CBD and police control: the risks

Is CBD legal ?

Yes, CBD is legal in France and Europe, provided that it contains less than 0.3% THC, the molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects of hemp. This restriction ensures the absence of potentially harmful side effects in consumers. Moreover, THC is considered a narcotic product, i.e. a drug. Above 0.3%, THC is illegal, either for sale or consumption.

Inversely, CBD is not considered a psychotropic substance because it does not cause any euphoric effect or any form of addiction. Recently, the WHO (World Health Organization) removed CBD from the list of products to watch and even confirmed its therapeutic potential.

You can therefore be reassured and consume CBD with peace of mind, you risk nothing. That said, the issue of CBD and driving is still a source of debate.

Can saliva testing detect CBD ?

The saliva test is a test that detects the presence of drugs in the body. Since CBD is not a drug, it is not sought after or detectable in a saliva test. Note that the saliva test conducted by the police or gendarmerie can be performed randomly, during a simple roadside check, or in a mandatory manner, especially in case of an accident or violation of the highway code.

Although CBD cannot be searched for in a saliva test, it should be noted that THC can sometimes be detected. Saliva testing is used to look for 4 types of drugs, including THC, cocaine, heroin and amphetamine. CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, but this small amount is sometimes enough to get a positive saliva test for the drug.

During the test, the law enforcement officer collects particles from the mouth with a stick that will then be analyzed. If you have consumed CBD orally, there may be THC residue in your mouth. Generally, it is the flowers and the smoked resins which leave these residues. On the other hand, oils, creams, edibles and e-liquids are very unlikely to make you test positive for THC in your saliva.

As you can see, the risk is higher with smokable products. The risk increases if you used CBD just before driving and in large quantities. Regular users are also more likely to test positive for THC.

Can urine or blood testing be used to detect CBD ?

Note that in the event of a positive saliva test, police may request a urine or blood test to confirm the presence of the drug in your system, which can save your ass in the event of a "false positive." If you have consumed CBD containing less than 0.3% THC, this more thorough test will clear your name and avoid paying a fine or losing points on your driver's license.

On the other hand, if you have consumed cannabis containing THC, even several days before driving, the urine or blood test will be positive. This is because urine tests are more effective than saliva tests, and they can detect THC between 5 and 10 days before testing.

This is therefore proof that you must be very vigilant and never use drugs, even several days before driving, because you risk not only your life, but also the lives of others on the road.

Is it risky to use CBD before driving ?

In theory, you could say that consuming CBD is legal and that it's okay before driving. But in practice, the reality is quite different. Not only do you run the risk of testing positive for THC, but you're also not in optimal conditions to drive. While CBD is not a drug, it is important to remember that it promotes relaxation and stress relief. Driving doesn't seem like the ideal time to relax. On the contrary, your reflexes and concentration must be at their peak.

After all, it's common sense. If you want to consume CBD, do it outside of your driving hours. Consuming CBD in high doses right before driving is not a good idea. Consuming CBD at night, before sleeping or watching TV, has no impact.

What are the precautions to take with CBD ?

Taking CBD before driving is not prohibited, but it is not advised. So, take precautions and choose your CBD vendor carefully. Make sure their products are legal and always contain less than 0.3% THC.

Do not consume within 2 hours before driving. Avoid smoking CBD and favor healthy methods such as vaping, infusing or ingesting. By applying these few tips, you will be absolutely safe in the event of a police stop.