On A Bicycle
Veh. Code 21200 — a driver's rights, three feet to pass, and a helmet under 18
In California, a person riding a bicycle on a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle, including those on driving under the influence, except provisions that by their very nature can have no application.
Where on the road. Below the normal speed of traffic, a rider stays as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge, except when passing, preparing for a left turn, approaching a place where a right turn is authorized, or avoiding hazards, including a lane too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side. On a one-way road with two or more marked lanes, a rider may keep near the left.
Three feet for safety. A driver may not pass a bicycle going the same direction at less than three feet between any part of the vehicle and the bicycle or rider, and changes lanes to pass when another lane is available and it is practicable. If that cannot be done, the driver slows and passes only when it is safe. A violation is an infraction with a $35 fine, and $220 if a collision injures the rider.
- In darkness, a white front lamp visible from 300 feet, a red rear reflector or light visible from 500 feet, and reflectors on the pedals, shoes or ankles visible from 200 feet.
- A brake that can make one braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
- A rider or passenger under 18 years of age wears a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet on a street, bikeway or public path.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionDrivers may squeeze past a cyclist in the lane | What the law actually doesNot within three feet, and a lane change when one is available |
| The assumptionHelmets are a choice at any age | What the law actually doesRequired under 18 years of age |
Local ordinances on sidewalks, paths and bicycle registration are not all on this page. How these rules apply to a particular crash or ticket is a question for a licensed California attorney.
Sources for this section (5)
- Veh. Code 21200 — Bicycles: rights and duties of a driver
- Veh. Code 21202 — Bicycles: riding near the right-hand curb or edge
- Veh. Code 21201 — Bicycles: brakes, lamps and reflectors
- Veh. Code 21760 — Three Feet for Safety Act
- Veh. Code 21212 — Bicycle helmets for persons under 18
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed California attorney.