Motorcycle Laws in California

Motorcyclists in California must follow the same laws that apply to drivers of standard passenger vehicles. The state also has specific laws that apply only to motorcyclists. These rules are meant to protect motorcyclists, as well as others that share the road.

Knowing and following these laws could help reduce your risk of an accident that could cause severe injuries or death.

If you are injured in a crash, a Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyer from the Arnold Law Firm will fight to hold negligent motorists responsible for your injuries. Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.

Can You Drive a Motorcycle in California Without a Motorcycle License?

It is illegal to ride a motorcycle in California without a Class M1 license, which can be obtained from the DMV after passing a skills test and written exam. Riders who are under the age of 21 must pass an approved rider education course. They must also obtain a learner’s permit and hold the permit for at least six months before they can apply for a license. You can obtain a permit at 15 and 1/2 years old and apply for a license once you turn 16.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE?

All applicants must pass a vision exam, skills test and a knowledge test that covers information found in the California Motorcycle Handbook. Applicants, regardless of age, must also pass a California Motorcyclist Safety Program training course administered by the California Highway Patrol.

Permit holders may ride their motorcycle alone, but not after dark on the freeway.

Before a permitholder can be issued an official license, he or she must pass a skills examination test. This is usually conducted on a slow-speed closed-course in a parking lot.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE?

In California, if you are caught riding a motorcycle without a valid motorcycle license you could be fined up to $1,000 and spend up to six months in jail.

What Are the Different Motorcycle License Types in California? (M1 vs. M2 Explained)

If you’re planning to ride in California—or guiding someone else through the process—it’s important to know which type of motorcycle license applies to your situation. The state issues two primary types: M1 and M2. Because the M1 and M2 licenses apply to different types of bikes and motorized vehicles, it’s important to know what sets them apart. Having a clear understanding helps you ride legally, avoid unnecessary fines, and stay in line with California motorcycle laws from the start.

If you hold an M1 license, you’re legally allowed to operate nearly any two-wheeled motor vehicle on California roads. That means you can ride everything from a traditional motorcycle to a motorized scooter. It’s the broader of the two options and gives riders the most freedom when it comes to vehicle choice.

If you plan to ride a standard motorcycle on public roads—or even certain types of electric motorcycles—you’ll need an M1. In contrast, an M2 license limits you to motorized bicycles, mopeds, or scooters that fall under specific engine and speed classifications.

When discussing motorcycle permit restrictions, it’s important to note that permit holders—regardless of M1 or M2—cannot ride at night, carry passengers, or travel on freeways until they pass the required skills and knowledge tests.

If you’ve been injured by an unlicensed or improperly licensed rider, a Sacramento motorcycle injury attorney at Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys can help you explore your legal options.

New California Motorcycle Laws in 2025: What’s Changed This Year?

In 2025, California made a few key changes that affect people who ride motorcycles. It’s important to know what those updates are—not just to stay safe, but also to avoid getting ticketed or running into legal trouble. These developments tie into broader topics such as California motorcycle license requirements and whether you can drive a motorcycle with a permit in specific situations.

Street Takeover Enforcement

New legislation has empowered law enforcement to crack down on street takeovers and sideshows with greater authority. Vehicles involved in blocking roadways or participating in stunts can now be impounded for up to 30 days—even if the driver avoids arrest. Spectators or organizers who contribute to the disturbance or obstruct traffic may also face citations or criminal charges. These measures aim to deter reckless behavior and protect public safety.

Off‑Highway Vehicle (OHV) Rule Updates

Riders who take their bikes off-road should be aware of new rules that went into effect at the start of 2025. Dirt bikes and ATVs that were issued Red Stickers between 2003 and 2021 are now allowed to operate on designated public lands throughout the year, as long as they stay properly registered. For newer models made after 2022, the rules are stricter—these vehicles must now meet updated emissions standards. If they don’t, they’ll only be allowed to run on private property or at specific, approved events.

Whether you’re still riding with a permit or already licensed, it’s worth checking how the new California rules apply to you. Knowing what you can and can’t do under a permit, where you’re allowed to ride, and what’s expected helps you avoid fines or other problems. The better informed you are, the easier it is to stay safe and ride legally.

Motorcycle DUI Laws in California: Penalties and Legal Risks

Riding a motorcycle while impaired is taken very seriously under California law, and consequences can include far more than a ticket. Understanding the rules under motorcycle DUI California is essential for anyone who rides.

Blood Alcohol Rules and Consequences

If you’re riding a motorcycle in California, the law doesn’t give you a pass when it comes to alcohol. The BAC limit is 0.08% for anyone over 21, and just 0.01% if you’re under that age. Go over those numbers, and the fallout hits fast—license suspension, fines, mandatory DUI school, or worse. In some cases, people end up behind bars. It’s a tough spot, especially if it’s your first run-in with the law.

