As of May 2025, it is not specifically illegal to vape while driving in Colorado. There is no statewide law that outright bans the act of vaping (using an e-cigarette or similar device) behind the wheel for adults. However, several important legal and safety considerations apply.
Distracted Driving and the New Hands-Free Law (2025)
Colorado’s new hands-free law, effective January 1, 2025, prohibits drivers from holding or manually using a mobile electronic device while driving. This law targets cell phones and similar devices, not vaping devices. The intent is to reduce distracted driving crashes by keeping drivers’ hands on the wheel and attention on the road.
- Vaping devices are not classified as mobile electronic devices under this law, so vaping itself is not prohibited by the hands-free statute.
- Distracted driving laws still apply: If vaping distracts you (e.g., blowing large clouds that obscure your vision or handling your device in a way that interferes with safe driving), you could be cited for distracted or careless driving.
Vaping With Minors in the Car
It is illegal to vape in a car with minors under 18 present in Colorado. This law is similar to the state’s smoking ban with children in vehicles and applies whether the car is moving or parked.
Local and Public Usage Restrictions
- Public places: Vaping is banned in indoor public areas such as restaurants, bars, government buildings, and schools. City and county ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
- Driving through certain jurisdictions: Some localities may have stricter rules about vaping in vehicles, especially with passengers.
Impairment and Substance Use
- Cannabis: It is illegal to use cannabis (including vaping THC) in any form while driving or for passengers to use it in a vehicle. Doing so can result in DUI or DWAI charges.
- Nicotine Vaping: There are no impairment laws for nicotine vaping, but if vaping impairs your ability to drive safely, you could still face charges for impaired or careless driving.
Summary Table
| Action | Legal in Colorado? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vaping while driving (nicotine) | Yes, but with caution | Not banned, but can’t distract from safe driving |
| Vaping while driving with minors | No | Illegal to vape with anyone under 18 in the car |
| Vaping cannabis while driving | No | Illegal; can result in DUI/DWAI |
| Vaping in public indoor spaces | No | Prohibited in most public indoor areas |
Vaping while driving is not specifically illegal for adults in Colorado, but it is illegal to vape in a car with minors present. If vaping distracts you or impairs your driving, you can be cited under distracted or careless driving laws. Local ordinances and public usage restrictions may also apply, so always check city and county rules.
Sources:
- https://www.publichealthlawcenter.org/resources/us-e-cigarette-regulations-50-state-review/co
- https://www.codot.gov/news/2024/october/new-2025-law-bans-holding-phones-while-driving
- https://www.denverlaw.com/colorados-new-hands-free-law-what-drivers-need-to-know-in-2025/
- https://www.fresortech.com/vaping-laws-in-colorado