How long after smoking CBD can you drive?

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is an extract of Cannabis Sativa L. recognized for its many health benefits. However, its side effects are less widely communicated. Cannabidiol can notably impair alertness in certain circumstances. Driving a vehicle is not recommended after smoking CBD until the effects have completely disappeared. So, how long after smoking CBD can you drive? And is there a CBD screening test during roadside checks in France?

What are the effects of CBD on the human body?

Unlike THC, cannabidiol is a non-psychotropic component of hemp. The cannabinoid also does not cause addiction. Its qualities as well as the absence of health risks linked to its consumption are recognized by the WHO. Moreover, CBD is legal in several European countries including France. 

The substance possesses numerous beneficial properties for the body. Various dedicated scientific studies demonstrate the benefits of CBD for health. The cannabinoid would notably be a:

• painkiller: the CBD molecule acts on the receptors of the endocannabinoid system by inhibiting the perception of pain. The substance would relieve everyday ailments (migraines, muscle injuries, menstruation, etc) and even proves effective for soothing pain caused by certain chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis, multiple sclerosis, etc ;
• anti-inflammatory: cannabidiol would act in the body by considerably reducing the reactions of immune system cells in the face of external attacks to soothe inflammation. The product is notably recommended for treating inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema ;
• antiemetic: cannabidiol would possess regulatory actions on the digestive system. The product would notably soothe the contractions of the small intestine and exert antiemetic effects;
• anti-stress and anxiety: the cannabidiol molecule would stimulate the production of hormones responsible for good mood and well-being. The cannabinoid would help, thus, with the relaxation of the body and the mind as well as with the easing of psychological and physical tensions.

Furthermore, in-depth research proves that CBD would inhibit the development of tumors and cancers. The hemp extract would also promote growth, improve sleep and integrate an antiseptic potential.

The side effects of CBD

The effects of CBD vary considerably according to different factors, the most important of which are the quality of the product, the type of product and the metabolism of the consumer. To date, no official information precisely determines the exact effects of CBD according to the dose taken, the method of administration, the frequency of treatment and the metabolism of the consumer.

Thus, besides its benefits, CBD can also cause side effects on the body. Consuming CBD can notably cause fatigue, headaches, digestive disorders that can manifest through diarrhea or constipation. The undesirable consequences are generally linked to overdosing. A misuse of CBD or of a poor-quality product can also cause a state of drowsiness or even completely put the consumer to sleep. The latter then loses all concentration. In this case, it is strictly forbidden to get behind the wheel. Indeed, the lack of vigilance can expose the consumer and other road users to risks of serious accidents.

The list of the product's benefits and its undesirable side effects is not exhaustive. Indeed, research on the actions of CBD in the body continues.

How long do the effects of CBD last on the body?

The duration of the effects of CBD on the body varies considerably from 15 minutes to 12 hours, depending on various factors and notably the method of consumption or use, the quantity ingested and the metabolism of the user.

CBD is available in different forms in commerce. The most common products, intended for consumption, are oil, resin, leaves and CBD flowers.

The duration of the effects of CBD oil in the body

CBD oil can be ingested sublingually. This method of administration offers very rapid effects. The consumer generally feels the product's effects within 60 seconds following ingestion and they last between 4 and 12 hours.

You can, moreover, add the recommended amount of CBD oil for the treatment to your meals. Be careful, this product must not be subjected to a high temperature at the risk of altering its properties. Therefore pour the product into dishes at serving time, or even just before eating. In this case, cannabidiol is absorbed into the body via the digestive mucous membranes. The effects appear between half an hour to 2 hours after consumption. The effects of cannabidiol can be felt for up to 12 hours after ingestion.

How long do the effects of CBD resin, flowers and leaves last in the body?

CBD resin is ideally consumed by inhalation through vaporization. This method of use offers effects that can last for 24 hours.

CBD leaves and flowers are to be consumed as an infusion. The effects of the hot CBD drink last between 2 and 6 hours.

Furthermore, you can smoke CBD oil and CBD resin, by adding the recommended amount to your usual e-liquid. Smoking CBD allows you to enjoy the product's effects for a duration that can go up to 6 hours.

Thus, as a precaution and to ensure optimal safety, it is ideally advisable to wait 7 hours after smoking CBD before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle.

The indicated durations are approximate and can considerably vary from one person to another and according to the dose of CBD consumed.

Are there salivary screening tests for CBD while driving a car in France?

Since 29 December 2022, CBD extracts and CBD products are officially legalized in France. Thus, no law prohibits taking CBD before driving. The authorities therefore have no interest in performing a CBD screening test while driving a car. However, there are salivary, urinary and blood tests for detecting cannabidiol. These tools are essentially used for scientific research and not for roadside checks.

Furthermore, it can happen that a consumer tests positive on a salivary drug screening after consuming CBD. This is notably explained by the presence of a THC level above the legal threshold in the product. Indeed, drug tests detect euphoriant substances such as THC. These products are prohibited for consumption notably before getting behind the wheel of a car. As a reminder, CBD products with a THC level above 0,3 % can have psychoactive effects and are, therefore, considered drugs. French law penalizes a positive drug test while driving a car with a fine that can amount to up to 4 500 Euros. This punishment can be accompanied by a prison sentence and a deduction of 6 points on the driving license or even the suspension of the driving license.