Vaping in a car - is it illegal?

Drivers who are caught vaping behind the wheel could face fines or even a driving ban.

In this know how guide, we look at if it is illegal to use a vape when driving, as well as the risks associated with the habit.

Is it illegal to vape in a car?

In the UK, vaping while driving is not illegal – however, you may still face legal consequences if it causes you to lose control of the vehicle, distract you from the road, or obstruct your view.

There are no laws that ban e-cigarettes (or equivalents) when driving.

Driving without due care and attention is illegal under the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Can you be fined for vaping while driving?

Under the act, drivers who are viewed to be driving without due care could be hit with a £100 fine.

If the police conclude that the driver failed to properly control their vehicle while vaping, you will be fined.

However, if the distraction caused by vaping is deemed as significant enough, the police could issue fines up to £2,500 and from three to nine points on the driving licence.

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How many people vape while driving in the UK?

According to 2024 data from charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) around 11% of adults vape in the UK – equating to around 5.6 million potential drivers who vape in the UK.

Risks of vaping when driving

Drivers who are vaping should be aware of the health risks and dangers of the habit.

Although it is viewed as a better alternative to smoking, it can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

This can lead to cardiovascular problems, with increased heart rate and pressure – and in more serious cases – heart disease.

Vapes is highly addictive, which means that these problems are commonplace with smokers and those who vape.

Unlike cigarettes, vapes also contain many other harmful chemicals – which are toxic or carcinogenic when inhaled over time.

For younger drivers who regularly vape, nicotine can impair memory, attention spans, and impulsive control.

In rare cases, battery explosions or malfunctions have led to major incidents.