Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in California? Here's What the Law Says

In California, there is no specific law that outright bans vaping while driving for adults aged 21 and over. However, vaping behind the wheel can be considered a form of distracted driving if it interferes with your ability to operate the vehicle safely.

Police officers may issue citations if vaping causes you to lose focus, obstructs your vision (for example, by clouding the windshield), or if you are seen changing cartridges or refilling your device while driving.

Such actions could be penalized under existing distracted or reckless driving statutes, similar to how texting or using a phone while driving is treated.

Special Restrictions: Vaping with Children and Cannabis Products

There are important exceptions and stricter rules in certain situations:

Vaping with Children in the Car: California law prohibits both smoking and vaping in a vehicle when minors are present. Violating this law can result in a fine of up to $100.
Vaping Cannabis While Driving: It is illegal to vape cannabis products while operating a vehicle, regardless of your age. This falls under California’s strict laws against driving under the influence and consuming cannabis in a moving vehicle.

Vaping Laws in Public and Other Settings

Vaping is subject to the same restrictions as smoking in most public and indoor spaces in California. This includes bans in workplaces, public buildings, schools, and within 20 feet of entrances and exits. These rules extend to vaping in vehicles when parked in such restricted areas.

Guidelines for Responsible Vaping and Driving

While vaping itself is not specifically illegal while driving, authorities recommend the following to avoid legal trouble and ensure safety:

Avoid vaping if it could distract you or obscure your vision.
Never refill or change vape cartridges while driving.
Do not vape when children are present in the car.
Never vape cannabis products while driving.
When in doubt, pull over to vape safely.

Summary Table: Vaping and Driving in California

Situation	Legal Status for Adults (21+)	Notes
Vaping nicotine e-liquids while driving	Not specifically illegal	Can be cited for distracted/reckless driving
Vaping with minors in the car	Illegal	Fine up to $100
Vaping cannabis while driving	Illegal	Prohibited at all times
Vaping in public/indoor spaces	Restricted/Prohibited	Follows smoking bans

Vaping and driving is not explicitly illegal in California for adults, but it can lead to citations if it distracts you or endangers others.

Special prohibitions apply when minors or cannabis products are involved. To stay within the law and drive safely, avoid vaping in risky situations and always be aware of current regulations.

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