Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Vapor Product Retail Licensing Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Key Facts

Licensing: RCW 70.345 governs vapor product retail
Licensing: State licensing required for retailers and distributors
Age Restriction: Sales to under-21 are prohibited
Packaging: Child-resistant packaging mandated
Age Restriction: Excise taxes apply under RCW 82.25

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Washington State Legislature

Summary

Washington RCW 70.345 requires licensing for vapor product retailers, distributors, and delivery sellers, with state Department of Revenue oversight and tax collection.

(1)(a) No person may engage in or conduct business as a retailer, distributor, or delivery seller in this state without a valid license issued under this chapter, except as otherwise provided by law. Any person who sells vapor products to ultimate consumers by a means other than delivery sales must obtain a retailer's license under this chapter. Any person who meets the definition of distributor under this chapter must obtain a distributor's license under this chapter. Any person who conducts delivery sales of vapor products must obtain a delivery sale license.

Source: Washington State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

RCW chapter 70.345 establishes Washington's regulatory framework for vapor products including e-cigarettes and e-liquids. Retailers, distributors, and delivery sellers must obtain a license from the Department of Revenue and comply with packaging, labeling, and child-resistant container requirements. The law restricts sales to minors, requires age verification, and prohibits sampling except in age-restricted vapor product retail outlets. Vapor products are subject to state excise taxes under RCW 82.25. Retailers must verify customer age via government-issued ID for in-person and online sales. Local jurisdictions may impose additional zoning rules but cannot conflict with state licensing requirements.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without a license carries fines up to $500 per violation. Sales to minors result in escalating penalties up to license suspension or revocation under RCW 70.345.090.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who must be licensed under RCW 70.345?

Retailers, distributors, and delivery sellers of vapor products must hold a Washington Department of Revenue license.

What is the legal age to buy vapor products in Washington?

Washington requires buyers to be 21 years or older, aligning with federal Tobacco 21 law and state RCW 26.28.080.

Sources

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