CBD Vape and Driving: What You Should Know

Is it legal? Is it safe?

6 March 2024 | Hannah Rubery

Are you curious about whether vaping CBD and driving mix? With CBD products growing in popularity, it’s no surprise this question is becoming more common. Many drivers wonder about the legality, safety, and effects of using CBD while driving.

This blog dives into everything you need to know about CBD vaping and driving to help keep you informed, safe, and within the law. From breaking down how CBD affects your body to understanding legal implications, we’ll cover it all. Whether you're a dedicated CBD user or just exploring, read on to get the full picture.

Understanding CBD: Effects and Implications

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD doesn’t create a "high." Instead, it’s often celebrated for its potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and promoting relaxation.

How Does CBD Affect Drivers?

CBD’s effects vary from person to person, depending on factors like dosage, method of consumption, and individual tolerance. When vaped, CBD is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, leading to faster effects compared to other methods like edibles or tinctures.

While CBD is not intoxicating, it may affect motor skills indirectly in some situations. For instance:
• Drowsiness: High doses of CBD may make certain individuals feel sleepy—something you’d want to avoid while driving.
• Mild Relaxation: While relaxation isn’t inherently dangerous, some may be more prone to distraction on the road.

CBD Won’t Impair You Like THC, But...

Here’s the key difference—it’s THC, not CBD, that impairs motor skills and judgement. CBD users won’t experience the same cognitive alterations, but it’s still essential to recognise your personal response to CBD before getting behind the wheel.

Legal Aspects of Vaping While Driving

Wondering where the law stands on vaping and driving? Here's what you need to know.

Is CBD Legal for Drivers?

Legally, CBD is generally permitted for use in the UK as long as it meets certain requirements:
• CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC.
• Products must be labelled and marketed responsibly without unverified health claims.

However, driving immediately after vaping CBD can create complications if you're pulled over. If police suspect impaired driving, roadside drug tests may detect THC if you've unknowingly consumed a product with slight THC traces. It’s why its important to make sure you use tested and compliant CBD products to avoid traces of THC.

Can You Vape While Driving?

Using a vape while operating a vehicle can potentially be considered a driving offence. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, anything that distracts your driving—whether it’s vaping, eating, or even adjusting the radio—can result in penalties or charges. Holding or using a vape may also fall under "not being in proper control of the vehicle."

To be on the safe side:
• Avoid vaping while driving altogether.
• Stick to vaping during rest breaks to steer clear of potential legal hassles.

Safety Considerations: CBD, Vaping, and Driving

Combining driving and CBD isn’t necessarily unsafe, but it does require some common sense. Follow these safety tips to make sure you're driving responsibly:

1. Know Your Dosage
Start with a low dose of CBD, especially if you’re new to it. Keep in mind that higher doses might cause mild lethargy.

2. Time Your Consumption
Avoid vaping CBD immediately before setting off. Take the time to gauge how the CBD is affecting you before you hit the road.

3. Buy From Trusted Sources
Only purchase CBD products from reputable suppliers who provide lab-tested results to confirm their CBD and THC content. This safeguards you against unintentionally consuming products with higher THC levels than advertised.

4. Check Your Reaction Before Driving
If you’re sleepy or feel slightly “off” after vaping CBD, wait until you feel fully alert before driving.

Debunking Myths: CBD and Driving

There’s a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to CBD use and driving. Here are some of the most common misconceptions debunked.

Myth 1: "CBD Gets You High, Just Like Marijuana"
Truth: CBD isn’t psychoactive like marijuana’s THC. While it offers calming effects, it doesn’t impair your ability to think clearly or stay in control.

Myth 2: "CBD Products Never Contain THC"
Truth: CBD products may legally contain up to 0.2% THC in the UK. Although this is minimal and won’t cause intoxication, trace amounts might still appear on a drug test. Always check product labels for complete transparency.

Myth 3: "Vaping CBD While Driving Is Legal Everywhere"
Truth: While CBD is legal in the UK, using a vape or even being seen holding one while driving could invite legal scrutiny if it’s deemed distracting.

Drive Responsibly with CBD

CBD and driving can coexist safely when approached responsibly. To recap: • Understand how CBD affects your body before deciding to drive. • Avoid vaping while physically operating your vehicle—it’s safer and less likely to cause legal complications. • Choose high-quality CBD products with clear labelling to avoid THC-related issues.

Ultimately, driving is a responsibility that requires your full focus. Done right, using CBD doesn’t need to disrupt this balance.