Can You Vape While Driving
Yes, it is legal to vape while driving in the UK—but only if it does not distract you or interfere with your ability to operate the vehicle safely. There’s no law that directly bans vaping behind the wheel, but that doesn’t mean it’s without risk. If your use of a vape is considered a distraction, or if it results in careless or dangerous driving, you can be fined, receive penalty points, or even lose your licence.
As with many road safety issues, it’s not just about what’s legal—it’s about what’s sensible.
When Vaping Becomes a Driving Offence
If you’re using a vape while driving and it leads to a loss of control, poor judgement, or distraction, police can issue penalties under existing road safety laws. You could be charged with driving without due care and attention or not being in proper control of the vehicle. This can result in a fine, three to nine penalty points, or a driving ban in more serious cases.
One of the biggest risks is visibility. Large vapour clouds, especially in colder weather or with the windows up, can fog up the cabin and obscure your view of the road. If a police officer believes that the vapour has impaired your ability to see clearly, they can stop you on the spot.
Vaping Around Children in the Car
While vaping itself is not banned in cars, it is illegal to smoke in a vehicle with anyone under the age of 18 present. This law does not currently apply to vaping, but the principle behind it still raises concerns. Police and child safety groups strongly discourage vaping in the car while children are present. If a child’s welfare is seen to be at risk, it could still lead to questions about your judgement or parental responsibility.
Many drivers treat vaping in the same way as smoking in this context: best avoided when children are in the vehicle.
Can You Use a Vape at Traffic Lights or in Queues?
Technically, yes—you can use a vape while stationary in traffic or at lights, but again, it comes down to whether it affects your awareness or control. If you’re distracted or slow to react because you’re focusing on your vape, you could still be pulled over for careless driving.
Keeping one hand on the wheel and full attention on the road is key. If using your vape takes your eyes off the road or causes you to fumble, it’s better to wait until you’ve parked safely.
Driving for Work or in a Company Vehicle
If you drive a company car or operate a vehicle as part of your job, the rules may be stricter. Many employers have policies in place that prohibit smoking and vaping while in company vehicles, especially if other staff or clients use the car. Vaping in a branded or shared vehicle could be against workplace rules, even if it’s not a driving offence.
Always check your company’s policy if you're unsure—breaking the rules could lead to disciplinary action even if there are no legal consequences.
Final Thoughts
You can legally vape while driving in the UK, but that doesn’t mean it’s always wise. If vaping affects your visibility, reaction time, or focus, it can lead to fines and penalty points. The safest approach is to use your vape when parked or pulled over safely, not while the vehicle is moving.