Bike laws · United States
Bike Laws in the US
What the law asks of people on bikes in the United States, topic by topic. There is no national bike code: each state writes its own rules and cities add more, so every page links to the statutes and tells you what to check locally.
The essentials in 1 minute
The rules people ask about most. Laws vary by state: click a topic for the details and the state-by-state rules.
| Topic | What the law says |
|---|---|
| Helmet | No federal or state law requires adults on regular bikes to wear one. 21 states and DC require helmets for minors, most often under 16, and some cities and counties go further. |
| Lights and reflectors | At night: a white front light, typically visible from 500 ft (152 m), and a red rear reflector or light. New bikes are sold with front, rear, pedal and wheel reflectors (CPSC, 16 CFR 1512). |
| E-bike classes | Class 1: pedal assist to 20 mph. Class 2: throttle to 20 mph. Class 3: pedal assist to 28 mph, riders 16+ with a helmet. All under 750 W, and treated like bikes: no license, registration or insurance. |
| Safe passing (for drivers) | Most states require at least 3 ft (0.9 m) when passing a cyclist; New Jersey and Pennsylvania require 4 ft, and several states also require a full lane change when possible. |
| Lane position | Ride with traffic, as far right as practicable when slower than traffic, except to pass, turn left, avoid hazards or when the lane is too narrow to share. |
| Sidewalks | Often allowed by state law with pedestrian rights and duties, but cities can ban it. In New York City it is illegal unless you are 12 or under on a small bike or a sign allows it. |
| Alcohol | Depends on the state: California has a bike DUI offense (fine up to $250), Oregon applies its DUII law to cyclists, and Washington lets police impound an intoxicated rider’s bike. |
| Headphones and phones | California bans covering both ears; New York allows only one earphone. Phone bans are often written for motor vehicles, so check your state’s wording. |
| Insurance | Not required for regular bikes or Class 1 to 3 e-bikes. Homeowners and renters policies usually cover theft and liability, but may exclude e-bikes as self-propelled vehicles. |
All bike law guides
Bike Helmet Laws by State
No federal law makes adults wear a bike helmet. 21 states and DC require one for kids, usually under 16, and some cities cover adults too. State-by-state table.
Read the guideBike Light and Reflector Laws
At night most states require a white front light visible from 300 to 500 ft and a red rear reflector or light. State examples plus the CPSC reflector rules.
Read the guideE-Bike Laws by State: Class 1, 2 and 3
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes assist up to 20 mph, Class 3 up to 28 mph, all under 750 W. Which states use the 3 classes and where each class may ride.
Read the guideRiding on the Road and Safe Passing Laws
Cyclists have the rights of drivers and ride as far right as practicable. Safe passing laws by state (3 ft, 4 ft, lane change) and the Idaho stop.
Read the guideIs It Illegal to Ride a Bike on the Sidewalk?
Sidewalk riding is legal in many states, but cities can ban it. In New York City it is illegal unless you are 12 or under. State and city rules explained.
Read the guideBiking Under the Influence, Phones and Headphones
Can you get a DUI on a bike? In some states yes: California fines up to $250, Oregon applies its DUII law. Plus headphone rules like California and New York.
Read the guideBike Insurance: Do You Need It?
No state requires insurance for a regular bike, and the model e-bike law exempts Class 1 to 3 e-bikes. What homeowners, renters and bike policies cover.
Read the guide