California Motorcycle Laws

in California

Motorcycles are incredibly popular in California, thanks to the perfect weather, breathtaking mountain roads, and rider-friendly laws that attract motorcyclists from around the globe.

If you're riding a motorcycle in California, it's crucial to be familiar with both the general driving laws and the specific regulations that apply to motorcycles.

Motorcycle Safety Training Programs

Riders under the age of 21 are required to complete motorcycle safety courses, and the state also encourages other riders to pursue this course when applying for a motorcycle license. The California Motorcyclist Safety Program provides 15 hours of classroom instruction along with a "basic rider" course. Upon completing the program, participants receive a certificate needed to obtain the M1 license.

Obtaining Your Class M1 License.

To legally ride a motorcycle, you need a Class M1 license. You can obtain this license by applying at the DMV, where you'll need to pass both a written exam and a motorcycle skills test. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. For riders under 21, completing a state-approved motorcycle driver education course is mandatory. Initially, these young riders will receive a learner's permit. If you're riding a moped, motorized bicycle, or a bicycle with a motor, you'll need to apply for an M2 license instead.

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Grasping Motorcycle Insurance

In California, having insurance is mandatory to ride a motorcycle on public roads. The state requires minimum coverage limits of $15,000 for injuries to one person, $30,000 for injuries to multiple people in an accident, and $5,000 for property damage. If you're involved in an accident that results in over $750 in property damage, it's essential to report this to the DMV; failing to do so may result in the suspension of your license.

You are responsible for filing the report within 10 days, as law enforcement will not do this on your behalf. It’s advisable to consider getting insurance with higher limits than the minimum required. If you find yourself in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver, your insurance may be your only option, and the $15,000 limit can be quickly exhausted within just a few days of hospitalization.

Road Rules for Motorcycle Riders

As a motorcycle rider, you have the same rights and responsibilities as any other driver. However, California allows lane splitting, provided it is done safely to avoid accidents. The DMV suggests that riders keep the following guidelines in mind:

  • Follow all posted speed limits.
  • Be aware that other drivers may not see you.
  • Avoid areas where you might be in a vehicle's blind spot, particularly around larger trucks.
  • Stay alert and ready to react when needed.

Understand Helmet Requirements

In California, both riders and passengers are required to wear helmets that meet state regulations. According to the Vehicle Code, Division 12, Chapter 4, Article 7, Section 27803:

  • Both the driver and any passenger must wear a safety helmet that meets the standards set by Section 27802 while riding a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle.
  • It is against the law to operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the driver or any passenger is not wearing a safety helmet as required by subsection (a).
  • It is illegal for a passenger to ride on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the driver or any passenger is not wearing a safety helmet as required by subsection (a).
  • This regulation applies to individuals riding motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, or motorized bicycles on highways.
  • For this regulation, "wearing a safety helmet" refers to having a helmet that meets the standards of Section 27802 securely fastened to the person's head, fitted correctly to minimize excessive lateral or vertical movement.
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