New law requires tobacco retailers to be licensed starting January 1, 2022

Senate Bill 587 (2021) requires Oregon retailers who sell cigarettes, tobacco and/or inhalant delivery system products obtain a license to sell these products beginning January 1, 2022.

Do I need to apply for the state license?

If you sell cigarettes, tobacco products, or inhalant delivery systems at retail in Oregon you are required to be licensed by the state, city, or a local public health authority. If your business is in a jurisdiction that continues to administer their current retail tobacco license program, you will continue to renew your license with them.  If your jurisdiction does not administer a local tobacco license, or chooses to discontinue their licensure program, you will apply with the Department of Revenue. A reference table listing jurisdictions with local license programs is available on our tobacco retail licensing and tobacco page at www.oregon.gov/dor.

What information will I need to apply?

• The name, mailing address, and federal tax identifier of the business entity for which you are applying. The identifier may be a federal employer identification number (FEIN) or, if you are a sole proprietor, it may be a social security number (SSN).
• Premises address and premises name for each retail location for which a license will be requested.
• A valid email address.
• If you have multiple premises under the same FEIN, you may apply for multiple state licenses on one application.
• Licenses administered by local jurisdictions cannot be requested through this application.

How do I apply for the state license?

Applications will be available through Revenue Online starting December 1, 2021. From www.oregon.gov/dor, click on “Revenue Online.”  Scroll to the bottom right of the page and select “Apply for cigarette & tobacco license.”  To start the application, select “Apply for Tobacco Retail License.”  To ensure time for payment processing and mailing of the license, please complete and submit your application no later than five days prior to January 1, 2022.

How do I pay the licensing fees?

Payment is due when you submit your application. You will need a checking account and routing number, or a credit/debit card to submit an electronic payment.  If you are unable to make an electronic payment, a check may be sent to the department.  Write your identifier, business name, and reference “Retail License” on the memo line of your check. Online payments are recommended as the license cannot be issued until both the application is received, and fee is paid in full.

If you need assistance, or have additional questions, please contact us at 503-378-4988, or by email at questions.dor@oregon.gov

You can find additional information by visiting our tobacco retail licensing webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/businesses/Pages/Statewide-Tobacco-Retail-License.aspx