Let's talk about what actually counts as proof you're allowed to sell.

CDTFA seller's permit – This is your baseline. If you sell tangible goods in California, you need this permit. It's free to apply, but you'll need it to collect and remit sales tax. Without it, you're operating outside the law.

Local business license – Depending on where you operate, you may need a city or county license. Some have specific categories for tobacco or vape retail. Search your city's official website for 'business license' and see if there's a tobacco endorsement.

Zoning confirmation – Even if you have a license, your business location might not be zoned for retail sales. Check with the planning department. Also, some areas have distance requirements from schools or parks—that can affect both physical stores and delivery services.

FDA registration for products – This is about the products, not the retailer. But if you're importing or manufacturing, you need to ensure the products are FDA-registered. You can verify this on the FDA's website.

These are the core trust signals. They're not optional if you want to stay legal.