Drive clean, vape responsibly Legislative changes as of April 1, 2025 – what this means for you
Starting April 1, 2025, Switzerland is implementing a groundbreaking new road regulation:
❌ Driving will be prohibited with an exhaled nicotine level above 6 mg/L.
From now on, all vapers will be required to use a device to measure their exhaled nicotine level before getting behind the wheel.
To support this new regulation, Freevap is innovating with the exclusive launch of NicoTest™ – the very first nicotine breath test, offered with your order!
Drive with peace of mind and full compliance: check your exhaled nicotine level before hitting the road.
1- why this new law?
Preventing risky behavior behind the wheel
According to INAR – the National Institute for Respiratory Analysis, a high level of nicotine in the bloodstream could lead to reduced concentration and nervous movements, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
Fighting vaping while driving
Vaping behind the wheel is on the rise. To regulate this practice, a measure to monitor the level of exhaled nicotine has been introduced as a preventive step.
According to INAR, 1 in 4 vapers exceeds the legal nicotine level for safe driving.
2- Official Operation of the NicoTest: the first breath-based nicotine test in Switzerland
Device approved by OVNS (Swiss Vape & Nicotine Observatory)
Insert the VapStrip into the NicoTest™
(a nicotine-reactive strip inspired by oral swab test technology)- Blow into the provided mouthpiece for 15 seconds.
The exhalation must be steady and without interruption.
- The strip changes color based on the detected nicotine level.
Result analysis:
🟢 GREEN : Within legal limits – driving allowed
🟠 ORANGE : Moderate level – 15-minute wait recommended
🔴 RED : Nicotine overdose – strictly no driving for 1 hour
➡️ If you test positive, stay calm, drink water… and go for a walk.
The Freevap NicoTest kit includes :
1reusable case
3 VapStrips
1 small velcro pouch to hang in your car
1 guide “Drive and vape responsibly”
3- Penalties for failing the NicoTest
- Immediate confiscation of your electronic cigarette
- Mandatory training and a 2-day awareness course
- Mandatory installation of a security device connected to your vehicle: it will not start unless the nicotine level is at 0mg/ml
- Placement of a “I am a nicotine hazard” sticker on your car
4 - FAQ : Everything You Need to Know About the Nicotest
Yes, since April 1, 2025, all vapers must check their exhaled nicotine level before getting behind the wheel.
This is a nationwide measure supported by the FSER (Swiss Foundation for the Study of Nicotine Residues).
Insert the VapStrip™, blow for 15 seconds, then wait for the color analysis.
Depending on the color displayed (green, orange, or red), you may or may not be allowed to drive.
The device itself is reusable, but the VapStrips™ are single-use only. For safety reasons, we recommend ordering a refill pack (currently unavailable, but we're working on it).
You can try. But the new versions of the NicoTest™ also detect the emotional traces left by an overly intense vape.
The test is not yet required, but it is recommended.
