What Happens If Your Tobacco License Is Revoked in California?

By F. Michael Ayaz

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Alcohol Beverage Compliance

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Last Modified on Sep 24, 2026

If you are a tobacco retailer in California, you probably already know how important proper licensing is. Whether it’s because of a clerical mistake or something more serious, having your license revoked has serious consequences. We can help you answer the question, “What happens if your tobacco license is revoked in California?”

The team at Blake & Ayaz has decades of combined experience in multiple areas of law, including tobacco licensing and business law. We can help you understand the next steps and how you can still work toward your business goals.

Tobacco License Penalties in California

California had 29,485 licensed tobacco retailers in 2023, with new locations opening and closing each year. Every retailer is required to have all necessary licenses and follow relevant laws. Penalties that these retailers might face for license violations depend on the type of license they have. You are most likely going to need a California Cigarette and Tobacco Products Retailer’s License. From the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).

Section 22980.3 of California’s Business and Professions Code details how and when these state licenses can be suspended or revoked. On top of any fines or other penalties, a license violation could result in the consequences listed below:

• First offense: A written notice and possibly a license suspension for up to 30 days.
• Repeat offense within four years: Complete revocation of the license.
• Sale during a suspension period: Complete revocation.

Appealing a Revoked Tobacco License

When your California tobacco license is revoked, you should receive a notice from the CDTFA notifying you that your license is being revoked. At this point, you do have the opportunity to respond.

You have the right to appeal a decision made by the CDTFA, but this isn’t always easy. California’s tobacco laws are complex and can be more complicated when criminal charges are also involved. You may wish to hire a tobacco license lawyer to help you prepare your appeal.

For all notices, you have 30 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal. This doesn’t give you much time to prepare your case, so it’s important to respond as quickly as you can. The sooner you start working on an appeal, the more time you are going to have to gather supporting documentation and learn more about California tobacco license laws.

If your appeal is successful, your license may be reinstated, and you can then return to selling tobacco products. Not all appeals are successful, though. You may still have options for your business if your license is revoked, and your chances of retaining your tobacco license can be increased when you hire a tobacco license lawyer to provide you with knowledgeable legal advice and guidance.

Reapplying for a Tobacco License

Under California law, you are allowed to reapply for a license once, but only after at least six months have passed from the date your license was revoked. Applying again doesn’t automatically mean your license is going to be granted, but this gives you the opportunity to try.

Most applications can be handled online. The CDTFA has multiple in-person offices throughout California, depending on your location. If you’re one of the 2,048 tobacco retailers in Orange County, for example, you may wish to go to the office at 1 MacArthur Place in Santa Ana.

While preparing to reapply for your tobacco license, there are steps you can take to improve your case:

• Avoid violations of any other licenses, such as alcoholic beverage licenses.
• Keep thorough business documentation.
• Do not sell any tobacco products without a valid license.
• Confirm that your state seller’s permit is still active and valid.
• Reapply for any relevant county or city licenses.

The CDTFA has the right to deny a license application, so you should understand that you may not be able to get your license again. Following these steps can help you show the board that you are committed to proper selling. You might also choose to work with a lawyer to help you put your case together.

Why Choose Us?

With nearly 100 years of combined experience, Blake & Ayaz help bring accessible, thorough legal services to our clients. We can walk you through why your license was revoked, what your options are now, and how to protect your business and your interests.

FAQs

Is a Suspended Tobacco License Always on Your Record?

In California, a suspended tobacco license can stay in your licensing history for at least a few years, depending on the agency that suspended your license. This can be used to ping repeat offenses, which might lead to more consequences, such as a full revocation of your license. If your license is suspended due to a criminal violation, that may remain on your criminal record as well.

What Is the New Tobacco Law in California?

The newest major tobacco law in California is the 2025 Assembly Bill 3218, which itself was an amendment to 2020’s Senate Bill 793. Combined, these bills set forth a ban on flavored tobacco products across the state. The newer bill specifies a list of permissible unflavored tobacco products. Products not on this list, especially flavored ones, may be illegal to sell under California law.

How Much Is a Tobacco License in California?

As of July 2026, a state tobacco license from CDTFA costs $450 per location, per year. This fee is the same whether you are applying for a license or renewing an existing license. Other licenses, such as ones from your local county or city, may have different fees. A lawyer can help you understand what fees might be required for your tobacco licenses.

Can You Still Sell Tobacco if Your License Is Revoked?

Without a valid license, you cannot legally sell tobacco products in California. You should cease selling these products when your license is revoked. However, you might be able to appeal to get your license back or wait six months and apply for a new license. Selling any tobacco products without a license could result in more penalties that make it harder for you to reinstate your license.

Hire a Tobacco License Lawyer With Experience in California Tobacco License Cases

Having your tobacco license revoked is a serious issue that can impact your business, potentially even forcing you to close. Blake & Ayaz tobacco license lawyers know the importance of responding quickly to situations like these. Waiting too long to address a revoked license could reduce your options. Take the first step and contact us to discuss your situation.