There are no federal laws outlining the rules of the road. Instead, each state has its own set of traffic laws. In many cases, these are based at least in part on the Uniform Vehicle Code.

In addition to this, counties, cities, and towns may have their own traffic regulations, usually known as ordinances or codes.

There are often regulations in other jurisdictions, including college campuses and military bases.

These local regulations may not take away any rights listed in the state traffic laws, unless this option is expressly permitted by the state. They also may not permit a person riding a bike to do anything prohibited by state law.

See below for state laws and municipal regulations that apply to riding your bike in the United States.

Cycling Laws » USA

Uniform Vehicle Code:

In the USA, the traffic laws of all but one state (Massachusetts) are based at least in part on the Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC). This is a recommended text for traffic laws that individual states are encouraged, but not required, to adopt in whole or in part.

When a law pertaining to cyclists is mentioned in any of our online courses, the relevant section(s) of the Uniform Vehicle Code will be made available. Note that the laws in your particular state, and your local ordinances, may vary from this.

• Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC)

Listings by state:

• CA – California
• TX – Texas
• VA – Virginia
• WA – Washington