CBD oil can have a range of beneficial effects when taken, but many are uncertain whether they can drive safely after taking it.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound that is derived from the cannabis plant and offers numerous potential health benefits. Some people use it to relieve anxiety, others use it to help with pain management. But can you drive on CBD oil?

The answer is maybe. It depends on several factors, including the amount of THC in the oil and your state’s regulations. Keep reading to learn more about how CBD oils could affect your driving ability.

CBD Products Contain High Levels of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Low Levels of THC

CBD is derived from the hemp plant. Although hemp is part of the family of cannabis plants, it is unlike marijuana because it contains high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of THC.

The fact that the hemp plant has a low THC concentration means that hemp-derived products, including CBD oil, do not produce psychoactive effects, unlike THC-heavy products like marijuana.

Generally speaking, CBD will not impair driving abilities in and of itself. However, there may be certain variations in product concentrations and ingredient combinations that can lead to different results for each user.

Make sure that any CBD products you purchase have a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that demonstrated verified third-party lab results. This ensures that what the CBD seller says on their label actually matches up with the actual contents of the product.

Furthermore, laws concerning CBD can vary across countries and states – for example, certain countries may regulate the amount of CBD one can take before driving. In other cases, a country’s regulations may penalize drivers who are found with trace amounts in their system regardless of impairment level.

For this reason, it is important to research your local legislation regarding CBD and driving before getting behind the wheel.

After understanding the applicable laws in your area, you can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD while remaining safe on the road.

CBD Oil Is Legal in Most States, But There Are Some Exceptions

CBD at the Federal and State Level

CBD has become an increasingly popular natural remedy for a variety of medical conditions, such as chronic pain.

In the United States, CBD used to be a federally controlled substance. However, as of 2018, any hemp-derived substance that contains no more than 0.3% THC is legal under federal law.

In addition, many states have legalized the purchase and consumption of CBD products even when they haven’t legalized other drugs that are high in THC, such as marijuana.

Local CBD Usage Restrictions

However, there are still some states where the use of CBD is restricted or outright prohibited. Because of this, users need to be particularly mindful of the laws in their area when it comes to CBD.

While CBD oils can help alleviate symptoms of various conditions such as anxiety and arthritis, driving can be impaired by even small amounts of the compound.

Since this is the case, using CBD without knowing its full effects on you before you get behind the wheel can be risky regardless of its legal status.

Additionally, police officers can pull drivers over if they can smell cannabis in the car or if they suspect that any passengers have been using illegal drugs.

To make sure you stay safe on the road, check your local laws to determine what kind of restrictions on CBD use may apply, and always keep up with initiatives regarding this issue so that you can stay informed on any changes to the law.

Those who require medication in order to drive safely should plan ahead and discuss options for alternative forms of treatment with their doctor before hitting the road with CBD in their system.

You Can Drive on CBD Oil, But It’s Important to Know the Possible Side Effects

As the use of CBD wellness products becomes increasingly popular, drivers need to know about the effects of CBD before getting behind the wheel.

Those who take CBD can generally feel confident when it comes to can you drive on CBD, but there can still be side effects that need to be taken into account.

Adverse CBD Reactions

Although not all CBD users will experience them, adverse reactions can include feeling drowsy, experiencing sluggishness, or seeing an overall change in perception and focus. For this reason, those taking CBD who drive should always keep safety as their number one priority and know what risks are associated with CBD use.

Additionally, drivers should be aware of their local DUI laws surrounding CBD and driving—laws can vary from state to state and in other countries.

Ultimately, if there is any lingering doubt about the potential impact of CBD on your ability to safely operate a vehicle, it may be wise to err on the side of caution and opt against using any type of CBD product before driving.

Some People Experience Side Effects After Taking CBD Oil

When it comes to using CBD oils, it is important to understand how potential side effects can manifest. Some, but not all, users report experiencing drowsiness and impaired motor skills, as well as slurred speech, after consuming CBD.

Potential CBD Side Effects

Some studies have linked these side effects to changes in blood pressure, and all of this can lead to impaired driving abilities.

As a result, some states have passed laws setting a legal limit for how much CBD can be in a person’s system before they can lawfully drive a car or truck.

That said, some individuals find that consuming CBD can actually increase alertness and help them focus on the task at hand.

Regardless, drivers who use CBD regularly should make sure that their consumption does not surpass their local state law limits to ensure safety on the roads for everyone.

What to Do If You Feel Side Effects from Taking CBD

Furthermore, if you notice any change in coordination or focus while driving, you should refrain from getting behind the wheel until you can no longer feel the effects of CBD oil.

Ultimately, understanding how one’s body reacts to CBD plays an important role in deciding whether or not a person can safely drive with its consumption.

The key takeaway is that those using CBD should always consult with an expert if they want to know more about potential impairments before getting behind the wheel.

Safety is paramount when considering operating any mode of transportation – including driving – on CBD products. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​​ ​​​​​

When in Doubt, Ask Your Doctor

When considering the use of CBD oil, it’s important to always consult with your doctor first. After all, CBD can interact with other medications and supplements you might already be taking.

What’s more, it can affect certain systems in your body, including your digestive system and your nervous system, so it can be unwise to take it without approval from a healthcare provider.

Talking to an Endocannabinoid Expert

Another critical aspect of using CBD is understanding its legal implications. For example, can you drive while taking CBD in your jurisdiction?

Unfortunately, since such laws can vary between countries and states, the best way to determine the law in your region is by consulting with a doctor who specializes in the study of endocannabinoids. This type of professional can provide insight into drive-safe protocols and how they apply to specific laws governing CBD and driving.

Additionally, they can also provide further information about how to safely consume CBD oils in general.

All of this goes to show that talking with a healthcare provider when considering any new medication (including CBD oil) is always a good idea.

Conclusion

CBD oil is a popular natural remedy that has been shown to provide relief for a variety of conditions. Because CBD contains only low levels of THC, CBD oils are legal in most states, with some exceptions.

It’s important to be aware of the possible side effects before taking CBD oil, including drowsiness, impaired motor skills, and changes in blood pressure.

It’s always best to consult with your doctor before taking any new medication, including CBD oil.

If you’re ready to try CBD safely, check out Restart CBD’s full line of all-natural, high-quality wellness products!