Washington Statewide Rule
Washington Tobacco and Vapor Sales Age 21
Key Facts
- Age Minimum
- 21 under RCW 26.28.080
- Effective Date
- January 1, 2020
- Product Coverage
- Tobacco and vapor
- ID Requirement
- For under-30 buyers
- Penalties
- RCW 70.155 civil penalties
Summary
Washington RCW 26.28.080 sets the minimum age for purchasing tobacco and vapor products at 21, aligning with federal Tobacco 21 standards statewide.
A person who sells or gives, or permits to be sold or given, to any person under the age of 21 years any cigar, cigarette, cigarette paper or wrapper, tobacco in any form, alternative nicotine product, or a vapor product is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
Full Breakdown
Under RCW 26.28.080, it is a gross misdemeanor to sell, give, or furnish tobacco products, vapor products, or tobacco substitutes to any person under 21 years of age. Retailers must verify the age of any purchaser appearing under 30 using a valid government-issued photo identification. The law applies to cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapor products, and accessories. Washington raised the minimum age from 18 to 21 effective January 1, 2020. Civil penalties under RCW 70.155 also apply to retailers who repeatedly sell to minors, with escalating fines and license suspension. Local jurisdictions may not lower the minimum age but may add complementary enforcement programs.
Violations & Penalties
Violations are gross misdemeanors with fines up to $5000 and jail time up to 364 days. RCW 70.155 imposes additional civil penalties of $200 to $1500 plus permit suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal age to buy tobacco in Washington?
Can Washington cities set a higher tobacco purchase age?
Sources
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