Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in Minnesota? This Is What the Law Says

Posted by Sam Ramirez March 7, 2025
Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in Minnesota? This Is What the Law Says
As of March 2025, vaping while driving is not explicitly illegal in Minnesota, but it can potentially lead to legal consequences depending on the circumstances. Here’s what you need to know about vaping and driving in Minnesota:

General Vaping Laws

Minnesota’s Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits vaping in many indoor public spaces, including:
  • State and local government buildings
  • Facilities of state colleges and universities
  • Public transportation
  • Places of employment
  • Health care facilities and clinics
  • Public schools
However, this act does not specifically address vaping while driving.

Vaping and Driving

While there is no law explicitly banning vaping while driving, there are several factors to consider: Impaired Driving If vaping impairs your ability to drive safely, you could be charged with driving while impaired (DWI). Minnesota law prohibits driving while intoxicated, which includes being under the influence of any substance that affects your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Distracted Driving Using a vaping device while driving could be considered distracted driving, which is illegal in Minnesota. If vaping causes you to take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road, you could be cited for distracted driving. THC and Driving It’s important to note that vaping THC (marijuana) while driving is illegal in Minnesota. Even though medical marijuana is legal in the state, law enforcement considers vaping THC while driving a safety risk.

Potential Consequences

If you’re caught vaping while driving and it’s determined to impair your driving or distract you:
  1. You could face fines and penalties associated with distracted driving or DWI charges.
  2. Your insurance rates may increase.
  3. You might face license suspension or revocation, depending on the severity of the offense and your driving history.

Legal Considerations

While vaping itself is not illegal while driving, it’s crucial to prioritize safe driving practices. Law enforcement officers have discretion in determining whether your vaping is affecting your ability to drive safely. While there’s no specific law against vaping and driving in Minnesota, it’s best to avoid this practice to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. If you choose to vape, it’s advisable to do so when your vehicle is parked and not in motion. Sources
  1. https://casaa.org/get-involved/state-locator/minnesota/
  2. https://www.legaldefensemn.com/vaping-thc-marijuana-driving-mn/
  3. https://www.fox9.com/news/where-you-can-and-cant-vape-under-minnesotas-new-clean-indoor-air-act
  4. https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/mciaa/publictransport.html
  5. https://www.house.mn.gov/sessiondaily/Story/13769