With the legalization of certain natural psychedelic substances in Colorado and the recent opening of licensed healing centers, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has launched a public education campaign warning residents about the dangers and legal consequences of driving under the influence of these substances.
While psilocybin and other natural medicines such as dimethyltryptamine (DMT), ibogaine, and mescaline (excluding peyote) are now permitted for use at home or at state-licensed facilities, operating a vehicle after consuming any impairing substance remains illegal. CDOT’s campaign aims to reduce impaired-driving incidents by encouraging people to arrange sober transportation before using psychedelics or regulated natural medicine.
The department notes that effects from these substances—including slowed reaction time, hallucinations, disordered thinking, and loss of muscle control—can significantly hinder safe driving. These effects may persist even after users believe their “trip” has ended.
“With more people exploring natural medicines in Colorado, it’s important to understand how these substances can impact driving performance and the ability to react in critical situations,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety. “Even if you feel fine, psychedelics may affect your perception and lead to risky decisions like speeding or missing traffic signals. We want everyone to stay safe.”
According to data from the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Natural Medicine Division, 21 healing centers have been licensed across the state along with 97 business owners and 67 handlers. As this number grows, CDOT is focused on keeping crash fatalities related to psychedelic impairment at zero.
“Similar to Colorado’s cannabis framework, we appreciate the strong interagency coordination in implementing the state’s new Natural Medicine Program,” said Dominique Mendiola, Senior Director for the Department of Revenue’s Natural Medicine Division. “This is particularly critical when it comes to acknowledging what’s legal for adults in Colorado, while reinforcing best practices for responsible consumption. We appreciate our partnership with CDOT in setting standards that can lead the nation for both personal use and participation in this new regulated framework.”
CDOT is working with several agencies including law enforcement and health organizations such as Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety to develop educational resources about impaired driving risks associated with psychedelics.
“One thing many people don’t think about is combining substances,” says Sgt. Sparks. “Let’s say you go to a concert and micro-dose mushrooms and have one or two beers, you might not think you’re too impaired to drive, but you likely are. And you’re at serious risk of a DUI. Just don’t take the chance.”
Educational materials will be distributed through licensed facilities as well as regulatory agencies involved in prevention and public health efforts.
Some effects from natural medicines can last hours or days beyond initial use; drivers are advised not to operate vehicles within 24 hours after consuming any impairing substance. Law enforcement officers trained as Drug Recognition Experts can identify impairment from various sources—including psychedelics—and DUIs carry penalties similar to those for alcohol-related offenses: fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Unlimited Sciences Executive Director Katie Pickard commented on community responsibility: “As advocates for natural medicine, we have a shared responsibility to keep our communities safe. That means making the conscious choice to never drive while impaired.”
Participants at licensed healing centers must complete a Transportation Plan form confirming they have arranged safe transport following their session.
