Vaping while driving in Idaho is not specifically prohibited for adults under most circumstances. However, there are important exceptions and related laws you must know to avoid legal trouble.
Key Points
1. General Legality for Adults
No Statewide Ban for Adults: There is no Idaho law that makes it outright illegal for an adult to vape while driving, provided no other laws are being broken and no minors are present in the vehicle.
Distraction Still Matters: If vaping distracts you from driving, you could be cited under Idaho’s distracted driving laws, which prohibit activities that take your attention off the road (such as using electronic devices, eating, or grooming).
2. Vaping With Minors in the Vehicle
Illegal With Minors Present: Idaho law makes it illegal for anyone—driver or passenger—to smoke or vape in a motor vehicle if a person under 18 is present.
This law is enforced as a secondary offense—meaning you can only be cited for it if you are pulled over for another violation.
The penalty is a fine (typically $50–$75), but it does not add points to your license or count as a moving violation.
Purpose: The law aims to protect minors from secondhand smoke and vapor exposure.
3. Distracted Driving Laws
Hands-Free Requirement: Idaho law bans the use of handheld electronic devices while driving. While this specifically targets cell phones, any activity that distracts you—including vaping—can result in a citation if it impairs your ability to drive safely.
Penalties: Fines for distracted driving start at $75 and increase for repeat offenses
4. Age Restrictions
Minimum Age for Vaping: It is illegal for anyone under 21 to purchase, possess, or use vaping products in Idaho.
Vaping and Driving in Idaho
| Situation | Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult vaping while driving (no minors) | Yes | Legal unless it causes distraction |
| Vaping with minors (under 18) in vehicle | No | Illegal, secondary offense, fine applies |
| Vaping by drivers under 21 | No | Illegal to possess or use vaping products |
| Vaping causing distracted driving | No | Can be cited under distracted driving laws |
Takeaways
Vaping and driving is generally legal for adults in Idaho, unless it distracts you or a minor is present in the vehicle.
Never vape while driving with anyone under 18 in your car—this is illegal and subject to fines.
Distracted driving laws apply if vaping impairs your attention or control of the vehicle.
It is illegal for anyone under 21 to use or possess vaping products.
Always check for local ordinances, as some cities or counties may have stricter rules. When in doubt, prioritize safety and avoid any activity that could distract you while driving.
Sources
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/02/is-it-illegal-to-vape-and-drive-in-idaho-heres-what-the-law-says/
[2] https://www.jacqueslawoffice.com/blog/the-new-texting-ban/
[3] https://autoinjuryidaho.com/distracted-driving-laws-in-idaho-what-you-need-to-know/
[4] https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1599394
[5] https://legislature.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sessioninfo/2019/legislation/H0280.pdf