What Happens After Arrest

Once arrested for DUI on a motorcycle, your motorcycle license may be suspended immediately, depending on your BAC level. In addition, the DMV may require you to complete alcohol education classes or install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, and the court will likely assign fees and penalties before any reinstatement happens.

Legal Impact on Motorcycle Accident Claims

If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash and alcohol was involved, you’re likely going to face a tough legal road. Under California motorcycle laws, the blame usually lands on the impaired rider—even if the situation wasn’t entirely their fault. That kind of assumption makes it much harder to recover damages for things like hospital bills, missed work, or long-term injuries.

But not every case is black and white. There are situations where fault is shared or misjudged. That’s why getting legal help early on matters. A good attorney can look at the facts, find weaknesses in the case against you, and help push back if you’ve been unfairly blamed. The sooner you act, the better chance you have to protect your future—especially if your record and finances are on the line.

California E-Bike and Electric Motorcycle Laws: What Riders Need to Know

California has separate rules for e-bikes and electric motorcycles, and knowing the difference is key before you get on the road. Each type has its own set of legal requirements around age, licensing, safety gear, and where you can ride.

E-Bike Classifications and Rules

The state divides e-bikes into three classes. Class 3 e-bikes, which can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, come with the strictest rules.

You need to be at least 16 to ride, and a helmet is required. Most bike paths are off-limits unless local rules make an exception. There’s no need for a license or registration, but you still have to follow regular traffic laws like any other bicycle rider.

Electric Motorcycle Licensing and Insurance

Electric motorcycles require a valid M1 license, insurance, and registration. If you’re just getting started, you may wonder, can you drive a motorcycle with a permit? You can, but it’s limited. What does a motorcycle permit allow you to do? It lets you ride during the day but not at night, on freeways, or with passengers. These motorcycle permit restrictions are designed to give you experience while reducing risk.

Are You Legally Allowed to Ride in Carpool or HOV Lanes in California?

Motorcycles are allowed in carpool and HOV lanes across California, even if you’re riding alone. The rule makes commuting easier for riders and helps reduce traffic overall. That said, your bike still needs to meet basic legal requirements, including up-to-date registration and valid motorcycle insurance in California. In some areas, you might see signs that limit motorcycle access during certain hours, especially if the lane is toll-based or reserved for clean-air vehicles. It’s important to keep an eye out for those exceptions. For most riders though, the ability to use these lanes is a real benefit.

Motorcycle Passenger Laws in California: Age, Equipment, and Safety Guidelines

California doesn’t set a strict minimum age for motorcycle passengers, but the law does require that they meet certain safety conditions before riding. The most important is that a passenger must be tall enough to reach the footrests with both feet while seated. If a child is too small to do that, they legally can’t ride, regardless of their age.

Required Safety Equipment for Passengers

Every motorcycle passenger must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards. Additionally, the motorcycle must be equipped with a proper passenger seat and functional footrests. It’s also recommended—though not legally required—that passengers wear protective clothing such as gloves, jackets, and closed-toe shoes, especially for longer or high-speed rides.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Rules

Riding with a passenger who doesn’t meet these requirements can lead to traffic citations, points on your license, or fines. If an accident happens, failing to follow passenger laws could also complicate insurance claims or raise questions about liability.

What Equipment or Modifications Are Illegal on Motorcycles in California?

Motorcyclists in California are free to personalize their bikes, but not every upgrade is legal. Certain modifications can lead to citations, registration problems, or even affect your motorcycle insurance rates.

Commonly Prohibited Modifications

Straight pipes that remove or bypass the muffler are illegal because they violate California’s noise limits. Any exhaust system that fails to meet the state’s decibel requirements can result in a fine. Aftermarket lighting is another area where riders often run into trouble. Blue or red lights, underglow kits, and flashing LEDs are banned if they resemble emergency vehicle lights or create a distraction. Similarly, changing your turn signals, brake lights, or headlamps in ways that reduce visibility or fail to meet DOT standards can lead to legal issues.

This matters because violating California’s motorcycle equipment rules isn’t just a ticket risk—it can also make your insurance company deny a claim or increase your premiums after an accident.

How Modifying Your Motorcycle Can Impact an Injury Claim

If your motorcycle has equipment that doesn’t meet California’s safety or vehicle code standards—like illegal exhaust systems, non-DOT lighting, or removed mirrors—it can affect how an injury claim is handled after a crash. Even if you weren’t at fault, the other party’s insurance company might try to argue that your modifications contributed to the accident or made your injuries worse, which could reduce the compensation you’re entitled to.

