Can You Drive on CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is widely used in the UK for anxiety, sleep, pain, and general wellness. It’s available in oils, capsules, drinks, vapes and gummies. But a common question is: can you drive on CBD? The answer is yes, you can—if you’re not impaired and your CBD product meets legal requirements.

Here’s a breakdown of how CBD affects driving, what the law says, and how to use it safely if you’re behind the wheel.

Is It Legal to Drive on CBD in the UK?

Yes, it is legal to drive after taking CBD—as long as the product:

• Does not impair your ability to drive

• Contains less than 1mg of THC per container (in line with UK regulations)

CBD itself is not a controlled substance in the UK and won’t show up on a standard roadside drug test.

However, many CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. If there’s too much THC in your system, you could test positive and face drug-driving charges—even if you feel fine.

Does CBD Affect Driving?

CBD is non-intoxicating, so it doesn’t cause the “high” associated with THC. Most people don’t experience any impairment. In fact, some users report feeling calmer or more focused after taking CBD—especially if they were anxious or struggling with pain.

However, in some cases, CBD can cause:

• Drowsiness or fatigue, especially at higher doses

• Dizziness or light-headedness

• Reduced reaction time (in rare cases)

If you feel sleepy or unwell after taking CBD, you should not drive, even if the product is legal. The key legal test is whether you’re fit to drive safely.

Will CBD Show Up on a Drug Test?

CBD won’t trigger a positive drug test—but THC might. Police drug tests in the UK check for THC levels above 2 micrograms per litre of blood.

If your CBD product contains even a small amount of THC, and you use it regularly, it could build up in your system over time. This is especially true with:

• Full-spectrum CBD products

• Unregulated or imported products

• High daily doses of CBD oil or vapes

To be safe, always choose THC-free (CBD isolate or broad-spectrum) products from reputable UK suppliers with lab-tested certificates.

What Does the Law Say?

Under UK law, it is an offence to drive if:

1. You’re impaired by any drug (legal or illegal), and

2. You test above the legal threshold for certain controlled substances—including THC

So, even if you're using a legal CBD product, if it contains enough THC to show up on a drug test and your driving is impaired, you could be charged with drug driving.

Penalties include:

• A minimum 12-month driving ban

• An unlimited fine

• Up to 6 months in prison

• A criminal record

How to Drive Safely While Using CBD

If you want to use CBD and stay safe (and legal) behind the wheel:

• Start with a low dose, especially if you’re new to CBD

• Monitor how your body reacts—don’t drive if you feel drowsy or dizzy

• Choose THC-free products (CBD isolate or broad-spectrum)

• Buy only from UK-based, lab-tested suppliers

• Avoid combining CBD with alcohol, sedatives, or any medication that causes drowsiness

Final Word

Yes, you can drive after taking CBD in the UK—as long as you’re not impaired and your product meets legal standards. CBD itself is legal, non-intoxicating, and won’t show up on a drug test. But if your product contains THC—even in small amounts—it could lead to legal trouble if you’re stopped or tested.

To stay on the right side of the law, always check what’s in your CBD, go slow with new products, and never drive if you feel unwell or impaired. Responsibility is key—on and off the road.