All you need to know about saliva testing and CBD

What is the purpose of the saliva test ?

The saliva test is used during roadside checks by the police or gendarmerie, in a determined or random manner. This salivary test can detect several drugs, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), present in cannabis. This test consists of inserting a stick in the driver's mouth to collect saliva and check for the presence of drugs. The salivary test allows to obtain an almost instantaneous result thanks to a chemical reagent and a change of color. It can detect 4 types of drugs:

• Cannabis (THC): it is detectable 4 to 8 after its consumption in case of occasional use, and 24 hours to 8 days in case of regular use.
• Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine): they are detectable 36 to 48 hours after use.
• Cocaine and crack cocaine: they are detectable 24 to 48 hours after use.
• Amphetamines: they are detectable for 40 to 60 hours after consumption.

If the result of the saliva test is positive, the driver incurs several penalties including 6 points of withdrawal on his license, or even suspension, up to 4,500 euros fine and 2 years in prison. Obviously, the penalties can be even heavier if the driver has caused an accident.

Is CBD legal ?

Yes, CBD (cannabidiol) is completely legal for sale and consumption, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Although these 2 cannabinoids come from the same plant, it is important to understand that they do not have the same effects and are not subject to the same legislation. THC is considered a narcotic and illegal product because it causes psychoactive and addictive effects potentially harmful to health.

For its part, CBD has been authorized for several years and present in many CBD shops. It is known for its relaxing properties on a mental and physical level. Considered the feel-good molecule, CBD is used to reduce stress, anxiety and chronic pain, while THC is used recreationally, to "get high."

This is why all CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC to be approved for sale and consumption. Therefore, THC is present in minute amounts in CBD products such as oils, flowers, and vaping liquids.

Does CBD contain detectable traces of THC in saliva testing ?

Even in very small amounts, THC leaves traces that can be detected in saliva testing. The more CBD you use, the greater the risk of a positive test. The mode of consumption is also a factor to take into account. For example, flowers consumed orally often leave fine particles in the mouth that are more easily detected on a saliva test.

It is difficult to say whether or not the test will be positive after consuming CBD. Most of the time the answer is no, but there are exceptions. If the THC level is well below 0.2%, there should be no risk. Sometimes, some products contain more and you can't tell. This is especially the case for products that come from Switzerland or Belgium where the legal THC levels are slightly higher than in France.

Note that there is also the time factor that plays into the test result. If you consumed CBD just before driving or use it regularly, the traces of THC may remain longer. Detection time varies depending on how often you use it, but also on your individual metabolism.

Can saliva testing be used to detect CBD consumption ?

The CBD molecule is not detectable by saliva testing. Law enforcement can subject you to a saliva test if there is any doubt about your drug use, but it is not CBD that is being looked for since it is not detectable. As a reminder, it is only used to detect drugs such as THC, cocaine, opiates and amphetamines.

However, you must cooperate and agree to the test, even if you have not used drugs. If you refuse to comply, you may be fined and have points removed from your driver's license. This test can be done during a simple traffic control, if you have committed an infraction or if you are involved in a traffic accident. If bodily injury or death results from an accident, testing for drugs and alcohol is mandatory.

All people on the road are subject to saliva testing: motorists, motorized two-wheeler drivers, and even cyclists.

Can you drive after taking CBD ?

Finally, it's a matter of common sense. Sure, CBD is legal and can be consumed at any time of the day, but if you consume CBD before driving, you're putting yourself at 2 risks. The first is to get checked, test positive for THC, pay a fine and lose points on your driver's license.

The second is to cause an accident because you are not at your maximum physical and mental capacity. While CBD does not provide any psychotropic effects, it does promote relaxation and unwinding. Unfortunately, being behind the wheel of your car is not the best time to relax. To drive safely, you need to stay alert and focused.

Reassure yourself, CBD use and driving are not totally incompatible. The key is to space your CBD intake as much as possible from your driving hours. Be responsible and avoid consuming CBD minutes or hours before driving, whether it's for your safety, or the safety of others.