This is why it’s important to have legal help from a team that understands both motorcycle law and the insurance tactics used to shift blame. At Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, we work with riders to build strong claims that focus on the facts. We help document compliance wherever possible and push back when insurers try to use unrelated modifications to avoid paying what’s fair. We know what’s at stake, and we know how to help.

What Are the Rules for Riding a Motorcycle in California?

Motorcyclists in California are expected to follow certain rules for their own safety and the safety of others. This includes regulations on safety equipment and protective apparel.

What Does a Motorcycle Need to be Street Legal in California?

California has numerous regulations on safety equipment for motorcyclists, including the following:

• Motorcycles must be equipped with right and left mirrors, per CVC 26709.
• Handlebars may not be installed in such a position that puts the driver’s hands more than six inches above his or her shoulder height as he or she is sitting on the seat, according to CVC 27801.
• Working turn signals, both front and rear, are required for all motorcycles built and first registered on January 1, 1973, or later.
• For motorcycles and exhaust systems manufactured from 2013 on, exhaust systems must be compliant with the Motorcycle Anti-Tampering Act.
• If you drive a motorcycle at night you are required to have a minimum of one headlight.
• Under state law, motorcycles must have taillights that will remain on for a minimum of 15 minutes after the engine has been shut off.

Helmet Laws and Protective Gear Recommendations:

Wearing protective gear and apparel also decreases your chance of suffering a serious or life-threatening injury if an accident occurs.

California Vehicle Code (CVC) 27803 requires motorcycle drivers and riders to always wear helmets. The helmet must be in compliance with standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

There are three principal performance requirements for motorcycle helmets under the USDOT Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218:

1. A minimum level of energy absorbency upon impact with a fixed, hard object.
2. A maximum level of penetration when the helmet is punctured.
3. The helmet’s retention system (chin strap) may not break while undergoing a stress test.

Motorcyclists are also encouraged to wear face and eye protection, long-sleeved jackets with reflective material, long heavy pants, over-the-ankle boots and full-fingered gloves.

For facial protection, California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suggests a plastic shatter-resistant face shield in place of goggles or glasses, as these only provide protection for your eyes.

What is Expected of Motorcycle Riders on the Road?

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles advises riders to be responsible out on the road. You should wear the proper clothing to protect yourself and make yourself visible to others.

Make sure to communicate with other drivers about your intentions. For example, if you want to change lanes or make a turn, make sure to signal and give drivers time to see you.

Make sure to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. This is important for passing other vehicles and lane splitting.

It is also vital for riders to always be prepared to maneuver or slow down to avoid a collision. There are many hazards that are not a problem for cars but present a serious hazard to riders.

Some other important safety tips for motorcyclists in California include:

• Maintain a safe speed, as speeding increases the risk of a crash
• Stay out of other vehicles’ blind spots, especially commercial trucks
• Always assume drivers cannot or do not see you

Is It Legal to Split Lanes in California?

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist maneuvers between two lanes of traffic to get around vehicles. Lane sharing is when two motorcycles are traveling side by side in the same lane. Lane sharing is legal in many jurisdictions, including in California.

LANE SPLITTING LAWS IN CALIFORNIA

In 2016, Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. signed California Assembly Bill 51, which defined and legalized motorcycle lane-splitting. California is the only state in the country that allows it.

For the purposes of this section, “lane splitting” means driving a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400, that has two wheels in contact with the ground, between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane, including on both divided and undivided streets, roads, or highways.
Source: California Highway Patrol

The authorizing code was established to reduce catastrophic accidents. In practice, however, lane-splitting seems to produce the most accidents.

There are some additional laws that could help protect riders when they are lane splitting.

California Vehicle Code 22517 makes it illegal for motorists to open or leave open vehicle doors unless it is reasonably safe to do so and will not interfere with the movement of traffic.

It is illegal for motorcyclists to use the shoulder of a road for lane splitting.

The law states that California Highway Patrol (CHP) is allowed to create guidelines or suggestions of when lane splitting will be allowed based on the nature of the surrounding traffic.

Some of these suggestions include:

• Motorcyclists should not drive more than 10 miles per hour faster than the flow of surrounding traffic.
• Motorcyclists should not split lanes while traveling faster than 30 miles per hour.
• Motorcyclists should not split lanes at merge points.
• Motorcyclists should watch out for cars approaching in the distance.

While these guidelines were created by the CHP, they are only suggestions and motorcyclists cannot be issued a ticket for not following them.

