Vaping while driving in Arkansas is not explicitly illegal under state law. There are currently no statutes that specifically prohibit the use of e-cigarettes or vape pens by drivers in private vehicles, whether alone or with passengers. This means that, as of mid-2025, adults can legally vape while operating a car, provided they comply with all general traffic safety laws.
Key Legal Considerations
Although vaping while driving is legal, it must not interfere with your ability to operate the vehicle safely. Arkansas law, like that of most states, allows law enforcement to cite drivers for careless or distracted driving if vaping causes you to lose focus, obstructs your vision with vapor clouds, or otherwise impairs your control of the vehicle.
For example, if a police officer observes that vaping is causing you to swerve or lose visibility, you could be fined for careless driving, even though the act of vaping itself is not banned.
Vaping with Minors in the Car
Unlike traditional cigarettes, Arkansas law does not currently ban vaping in a vehicle when minors are present. State law specifically prohibits smoking tobacco in cars with children under the age of 14, but this restriction does not extend to e-cigarettes or vaping devices at this time.
However, health authorities strongly discourage vaping around children due to the potential health risks of secondhand aerosol exposure, even if it is not prohibited by law.
Age and Product Restrictions
Arkansas enforces a strict minimum age of 21 for the purchase, possession, and use of all vaping products, with limited exceptions for certain military personnel and those grandfathered in before 2020.
Additionally, as of 2025, new regulations require that only state-approved vaping products may be sold or possessed, with a ban on unlisted products set to take effect in 2026. These rules do not specifically address vaping while driving but are important for overall legal compliance.
Where Vaping Is Prohibited
Vaping is banned in many public spaces in Arkansas, including schools, healthcare facilities, and certain state properties, under the Clean Indoor Air Act and other regulations. However, these restrictions do not extend to private vehicles unless otherwise posted or if transporting foster children.
vaping while driving in Arkansas is legal for adults, provided it does not cause distraction or unsafe driving. There is no law against vaping in a car with minors, though it is discouraged by health officials.
Drivers should always ensure their actions do not violate general safety laws, and must comply with age and product restrictions for vaping devices. As with any activity behind the wheel, safety and attentiveness should remain the top priority.
Sources
[1] https://www.thekindpen.com/blog/vaping-while-driving-is-it-safe-is-it-legal/
[2] https://www.skevape.com/can-you-vape-while-driving
[3] https://ecigator.com/regulation/vaping-laws-in-arkansas/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbnZwT3Gub8
[5] https://www.publichealthlawcenter.org/resources/us-e-cigarette-regulations-50-state-review/ar
