The retailer notification scheme has ceased, and the Retailer Identification Number (RIN) is no longer active. Retailers and wholesalers must apply for a tobacco licence to continue trading in NSW.
NSW has introduced a new tobacco licensing scheme. This scheme commenced 1 July 2025. Tobacco retailers and wholesalers require a licence to sell tobacco and non-tobacco smoking products in NSW.
From 1 July 2025, the retailer identification number (RIN) system will no longer be operating, and retailers must apply for a tobacco licence to continue trading.
The tobacco licensing scheme covers tobacco and non-tobacco smoking products.
In NSW, vaping goods can only be purchased from pharmacies for therapeutic use. Pharmacies do not need a tobacco licence to sell vaping products. It is illegal for all other retailers such as tobacconists, supermarkets, and convenience stores to sell any type of vaping good, regardless of its nicotine content. Significant penalties apply.
Retailers and wholesalers can apply for a tobacco licence. We encourage you to apply now.
Applicants will need:
After you apply for a licence, you will get an email notification that your application has been received and is being considered. We encourage you to check your spam or junk folder if you do not receive this email.
For more information about applying for a tobacco licence, visit Application Requirements.
All retailers and wholesalers selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products in NSW need a licence.
A separate licence is needed for each premises where tobacco is sold. Online tobacco retailers will require a retail licence for each online store.
For example:
Liquor licensed hospitality venues that sell tobacco, either over the counter or via a vending machine, will require a tobacco licence. A liquor licensed premises only requires one retail licence per premises to sell tobacco over the counter, via vending machine, or both.
A vending machine supplier is not required to hold a tobacco retail licence. A vending machine supplier does, however, require a wholesale licence if they supply vending machines with tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products inside or alongside the machine.
A fee of $1,100 applies for each licence. All retailers and wholesalers will need to renew their licence annually.
Retailers and wholesalers who hold a tobacco licence must comply with tobacco retailing laws in NSW. A copy of the licence must be displayed at the point of sale. For more information on tobacco retailing laws, visit Tobacco retailing laws in NSW.
New penalties have been introduced for selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products without a valid licence. The maximum penalties are:
Penalties for a range of other tobacco retailing offences have also been significantly increased to reflect the seriousness of these offences. For more information on tobacco retailing penalties please see Penalties and enforcement.
Call the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412 if you have questions about the licensing scheme or if you need assistance with the application process.
The tobacco licensing scheme will: