
Summary
In the District of Columbia, no one may sell, give, or furnish any tobacco product to a person under 21, or buy tobacco on their behalf. Retailers must card anyone appearing under 30.
No person shall sell, give, or furnish any tobacco product to, or purchase any tobacco product on behalf of, any person under 21 years of age.
Full Breakdown
DC Official Code § 7-1721.02(a) states plainly that no person shall sell, give, or furnish tobacco to anyone under 21. Merchants must post a sign warning that clerks will demand proof of age from any buyer who looks under 30. A tobacco license issued under § 47-2404 may be suspended for a first or second violation and shall be revoked for a third or subsequent violation. The prohibition covers cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and electronic smoking devices sold anywhere in the District.
Violations & Penalties
A retailer's DC tobacco license is suspended for a first or second sale to an under-21 buyer and revoked outright on a third violation; civil fines also apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal age to buy tobacco in DC?
When must a DC clerk check ID?
What happens to a store that sells to a minor?
Sources
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