Tobacco Nicotine Licenses
License Requirements
You must have a tobacco license before you can sell any tobacco or nicotine products in Montana. If you have more than one location, you must have a separate license for each location.
You can register your business and apply for licenses through the eStop Business Licenses Service.
Legislative Updated (SB398)
Tobacco Products Retail and Alternative Nicotine or Vapor Retail license fees were updated per SB398, signed by the Governor on May 10, 2021.
Revenue Distribution
Revenue from all licenses goes to the state general fund. (16-11-120 through 16-11-125, MCA)
Tobacco and Nicotine License Categories
Overview
The Tobacco Products Wholesaler/Subjobber License allows you to operate as a wholesaler, subjobber, or vendor in Montana.
Fees and Application
- Annual Fee: $50
- You may apply for a new license or renew an existing license using the eStop Business Licenses Service.
License Types
Wholesaler
A wholesaler buys products to sell to subjobbers, vendors, wholesalers, and retailers.
Subjobber
A subjobber buys products from a wholesaler with the cigarette tax insignia already attached and sells the product to vendors and retailers.
Vendor
A vendor owns and operates 10 or more cigarette vending machines in Montana.
Overview
An importer sells, delivers, mails, or ships tobacco products into Montana to someone other than a licensed wholesaler, subjobber, retailer, or vendor.
Registration Requirements
Importers must register with the state. You may register as an importer using the eStop Business Licenses Service.
Fees
There is no fee for registering as an importer.
Overview
The Tobacco Product Retail License allows you to sell tobacco products directly to the consumer.
This license also applies to anyone owning fewer than 10 cigarette vending machines in Montana.
Fees and Application
- Annual Fee: $50
- You may apply for a new license or renew an existing license using the eStop Business Licenses Service.
Overview
You must have this license if you sell alternative nicotine products, including:
- E-cigarettes
- Vapor devices or mods
- Accessories
- Liquid or e-juice
You need an alternative nicotine license even if you already have a tobacco retailer license.
Fees and Application
- Annual Fee: $20
- You may apply for a new license or renew an existing license using the eStop Business Licenses Service.