If you live in Indiana or plan to pass through, you may wonder whether it’s illegal to vape and drive in the Hoosier State. The law in 2025 is evolving rapidly—especially with sweeping changes that come into effect beginning July 1, 2025. Here’s what you need to know about vaping while driving in Indiana, with a detailed look at the statutes, safety concerns, and penalties.
The Basics: Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive?
As of August 2025, Indiana does not have a specific law that outlaws vaping while driving a motor vehicle. This means there is no statewide traffic code provision that makes it a crime to use an e-cigarette or vape pen behind the wheel if you are of legal age and not otherwise breaking any laws.
However, a major change is on the horizon. The Indiana legislature passed House Bill 1218, which bans the sale, distribution, and possession of all vape and e-cigarette products statewide starting July 1, 2025. This sweeping ban will make it illegal to possess or use any vapor product, regardless of location—including in private vehicles—after the law goes into effect.
Timeline:
Currently (before July 1, 2025): Vaping while driving is not explicitly prohibited under Indiana law, though local ordinances may restrict vaping in certain situations or places.
After July 1, 2025: It will be illegal to buy, sell, possess, or use vape products anywhere in Indiana—including in your car.
Other Laws Affecting Vaping and Driving
Distracted Driving: Even though vaping itself isn’t directly banned (yet), drivers can still be cited under distracted driving laws if their use of a vape device interferes with their ability to operate the vehicle safely. Actions like taking your hands off the wheel for extended periods or blowing large clouds of vapor that obscure vision could be considered reckless and result in a ticket or worse.
Local Ordinances: Some Indiana cities have already banned vaping in public places and workplaces, and some extend these regulations to vehicles used for work, public transit, or business purposes.
Age Restrictions & Possession: Indiana sets 21 as the minimum age for purchasing, possessing, or using vape and e-cigarette products, and underage possession is classified as a legal infraction.
Penalties and Enforcement
After July 1, 2025: Penalties for possessing or using vaping products will fall in line with other tobacco and controlled substance infractions, including potential fines and confiscation. Retailers and individuals caught with vape products could face criminal charges and significant civil penalties.
Before July 1, 2025: While there’s no specific penalty for vaping and driving, using your vape in ways that cause distracted or reckless driving can lead to citations or affect the outcome of an accident.
Safety and Health Considerations
Authorities warn drivers that vaping while driving can:
Because of these risks, law enforcement may pull you over if your driving seems impaired by any activity—including vaping.
The Bottom Line
Currently, Indiana law does not explicitly ban vaping and driving, as long as you’re of legal age and not otherwise distracted.
Starting July 1, 2025, the sale, possession, and use of all vaping products becomes illegal in Indiana, meaning vaping while driving will also be prohibited—regardless of age or circumstance.
Even before the full ban, distraction or reckless behavior caused by vaping could still get you ticketed or worse.
If you use vape products in Indiana, now is the time to be aware of the impending changes, drive responsibly, and stay up-to-date with the law.
Sources
[1] https://ecigator.com/regulation/indiana-vaping-laws-guide/
[2] https://www.signs.com/blog/vaping-laws-for-all-50-states/
[3] https://mipod.com/blogs/mipodblog/indiana-vape-bans-overregulation-what-you-need-to-know
[4] https://www.vapingland.com/blogs/vape-news/is-indiana-banning-vapes
[5] https://indianaeconomicdigest.net/MobileContent/Default/Top-Story/Article/15-new-Indiana-laws-to-know-before-they-take-effect-Tuesday-July-1-2025/-3/5309/119332
