Vaping while driving is not explicitly illegal in Colorado, but there are important restrictions and safety rules every driver must follow.
What Colorado Law Says About Vaping and Driving
No Statewide Ban on Vaping While Driving: There is no specific Colorado state law that outright prohibits vaping while driving a private vehicle. Technically, adults can vape while driving as long as it does not interfere with safe vehicle operation.
Distracted Driving Laws Apply: If vaping distracts you from driving—such as handling the device excessively or creating large vapor clouds that obscure your view—it can be considered distracted or careless driving. This can result in fines or other penalties under Colorado’s distracted driving laws.
Visibility Matters: Creating excessive vapor that impairs your vision or the vision of others on the road can lead to citations for unsafe driving or reckless endangerment.
Vaping With Minors in the Car Is Illegal: Colorado law prohibits vaping (and smoking) in vehicles when minors under 18 are present. Violating this can result in fines and legal consequences.
Local Ordinances May Be Stricter: Some Colorado cities and counties have enacted their own, stricter rules regarding vaping, including in vehicles. Always check local regulations, especially in places like Boulder, Denver, and Aspen.
Substance Restrictions: Using illegal substances (such as THC if not legally possessed or used) in a vape device while driving is strictly prohibited and can result in DUI charges.
Table
| Situation | Is It Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vaping while driving (no minors present) | Yes, but not recommended | Must not distract or impair driving |
| Vaping with minors in the car | No | Illegal; subject to fines |
| Excessive vapor blocking vision | No | Can be cited for careless or reckless driving |
| Vaping with illegal substances | No | Treated as DUI offense |
| Local city/county bans | Varies | Some areas have stricter rules; check local ordinances |
Key Takeaways
It is not illegal to vape and drive in Colorado if you are over 21 and there are no minors in the vehicle, but you must avoid anything that could be considered distracted or unsafe driving.
Never vape with minors in the car—this is against state law and can result in penalties.
Avoid producing large vapor clouds that could block your vision or the vision of others, as this could lead to fines for careless driving.
Always check local regulations for stricter rules in your city or county.
Vaping and driving is not specifically banned in Colorado, but safety laws, distracted driving rules, and protections for minors still apply. Drive responsibly and stay aware of local ordinances to avoid legal trouble.
Sources
[1] https://www.fresortech.com/vaping-laws-in-colorado
[2] https://ecigator.com/regulation/vaping-laws-in-colorado/
[3] https://tmbnotes.co/blog/are-you-allowed-to-vape-while-driving
[4] https://www.coloradolaw.net/practice-area/auto-accidents/dangers-distracted-driving/
[5] https://amtauto.co.uk/news/vaping-and-driving-clouded-views
