Can You Buy Vapes in Vending Machines?
Many wonder "Can you use a vending machine to purchase a vape?"
Yes, you can buy vapes in vending machines, but it depends on the location and state laws.
It may seem futuristic, but it’s already a reality. If you’re at the correct nightclub or bar, you likely see one of these vape vending machines glowing in a corner filled with disposable and pod-filled vapes.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can buy vapes vending machines. But, the laws regarding vending machines selling vapes vary from state to state in the USA.
There’s No Singular Law for Vapes Sold in Vending Machines
There is no blanket law in the U.S. that governs vending machines that sell vapes; instead each state and/or municipality creates its own law to govern the use and operation of vape vending machines.
How do Vape Vending Machines Work?
Vape vending machines are built to dispense only nicotine products, therefore they differ from your standard sales vending machine used to dispense soda and other items.
Common features of a vape vending machine include:
- Cashless payment systems
- Product slots that are secured and support various sizes of vapes
- Remote monitoring to determine inventory and sales
Some vending machines are simplistic designs and others may have very complex technology; it varies by the location.
Most Important: Where the Vending Machine is Located
This is where the laws vary the most
1. Age-restricted areas (majority of the time)
If a vape vending machine is located in an age-restricted (21+) area, age verification may not be required to sell vapes because the venue is responsible for enforcing age restrictions.
Examples of these types of establishments include:
- Bars
- Nightclubs
- Lounge that only services 21+
- Certain smoke or vape shops
The venue hosting the vape vending machine is responsible for compliance with any applicable laws.1. The machine doesn't always have to have its own ID check if there is already an ID check at the entrance.
2. If a machine is in a place where children might be able to reach it, then there are stricter laws.
If so, you will see:
• Scan devices that read a driver's license or state ID before letting someone purchase a product.
• Mobile applications that allow individuals to scan their driver's license before purchasing a product.
• Staff-operated systems that allow staff to grant access to the vending machine.
Each of these options serves the purpose of the vending machine reflecting the same actions as an actual cashier checking identification.
Why These Rules Exist:
The sale of all vapor products comes under the tobacco product regulation that is enforced by the FDA. The goal is threefold:
• Prevent underage consumers
• Ensuring accountability of the operator
• Controlling where and how consumers can get products
So the placement of the vape machines is just as important as the vending machine itself.
Difference Between States?
Here is where the fun begins.
Some states allow vape vending machines with little or no restrictions, in 21 or older environments. Other states require all vending machines to have additional protection even in those locations where there are age restrictions.
Some states severely restrict or prohibit vending machines for the sale of vapor products altogether.
As a result, what may be legal in one state, may not be legal in another state. Check with your local laws before purchasing or operating a vape vending machine.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Vape Vending Machines
Benefits:
• Fast and easy access to vapor products
• No employee interaction
• Ideal for high traffic and nighttime environments.
• Create residual income for an operator/owner.
Disadvantages:
• Limited selection of products
• Confusing regulations
• Not available in all states
• Potential fines if a vending machine operation is out of compliance
Will the Number of Vending Machines Continue to Grow?
Yes, the number of vending machines used for the sale of vapor products continues to grow in:
• Nightclubs
• Major entertainment districts
• Airports
• Private members only locations
As technology advances, more operators are using better technology in order to expand into increasingly difficult markets.
Bottom Line
Yes, you can buy vapes in vending machines, but only in certain locations and under specific laws.
If you want to buy vapor products from a vending machine, you can do so; however you need to be mindful of:
• State laws vary from state to state
• Location determines what restrictions exist
• Some form of age verification must occur to determine that no underage access has been allowed.
If you see a vending machine in a bar or nightclub, it may well be complying with applicable guidelines. If you see a vending machine in an unrestricted public place, then there may be a question as to whether or not the vending machine is operating in compliance with laws of that state.
