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Start Here: General E-Cigarette Questions

Common E-Cigarette Questions

Other General Information

Where can I use e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes don’t burn tobacco, but their aerosol is not harmless: the CDC says it can contain harmful and potentially harmful substances.

FDA regulates e-cigarettes as tobacco products, and many states and cities include vaping in their smoke-free laws. Check local rules before you vape in public, and follow our “News & Discussion Blog” for news and updates.

* For the latest rules and regulations in the United States – CLICK HERE

Do I have to be 21 or older?

Yes. Under the federal Tobacco 21 law, signed on December 20, 2019, it is illegal for any retailer to sell e-cigarettes or any other tobacco product to anyone under 21, in every state.

Since September 30, 2024, FDA rules require retailers to check photo ID for anyone under 30.

We removed our old 2014 list of state age laws because the federal 21+ minimum now applies nationwide. Some states and cities add their own rules on top of it.

* Updated: October 2026

Can e-cigarettes be shipped by mail?

Not through the U.S. Postal Service. Since October 21, 2021, USPS treats e-cigarettes, e-liquids and their parts as nonmailable, with only narrow exceptions such as some business-to-business shipments.

Which e-cigarettes can be sold legally in the U.S.?

Only products FDA has authorized. FDA keeps a list of authorized e-cigarettes and says these are the only e-cigarettes that may be lawfully sold in the United States.

How long will the battery last?

Battery life varies widely by device and by how much you vape. Small cigarette-style batteries run down fastest, while larger devices last longer between charges. Check the maker’s rating for your device.

Most rechargeable e-cigs use lithium-ion batteries, which slowly lose capacity with each charge. Replace any battery that is damaged, swollen or wet, and follow FDA’s tips to avoid vape battery fires or explosions.

How long does it take to recharge the battery?

Charge times vary by device. Use only the charger that came with your device, not a phone or tablet charger, and don’t leave it charging unattended.

What’s the difference between automatic and manual batteries?

Most cigarette-style e-cigs use automatic batteries. This is the easiest way to use your electronic cigarette, just take a puff and a computer chip will activate the atomizer and produce the vapor. Although the vapor production is sufficient for some users, most automatic batteries will require you to take a long ‘priming puff’ (or two) to build a stronger, thicker vapor. Afterwards, all subsequent puffs will remain strong and you can continue using your e-cig as normal.

A manual battery gives you more control by allowing you to heat the liquid prior to inhaling. Normally, it’s as simple as pressing a small button on top of the battery, quickly producing a thicker, more satisfying vapor. Generally, manual batteries are ideal for heavy smokers or serious vapers looking for the strongest vapor production. If you can deal with a few priming puffs or aren’t overly concerned about super strong vapor, then an automatic battery should be fine.

How long can I expect a cartridge to last?

How long a cartridge lasts depends on its size and your vaping habits. When it runs out, replace it with a fresh cartridge, or refill it with e-liquid only if it is designed to be refilled. As you get into more advanced devices with tanks and ‘clearomizers’, each refill will last significantly longer.

What’s the difference between ‘PG’ and ‘VG’ based liquids?

If you’re shopping for e-cigs, you’ve probably read about the different liquids being used by each company. E-liquids are generally made up of four ingredients: water, nicotine, flavoring, and VG (vegetable glycerin) or PG (propylene glycol). Some use VG or PG, while others use a combination.

Vegetable glycerin (VG) is a thick liquid made from plant oils and is widely used in food. It gives your e-cig a slightly sweet flavor and creates extremely large amounts of vapor. It also produces a softer, smoother throat hit that users may or may not prefer.

Propylene glycol (PG), by comparison, is very thin and chemically created in a lab. It’s used in many foods and consumer products, but some people report throat irritation or allergic-type reactions. Known to produce a great throat hit, PG is preferred by some users because of it’s stronger feeling and richer flavor.

Being safe to eat is not the same as being safe to inhale. The CDC notes that e-cigarette aerosol can contain harmful substances, and most e-liquids contain nicotine, which is highly addictive.

Because each base has slightly different qualities, the right one for you will depend on your personal preference. Some people prefer VG-based liquids, while others prefer PG. Most companies use a combination of both to appeal to the broadest range of customers.

Learn more about choosing the best e-liquid →

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