Cycling laws in the USA
There are no federal laws outlining 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 influence your bicycle riding in the United States.
Trigger an unresponsive traffic light on your bike.
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.
Listings by state:
Cycling Laws » USA
Would you like to see your state’s/municipality’s traffic laws listed here?
Simply complete the form below,* and we will add that to our work plan. Providing us with a link to the local ordinances can greatly speed up the process.
* If you are considering purchasing access to the ‘Traffic Smarts for Cyclists’ course for your organization, we will add these here and in the course at no cost (minimum purchase required). To request complimentary access to review the course, and addition of the laws and regulations applicable to your location, please use this form.
