Can You Drive High in DC?
Washington DC has some of the most flexible cannabis possession laws in the country, thanks to Initiative 71. But when it comes to driving, the rules are extremely strict. Many people—especially visitors—assume that because cannabis is legal to possess, they can drive shortly after smoking or consuming edibles. This is a dangerous misconception.
So, can you drive high in DC? No. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Washington DC and can lead to serious criminal charges.
Driving High Is Strictly Illegal in Washington DC
Under DC law, driving while impaired by any drug, including cannabis, is a crime. Police do not need to prove that THC is above a certain level in your system. Any level of impairment—even mild—can lead to a DUI.
DC has two main laws that apply to cannabis and driving:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): If cannabis noticeably impairs your ability to drive.
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): A lower threshold where police believe your ability is impaired even slightly.
There is no “legal limit” like alcohol. If officers believe you’re impaired, they can arrest you.
How Police Determine Cannabis Impairment
Even though there’s no THC breathalyzer, police in DC use several tools to evaluate intoxication:
- Behavior and motor skills
- Slowed reaction time
- Erratic or cautious driving
- Bloodshot eyes
- The smell of cannabis in the vehicle
- Field sobriety tests
- Statements made during the stop
If an officer suspects you are under the influence of cannabis, they can perform a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation or request a blood test.
Penalties for Driving High in DC
Driving under the influence of cannabis carries penalties similar to alcohol DUIs:
- Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars
- License suspension
- Mandatory DUI classes
- Possible jail time
- Increased penalties for repeat offenders
- Vehicle impoundment
Even a first offense stays on your record and may affect employment, insurance, and your ability to travel internationally.
What About Being a Passenger?
It is legal to possess cannabis up to two ounces in a vehicle, but the cannabis cannot be open or actively being used. Open containers of weed, vapes, or smoking accessories can still raise suspicion of impaired driving.
Passengers can legally possess cannabis, but they cannot smoke or vape inside the vehicle. Doing so could lead to charges for both the passenger and the driver.
Can You Drive After Eating an Edible?
Many people underestimate edibles because they produce little or no smell. However, driving after consuming edibles is treated the same as smoking. Police only care about impairment—not the form of cannabis.
Remember: edibles can take 30 minutes to 3 hours to kick in. Misjudging timing is one of the leading causes of cannabis-impaired driving incidents.
Safe Alternatives to Driving High
If you plan to enjoy cannabis in DC, use a safe and legal transportation option:
- Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft)
- Taxis
- Metro and bus systems
- Walking in well-lit, safe areas
- Waiting until the effects fully fade before driving
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a DUI for driving high in DC?
Yes. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal, and police can arrest you even if they only observe mild impairment.
Is there a legal THC limit for driving in DC?
No. Unlike alcohol, DC has no THC limit. Any level of impairment can result in a DUI or DWI charge.
Can you smoke weed while sitting in a parked car?
No. A parked car is considered a public space, and smoking inside it is illegal. Police may also suspect intent to drive under the influence.
Can I have weed in my car in DC?
Yes, as long as it’s under two ounces and not being consumed. It must not be open, burning, or actively in use.
Final Thoughts
So, can you drive high in Washington DC? Absolutely not. While cannabis possession is legal, any level of impaired driving is considered a criminal offense. The safest plan is to enjoy your cannabis responsibly in a private, legal space and rely on rideshare or public transit if you’re under the influence.
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