How Old Do You Have to Be to Smoke a Cigar?

The minimum age for purchasing and smoking tobacco products, including cigars, in the United States has undergone significant changes over the years. Prior to 2022, the legal age for buying tobacco products varied by state and territory, leading to a patchwork of regulations across the country. Some states set the minimum age at 18, while others opted for 19 or even 21.

However, a significant shift occurred on December 20, 2019. On this date, Congress passed and former President Donald Trump signed into law a federal mandate raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21. This law applies uniformly across all states and territories, eliminating the variations that previously existed.

As a result, regardless of where you are in the United States, you must now be at least 21 years old to legally purchase and smoke cigars. This change aims to reduce youth access to tobacco products and address public health concerns associated with early tobacco use.

Whether you're a cigar enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore the world of cigars, it's essential to be aware of these legal requirements to ensure compliance with federal law.

FAQ

Can I smoke a cigar at 18?
No. As of December 2019, federal law requires you to be 21 years old to purchase or smoke cigars and any other tobacco products in the United States.

How old do you have to be to buy a cigar?
You must be at least 21 years old to legally buy cigars anywhere in the U.S., regardless of the state.

Can you enter a cigar lounge at 18?
No. Most cigar lounges restrict entry to individuals 21 and older, since tobacco consumption is the primary activity in the space.

How old do you have to be to buy Black & Milds?
Black & Milds are considered tobacco products, just like Swishers or Backwoods, so the minimum legal age is 21, just like with cigars, cigarettes, and other tobacco-related items.