Online vape sales have additional age verification requirements under the Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking (PACT) Act, which was updated in 2021 to include vaping products. If you sell online, you need multiple layers of verification.
The 4 Layers of Online Age Verification
- Website-level verification (checkout): Third-party age verification service that cross-references the customer's name, address, and date of birth against public records (driver's license databases, credit bureaus, voter registration, etc.). If the automated check fails, the customer must upload a photo of their ID for manual review.
- Adult signature on delivery: All vape packages must be shipped via a carrier that requires an adult (21+) signature upon delivery. USPS cannot be used for vape shipments — you must use private carriers like UPS, FedEx, or regional carriers with adult signature services.
- PACT Act registration: Online sellers must register with the ATF and with each state's tobacco tax authority. You must also file monthly reports of sales into each state and collect/remit state excise taxes.
- State-specific requirements: Some states have additional requirements for online sales, such as state-level registration, additional reporting, or specific labeling requirements.
🚨 PACT Act Penalties Are Severe
Violating the PACT Act carries federal criminal penalties, including fines up to $100,000 per violation and prison time. It's not something to mess around with. If you sell online, make sure you're 100% compliant with PACT Act requirements.
For more on online sales compliance, see our state vape tax guide and our Shopify ban migration guide.
Popular Age Verification Services for Online Stores
| Service | Type | Best For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| AgeChecker.Net | Automated + manual review | WooCommerce, Shopify (before ban), general e-commerce | $0.10-0.50/verify |
| Veratad | Enterprise-grade automated | High-volume retailers, enterprise | Custom pricing |
| ID.me | Identity verification platform | High-security needs, government-grade | Custom pricing |
| AgeID | Age verification platform | UK/EU retailers expanding to US | Custom pricing |
