There are some of the finest motorcycle rides in the United States found in California, with coastal roads and mountain passes offering distinct scenery and enjoyment. But with riding, there are associated risks. In order to stay safe and legal, a proper understanding of the distinct rules of the road is necessary. Understanding the key California Motorcycle Laws is important not only to avoid getting tickets but to keep yourself safe and stand up for your rights in case of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
This article contains a summary of significant California regulations riders should understand in 2025. There is a mention of licensing requirements, the need for helmet riding, the practice of lane splitting, passenger riders, equipment need, and recently changed insurance minimums. Having knowledge of each of these California Motorcycle Law elements is essential for all riders.
You can’t just hop on any motorcycle and ride legally in California. You need proper endorsement of your license from the DMV.
California issues two main types of motorcycle licenses:
Interestingly, a standard Class C driver’s license allows you to operate a motorcycle with a sidecar in tow, a trike, or a motorized scooter.
Getting your M1 or M2 endorsement is a process involving several steps:
This is one of the most significant California Motorcycle Laws. California has a universal helmet law. This requires all motorcycle drivers and all motorcycle passengers on motor-driven cycles and motorized bicycles to wear a safety helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.
Failure to wear a DOT-approved helmet may result in a traffic ticket and fines. More importantly, it greatly increases the risk of serious head injury or death in a crash.
California is alone among the states in that it legally permits “lane splitting.” California Vehicle Code § 21658.1 defines it as riding a two-wheeled motorcycle between two lines of fixed or moving traffic in the same lane. It is done on most roads, including freeways.
But because it’s legal doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always safe. The law allows lane splitting only when a rider can split lanes safely. Lane splitting recklessly could lead to a charge of reckless driving. While the law itself does not set speed limits for splitting, safety guidelines are necessary. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), which develops educational guidelines, riders should exercise extreme caution. Safe lane splitting involves considering:
Notably, it is against the law for drivers of cars or trucks to knowingly block or obstruct a motorcyclist who is legally and safely splitting lanes.
Ride-sharing requires compliance with some regulations. Other equipment requirements also enhance safety and legality.
You can carry a passenger only if your motorcycle has special provisions for carrying passengers. That involves having:
Your motorcycle itself must possess some equipment requirements under California Motorcycle Laws:
Regularly inspecting your equipment makes you both safe and compliant.
Just as with automobile motorists, California motorcyclists must carry liability insurance (or a suitable substitute like a bond). Notably, the minimum levels of coverage increased significantly on January 1, 2025, by way of SB 1107:
These are the minimum amounts you must carry in order to drive legally. Nevertheless, given the severity of motorcycle crash injuries and the cost of medical care, these amounts can be exhausted very quickly. Experts strongly recommend carrying much higher liability amounts if you can afford it. Consider purchasing Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to cover yourself if you’re hit by someone with little or no coverage. You must carry proof of insurance on the road.
Adhering to California Motorcycle Laws is fundamental to safe riding.Coupled with the law itself, defensive motorcycle riding techniques, wearing safety and visibility gear (on top of the helmet), sobriety, and continuous training significantly reduce risks.
Regrettably, even safe motorcyclists may be the victims of accidents caused by reckless automobile or truck drivers. Familiar problems include drivers not noticing motorcyclists (visibility bias) or blaming riders unjustly. In the event of an accident, knowledge of the law serves to ensure your rights are protected. For example, knowing that lane splitting is permissible can counter unjust fault claims.
Motorcycle accidents have a high likelihood of resulting in serious injury since the motorcyclist is not shielded as a passenger in an automobile. Coping with the ensuing chaos—negotiating with insurance companies, determining fault, and obtaining a fair settlement—can be thoroughly intimidating. At KAASS LAW, our attorneys are aware of the unique physics and biases involved in motorcycle accident cases.
We are the representatives of injured cyclists in Personal Injury cases throughout California. We apply our knowledge of California Motorcycle Laws and accident reconstruction principles to establish liability and secure the complete recovery our clients require for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, as well as future needs. If you were injured by a negligent motorist on a bike, please Contact Us for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case.
Riding a motorcycle in California offers freedom and excitement, but it comes with responsibilities. Following California Motorcycle Laws regarding licensing, helmets, passengers, gear, and insurance, as well as knowing special regulations like lane splitting laws, is essential to your safety and to being legal. Knowing your rights as well as how to drive safely allows you to enjoy the open road more. And if the worst happens due to another’s negligence, remember that experienced legal help is available to protect your interests.
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