There is a wide variety of laws in California that are designed to protect motorcyclists, as well as other drivers on the road. Motorcycles must follow the rules of the road like any other vehicle, including speed limits and parking restrictions. However, there are additional laws governing motorcycles, including regulations about lane splitting, passengers, safety gear, and insurance. Anyone who rides a motorcycle on a California road needs to be aware of California motorcycle laws.
Lawyers for Justice, PC is a group of experienced lawyers who can help you understand the rules of the road and assist you with any property damage or injury caused by a motorcycle accident.
Overview of California Motorcycle Laws
California has some of the most detailed and rider-specific motorcycle laws in the country. Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned motorcyclist, it’s essential to understand the state’s legal expectations to stay safe and avoid fines. California’s universal helmet law requires all riders to wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet at all times. A rider’s helmet should include a sturdy chin strap and usually weighs about 3 pounds. Additionally, motorcyclists must hold a valid M1 or M2 endorsement on their license, which requires passing a motorcycle skills test or completing an approved motorcycle training course.
California is also the only state that formally allows lane splitting, though it must be done safely and at a reasonable speed. Equipment requirements include working turn signals, brake lights, mirrors, a functioning headlamp (even during daytime), and exhaust systems that comply with emissions standards. Insurance is mandatory, with minimum liability coverage required by law.
Failing to comply with these laws can result in fines, points on your license, or an increased risk of serious injury. Whether you’re commuting or riding for leisure, understanding and following these laws helps protect your rights and safety on the road.
Various Types of Motorcycle Laws and Requirements
California Lane Splitting Laws
Is lane splitting legal in California if you are riding a motorcycle? Yes, in most cases, lane splitting is legal under California motorcycle laws. However, lane splitting can still be dangerous, and should not be performed by newer riders. Riding on the shoulder of the road is illegal, as it is not considered lane splitting. Lane splitting is more dangerous with a larger speed difference between the motorcyclist and surrounding traffic. It’s not recommended to lane split next to larger or commercial vehicles. It can be tough to see these drivers, and any accident can be particularly devastating
Motorcycle Passenger Laws
What are California motorcycle passenger laws? In order for a motorcycle to carry a passenger, the vehicle must have a designated passenger seat and footrests. Passengers are generally required to follow the same safety guidelines as the driver, including protective gear like a DOT-approved helmet. There is no legal age limit for a motorcycle passenger. That said, the passenger must be able to reach the footrests safely. It is the motorcycle rider’s responsibility to ensure the passenger knows how to sit, hold on, and lean with the turns of the vehicle. Following these guidelines ensures both the rider and the passenger remain safe while on the motorcycle.
Motorcycle Noise Laws
What are the Motorcycle noise laws while riding in California? Any motorcycle manufactured after 1985 is subject to a noise restriction. The noise level for a motorcycle must be below 80 decibels, whether it’s driving or stationary. Under the California Motorcycle Anti-Tampering Act, it is illegal to modify or replace the exhaust system in a way that increases noise beyond legal limits, unless the system is labeled and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For motorcycles manufactured before 1985, the limit may be a little bit higher:
- Motorcycles manufactured before 1970 are limited to 92 decibels (dB)
- Motorcycles manufactured from 1970 through 1972 are limited to 88 dB.
- Motorcycles manufactured from 1973 through 1985 are limited to 83 dB
Motorcycle Parking Laws
What are the California Motorcycle Parking Laws? Motorcycles can legally be parked in any space where it would be legal to park a car. Motorcyclists are required to comply with other motor vehicle parking laws. These laws prevent motorcyclists from parking on a red curb, in front of a fire hydrant, or anywhere that could impede the flow of traffic.
California law prohibits motorcycles from parking on sidewalks, except during emergencies. No part of the motorcycle is allowed to extend more than 10 inches over the sidewalk, including wheels, handles, or mirrors. Motorcycles are allowed to share a metered parking space to save money. However, you should never assume that you can share a space with another vehicle, as some cities will give you a ticket for this practice. It’s also not recommended to park between cars where there is no designated space. This can make it difficult to successfully navigate out of a small area without inflicting vehicular or personal damage.
Motorcycle License and Endorsement Requirements
What are the requirements for obtaining a motorcycle license? It can be a bit more difficult to obtain a motorcycle license than a typical Class C license in the state of California. An M1 License allows you to drive any two or three-wheeled vehicle with a motor, including motorcycles and motorized scooters. An M2 license is less broad, allowing you to operate motorized bicycles, mopeds, and motorized scooters. However, an M2 license excludes the use of motorcycles.
Both an M1 and an M2 license are restricted to persons over the age of 15 and a half. The requirements for each license vary depending on the age of the recipient:
- Ages 15½ to 17½: Applicants must submit a completed DL 389 form, provide proof of driver’s education completion (or hold a valid Class C driver’s license), and pass both the standard driver knowledge test and the motorcycle knowledge test.
- Ages 18 to 21: Applicants are required to submit a completed DL 389 form and successfully pass both the driver knowledge test and the motorcycle knowledge test.
- Above 21: Finish the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) or pass a DMV motorcycle driving test.
Changes to Motorcycle Laws in 2025
As of January 1, 2025, several important updates to California motorcycle took effect to enhance rider safety and ensure proper insurance coverage.
1. Enhanced Insurance Requirements (SB 1107)
Under California Law, riders are now required to carry a higher minimum liability for motorcycle insurance (SB 1107). The mandated coverage amounts are:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury or death
- $60,000 total per accident for bodily injury or death
- $15,000 for property damage
This update significantly raises the property damage minimum from $5,000 to $15,000, aiming to ensure riders and others involved in accidents are adequately compensated
2. Authority to Impound Sideshow Vehicles (AB 1978)
New laws intended to curb “sideshow” events—unauthorized street racing or stunt shows—now give law enforcement increased power to immediately impound any participating vehicle, including motorcycles.
3. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (ACR 74)
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 74 officially designates May 2025 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in California. This initiative highlights rider training, public education, safety law, and road-sharing awareness.
4. Updated Helmet Standards
Motorcycle helmets are now subject to additional safety regulations from the Department of Transportation. Following a 2024 federal update to U.S. DOT standards, including new helmet dimensions and compression tests. Though the universal helmet law remains, the evolution in standards improves protection quality.
Contact LFJ – Best Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle laws might seem daunting to a new rider. If you’re in an accident and you don’t know the laws, you could lose out on compensation. The law requires insurance companies to pay for any injury covered under your plan. However, many insurance companies will avoid paying out what you deserve if you don’t have an experienced lawyer on your side. Lawyers for Justice, PC is a top-tier personal injury law firm with a legal team that specializes in fighting for your rights after a motorcycle accident.
Learn more about filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Call for a free consultation, and find out how much your case is worth: (844) 568-1702
450 N Brand Blvd #900, Glendale, CA 91203
Last Updated on June 24, 2025
