The Lone Star State is joining a number of other states across the country in raising the legal age to purchase smoking tobacco to 21. Senate Bill 21 is currently awaiting Governor Greg Abbott’s signature, and he is expected to sign the legislation.

The bill, which will make Texas the 14th state in the nation to raise the smoking age to 21, will bar stores from selling tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21, with the exception of military personnel. The bill is designed to reduce underage smoking, and reduce exposure to tobacco products among 18- to 20-year-olds, who are statistically most likely to develop nicotine addictions.

When signed by Governor Abbott, the legislation will make the process of obtaining cigarette licenses in Dallas, TX slightly more complex. Because of the new regulatory framework surrounding the way that retailers will be able to sell and distribute tobacco products, it’s important for prospective cigarette retailers to work with a trusted, knowledgeable permit service.

Here are some of the requirements that retailers will have to meet to obtain cigarette licenses in Dallas, TX following the passage of this new legislation:

• You must pay an application and renewal fee: Every tobacco retailer in Texas needs to pay an initial application fee as well as a renewal fee before their current license expires. The application fee costs $180 for a two-year license. If you’re planning to carry wholesale tobacco products, you’ll need to pay $300 for each annual license.
• Your license must be prominently displayed: Your Texas tobacco license needs to be prominently displayed at your retail location at all times. If it’s not, you might be fined for non-compliance. Repeat offenses may result in a suspension of your state tobacco license.
• Records must be maintained: Tobacco license holders are required by law to maintain sale records dating back at least four years. These records must be available for audit and review upon request by a state inspection official.
• Each location needs a separate license: If you own or manage multiple retail locations, you need to obtain a separate license for each locale at which you sell cigarettes. If you’re opening a new retail outlet, you’ll have to go through the entire licensing process over again, even if you already maintain a valid license at an existing storefront.
• You must verify identification: Tobacco license holders are required to verify the identification of anyone trying to purchase cigarettes. While current law states that cigarettes can be sold to people over the age of 18, this will soon change to 21.

Since 1965, LaBarba Permit Service has been helping retailers obtain cigarette licenses in Dallas, TX. We possess expertise navigating a wide range of state agencies. We’re committed to helping retailers of all sizes obtain the permits and licenses necessary to succeed in today’s competitive market. We can help with alcohol licensing, late-hour permits, lottery licenses, zoning and more. To learn more, please reach out to one of our highly qualified permit experts today.