However, it is important to take additional precautions when lane splitting, otherwise you could get into a dangerous accident. For example:

• Avoid lane splitting next to large vehicles, like buses, semi-trucks or motorhomes
• Do not linger in the blind spots of other vehicles for too long
• Avoid lane splitting at high speed, as traffic maneuvers become more dangerous
• Remember that lane-splitting between the far-left lanes is usually safer than splitting between other lanes
• Take note of the width of lanes and road and weather conditions before lane splitting

WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF LANE-SPLITTING?

Lane-splitting allows motorcycles to avoid coming to a stop on busy highways. Without lane-splitting, motorcyclists are forced to sit in a death-zone every time traffic comes to a stop. However, some riders may not be aware that the law requires them to limit their speed relative to the speed of the vehicles being passed. Motorcyclists are not allowed to travel at the speed limit between stopped vehicles.

Almost all incidents between motorcycles and passenger vehicles that occur while lane-splitting are the result of being pinned between two vehicles. The gap sometimes closes when the driver of one or both cars veer toward the motorcycle.

Some experts speculate that as the driver’s attention is drawn to the passing motorcycle, they inadvertently steer in the same direction. The motorcyclist is then placed in a very dangerous situation wherein their fairing or handlebars are struck on one side, making it extremely difficult to keep the bike upright.

Unfortunately, drivers rarely admit that they veered into the motorcycle. The driver may not even be aware of his or her own actions, or, as often is the case, the driver gives a dishonest account of the accident because he or she does not want to be held responsible for the accident.

The best way to protect yourself while lane splitting is to avoid passing between parallel cars so that you have room to move if another driver merges and closes the gap.

If you must pass parallel cars, make sure they see you coming before you are in the middle of the cars.

Intentionally blocking or impeding a motorcyclist in a way that could cause harm to the rider is illegal.

WHAT ARE SOME SAFETY TIPS TO NON-MOTORCYCLISTS ON THE ROAD?

It is also important that those who share the road with motorcyclists also follow some safety guidelines to avoid a crash. This includes the following:

• Drivers who block a rider’s path on purpose are breaking the law.
• Trying to stop a rider from riding down the road by opening a car door is illegal.
• If you are in the far-left lane you need to move into the left-most part of the lane to give riders enough room to go by.

Drivers who act negligently and veer into motorcyclists who are lane-splitting may be liable for damages.

DETERMINING LIABILITY FOR LANE-SPLITTING CRASHES

When a lane-splitting accident occurs, the insurance companies will investigate who was at fault and assess the factors in the accident to determine its cause. Liability can be complicated in these cases, so it is recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney about an accident involving lane-splitting.

The focus of the liability investigation will likely be on whether the motorcyclist split lanes safely. If the motorcyclist conducted this maneuver in an unsafe manner, such as by speeding or cutting off other vehicles, the rider may be found at fault for the accident. However, if the motorcyclist did the maneuver safely, he or she might not be found at fault.

CARRYING PASSENGERS

California has no law setting an age restriction for passengers on motorcycles. This means that people of any age may ride a motorcycle as a passenger. However, California law says that passenger seats must be securely fastened to the motorcycle behind the driver’s seat. Passengers must have footrests in place, which must be used while the motorcycle is in motion.

Due to the requirements outlined for passenger seats on motorcycles, children may technically be allowed to ride as a passenger. However, the child must meet the requirements to no longer need a child seat. This means he or she must be at least 4’9”.

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Motorcyclists are required to carry minimum amounts of liability insurance:

• $5,000 for property damage
• $15,000 for bodily injury to an individual
• $30,000 for bodily injuries to multiple victims

In California, if a motorcyclist is involved in an accident and does not carry the minimum amounts of insurance coverage, he or she may face a one-year driver’s license suspension.

It may also be a good idea to carry some form of personal injury protection insurance, like Med Pay. This optional insurance add-on can help cover the costs of medical treatment while you are awaiting compensation from the party responsible for the accident.

CONTACT OUR  CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS

Whether you’ve been injured in a crash or you’re facing legal trouble after a riding incident, the team at Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys is here to help. We’ll work to secure the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We will gather the evidence needed to prove your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence and fight to hold negligent motorists accountable for the harm they have caused you. We offer experienced legal support tailored to motorcyclists and understand how California’s complex traffic and equipment laws can affect your case. A free consultation is the first step—and there’s no fee unless we win. To speak with a Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyer, call (916) 777-7777 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form today. We’ll review your situation and explain exactly where you stand.

Learn the legal options available to you by scheduling a free, no-obligation consultation with an injury lawyer from our law firm today. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis and only get paid if we help you recover compensation.

Call (916) 777-7777 or complete our Free Case Evaluation form now.