As of April 2025, there is no specific North Carolina state law that makes it illegal for adults to vape while driving a personal vehicle. The state’s current vaping regulations focus primarily on:
- Restricting sales and distribution of vape products (especially to minors)
- Banning vaping in certain public places and government buildings
- Requiring certification for vape products sold in the state
Where Vaping Is Explicitly Prohibited
North Carolina law and local ordinances do prohibit vaping in:
- Childcare centers, schools, and at school events
- Jails and prisons
- Many public buildings and government vehicles
- Certain county and municipal properties (such as in New Hanover County)
However, these bans do not extend to private vehicles. The New Hanover County ordinance, for example, specifically states it does not apply to personal vehicles or private property.
Age Restrictions and Product Regulations
- It is illegal for anyone under 18 to purchase, possess, or use vaping products in North Carolina.
- New regulations require vape products to be certified and listed in a state directory by May 2025, but these rules target manufacturers and retailers, not individual users.
Exceptions and Caution
- Minors: It is illegal for minors to vape anywhere, including in a vehicle.
- School Property: Vaping in a vehicle parked on school property is illegal.
- Distracted Driving: While vaping itself is not banned, if vaping distracts you or impairs your ability to drive safely, you could be cited under general distracted or careless driving laws.
Summary Table: Vaping and Driving in North Carolina
| Situation | Is It Illegal? |
|---|---|
| Adult vaping in private car | No, not specifically prohibited |
| Minor vaping in car | Yes, illegal statewide |
| Vaping in car on school property | Yes, illegal |
| Vaping in public/government vehicle | Yes, illegal |
| Vaping while distracted driving | Not specific, but can be cited |
It is not illegal for adults to vape and drive in North Carolina, as long as you are not on school or other prohibited property, and you are not a minor. However, using a vape while driving could still lead to a citation if it causes you to drive unsafely. Always check for local ordinances and drive responsibly.
Sources:
- https://www.wunc.org/politics/2024-07-04/north-carolina-vaping-opioid-regulations-roy-cooper
- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2024/07/03/cooper-signs-bills-on-vaping-regulations–dmv-changes-
- https://cspdailynews.com/tobacco/north-carolina-gov-cooper-signs-vaping-registry-bill
- https://ncdoj.gov/e-cigarettes/
- https://health.nhcgov.com/685/Smoking-Vaping-Ordinance