As of May 2025, Indiana does not have a law that specifically prohibits vaping while driving a motor vehicle. There are no statutes that make it illegal for an adult driver to use an e-cigarette or vape device behind the wheel, provided the driver is not otherwise distracted or impaired.
Distracted Driving and Hands-Free Law
Indiana’s hands-free driving law, enacted in 2020, makes it illegal to hold or use a mobile device (such as a smartphone or tablet) while driving. This law targets electronic devices that can cause distraction, but it does not mention vaping devices or e-cigarettes. The intent is to reduce distracted driving accidents, and violations can result in fines and points on your license.
While vaping is not explicitly included in the hands-free law, if vaping leads to distracted driving-such as taking your eyes off the road, using both hands, or otherwise losing focus-you could still be cited for distracted or reckless driving under general traffic safety laws. Police have the discretion to ticket drivers for any behavior that endangers themselves or others.
Upcoming Changes: Vape Product Ban
A significant change is coming: Indiana lawmakers have passed a bill (H.B. 1218) that will ban the sale and distribution of all e-liquids and vapor products starting July 1, 2025, regardless of federal compliance.
This means that after this date, it will be illegal to purchase or possess vape products in Indiana, making vaping in any context-including while driving-effectively illegal due to the prohibition of the products themselves.
Underage Vaping and Driving
It is illegal for individuals under 21 to purchase or possess vaping products in Indiana. If a driver under 21 is found vaping while driving, they could face penalties for underage possession, in addition to any distracted driving violations.
Summary Table
| Scenario | Legal Status (as of May 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult vaping while driving | Not specifically illegal | Could be cited if causing distraction or reckless driving |
| Vaping and driving after July 1, 2025 | Illegal | All vape products banned statewide |
| Underage vaping while driving | Illegal | Underage possession laws apply |
| Using phone/electronic device while driving | Illegal | Hands-free law applies |
Currently, vaping while driving is not specifically illegal in Indiana, but it could still lead to a citation if it causes distracted or reckless driving.
However, starting July 1, 2025, all vape products will be banned in Indiana, making vaping in any context-including in your car-illegal. Underage drivers are already prohibited from possessing vape products. As always, safe and attentive driving should be your priority.
Sources:
- https://1061evansville.com/new-2025-laws-indiana-kentucky/
- https://www.indianasenaterepublicans.com/new-laws-take-effect-july1
- https://www.publichealthlawcenter.org/resources/us-e-cigarette-regulations-50-state-review/in
- https://mipod.com/blogs/mipodblog/indiana-vape-bans-overregulation-what-you-need-to-know