Smoke shops have become increasingly popular across the United States, especially with the rise of vaping, CBD, and hemp products. If you’re someone who’s considering a job at a smoke shop, the first thing you’re probably wondering is: How old do you have to be to work there?
The answer depends on a mix of federal law, state law, and even the policies of the shop you want to work at. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about age requirements, legal differences between states, and tips to help you get hired.
Why Age Matters in Smoke Shops
Smoke shops sell products like tobacco, vapes, cigars, hemp-derived products, CBD, rolling papers, and sometimes even cannabis accessories (where legal). Because many of these products are age-restricted, the government takes youth access seriously.
Working at a place that sells tobacco or vape products isn’t just about being a cashier—it often means handling products that only adults are legally allowed to use or buy. So, it’s no surprise that employers and lawmakers want workers to meet certain age requirements.
Federal vs. State Law: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start by clearing up the difference between federal law and state law, because this is where a lot of confusion comes in.
Federal Law
In 2019, the federal government raised the legal age to buy tobacco and vaping products from 18 to 21 years. This is known as the “Tobacco 21” law. It applies nationwide. So, no matter what state you’re in, you must be 21 to legally purchase tobacco and vape products.
However, this law doesn’t directly say anything about how old someone has to be to work at a smoke shop. That’s where state law comes in.
State Law
Each state has its own rules about how old someone needs to be to work in a place that sells tobacco, vape, or smoking-related products. In some states, you can work in a smoke shop at 18, while in others, you must be 21.
Some states also allow younger employees to work there as long as they don’t sell or handle age-restricted products. Others require additional steps like background checks, certifications, or having a supervisor who is 21+ on duty.
Minimum Age to Work at a Smoke Shop: By State
Below is a general overview of age requirements by state. Keep in mind, these laws can change, and some cities or counties may have their own rules.
| State | Minimum Age to Work at Smoke Shop | Special Notes |
| Alabama | 18 | Must work under supervision of someone 21+ |
| Alaska | 21 | No exceptions |
| Arizona | 21 | Employers often require experience |
| Arkansas | 21 | Background checks may be required |
| California | 21 | Strong enforcement of age rules |
| Colorado | 21 | State ID required for employment |
| Florida | 18 | High school diploma often needed |
| Georgia | 21 | Retail training preferred |
| Idaho | 18 | Must show valid ID |
| Illinois | 18 | Some cities may have stricter rules |
| Indiana | 21 | Background check may be required |
| Iowa | 18 | Must have non-family references |
| Kansas | 18 | Most employers still prefer 21+ |
| Kentucky | 21 | |
| Louisiana | 18 | High school diploma may be required |
| Maine | 21 | Criminal background check |
| Maryland | 21 | Both state and federal background checks |
| Massachusetts | 21 | Detailed training required |
| Michigan | 21 | Diploma and training often required |
| Minnesota | 21 | Experience in vaping preferred |
| Mississippi | 21 | ID required |
| Missouri | 18 | No special state-level restriction |
| Montana | 18 | Background check may be needed |
| Nebraska | 21 | Diploma needed |
| Nevada | 21 | |
| New Hampshire | 21 | |
| New Jersey | 21 | Background checks often required |
| New Mexico | 21 | |
| New York | 21 | Diploma required |
| North Carolina | 21 | GED or diploma preferred |
| North Dakota | 18 | Clean background required |
| Ohio | 21 | Must pass background check |
| Oklahoma | 18 | |
| Oregon | 21 | Background check often required |
| Pennsylvania | 21 | |
| Rhode Island | 21 | Must pass background check |
| South Carolina | 21 | |
| South Dakota | 21 | No felony offenses allowed |
| Tennessee | 21 | |
| Texas | 18 | ID required |
| Utah | 21 | Background and criminal record check |
| Vermont | 21 | |
| Virginia | 21 | Background check needed |
| Washington | 21 | Must be resident for 6+ months |
| West Virginia | 21 | Background check required |
| Wisconsin | 21 | High school diploma usually required |
| Wyoming | 21 |
Important: Even if the state allows you to work at 18, individual employers may set their own policies. Always check with the shop directly.
Why Some States Allow 18-Year-Olds and Others Don’t
Some states still allow people aged 18 or older to work in smoke shops because:
- Federal law only restricts the purchase, not employment.
- State law might allow 18-year-olds to sell tobacco products.
- Some smoke shops may separate sales duties from stocking or cleaning roles.
However, most smoke shops want their employees to handle transactions, give product advice, and interact with customers—which usually includes handling age-restricted products. That’s why many states and employers stick to the 21+ rule.
What Else Might Be Required to Get Hired?
Age is just the first part. Here are some additional things a smoke shop might ask for:
High School Diploma or GED
Many shops require you to have finished high school or earned a GED, especially in states that allow hiring at 18.
Background Checks
Smoke shops may require a criminal background check, especially if they sell high-value items like glassware, CBD, or cannabis accessories.
Training or Certification
Some shops, especially in states with strict tobacco or cannabis laws, may require you to undergo vendor training or take courses on product knowledge and legal compliance.
Valid State ID
You’ll need to show proof of your age and identity. A driver’s license or state ID is usually required.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired at a Smoke Shop
If you’re legally allowed to work at a smoke shop in your state, here are some helpful tips to land the job:
Know the Products
Brush up on basic info about vapes, e-liquids, rolling papers, grinders, hookahs, and hemp/CBD products. Knowing what you’re talking about makes you stand out.
Be Friendly and Professional
Customer service is a big part of smoke shop work. Be polite, confident, and respectful during your interview.
Dress the Part
Smoke shops may be casual, but showing up neat and clean to your interview shows you take the job seriously.
Show That You’re Responsible
Since you’ll be handling restricted products and sometimes cash, shops are looking for dependable workers who can follow the rules.
Be Honest About Your Age
Never lie about how old you are. Employers will ask for proof, and being dishonest can hurt your chances of getting hired anywhere.
Can You Work at a Smoke Shop if You’re Under 18?
In almost all states, the answer is no. Due to the nature of the products sold, most smoke shops won’t even consider hiring someone under 18. Even if you’re only stocking shelves, you’re still around age-restricted items.
If you’re under 18 and looking for work, consider jobs in retail, food service, or other areas that don’t involve regulated products.
Final Thoughts
So, how old do you have to be to work at a smoke shop? In most states, the answer is 21. A few still allow you to work at 18, but it depends on the job, the shop’s policies, and whether you’ll be selling age-restricted products.
Make sure to check your state’s specific labor and tobacco laws before applying. Also, speak directly with the shop you’re interested in—sometimes they have extra rules that go beyond what the law says.
If you’re of age and interested in the industry, smoke shops can offer a relaxed yet professional environment to learn customer service skills and product knowledge. Just be prepared to follow all the rules and take your role seriously.