California’s Motorcycle Laws You Need To Know
September 27, 2024 Posted In Motorcycle Accidents
California’s motorcycle laws are designed to protect both riders and other road users, ensuring safety and promoting responsible riding. Here our Riverside motorcycle accident attorney provides an overview of the state’s key regulations.
Motorcycle Licensing in California
A specific license or endorsement is required to operate a motorcycle in California legally. Riders must apply for a Motorcycle Class M1 or M2 license, depending on the type of bike. A Class M1 license allows the operation of all two-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles and scooters, while a Class M2 license only allows the operation of motorized bicycles, mopeds, and scooters. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), riders under 21 must first obtain a permit for at least six months. A motorcycle permit restricts riding on freeways, at night, or with passengers.
Helmet Law
One of the most crucial laws in California is the universal helmet law. California Vehicle Code (VEH) Section 27803 mandates that all motorcycle operators and passengers must wear a motorcycle helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards. The law states: “It is unlawful to operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the driver or any passenger is not wearing a safety helmet.” Helmets must be certified and properly fitted, or you can face fines and increased risk of injury. This law highlights the importance of wearing a motorcycle helmet.
Lane Splitting
California is unique in that it is the only state that explicitly allows lane splitting under VEH Section 21658.1, the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. While lane splitting is legal, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) encourages riders to exercise caution. The CHP’s guidelines recommend that riders should lane split only when they can stay visible and react quickly to changing conditions.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
California also has strict laws regarding the equipment required on motorcycles. VEH Section 26709 requires motorcycles to have both left and right rear view mirrors to give riders, “a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet…”
Section 25650 mandates that motorcycles must have, “at least one and not more than two lighted headlamps.” The headlight must also remain on as long as the engine is running, even during daylight hours.
Passenger Laws
If a motorcycle is carrying a passenger, there are specific regulations that must be followed. According to VEH Section 27800, passengers must sit, “on a seat securely fastened to the machine at the rear of the driver and provided with footrests, or in a sidecar…”
Exhaust Noise Restrictions
California also regulates the noise level of motorcycle exhaust systems. Under VEH 27202, motorcycles manufactured after 1985 must not exceed noise levels of 80 decibels. Motorcycles are also required to have a muffler that complies with state emission and noise standards under section 27202.1.
Alcohol and Motorcycles
“It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a” motorcycle, according to VEH 23152. Penalties for DUI include fines, license suspension, and in some cases, jail time.