Is Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) Legal in California? (2026)
Yes — Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is legal in California as of 2026.
Law changed in 2016: Assembly Bill 51, which formally legalized and defined lane splitting, was signed into law in 2016. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Lane splitting is explicitly legal in California under California Vehicle Code §21658.5. Motorcyclists are permitted to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic when done safely and prudently. The California Highway Patrol provides guidelines for safe lane splitting.
What the Law Says
California Vehicle Code § 21658.1 formally allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction, provided it is done in a safe and prudent manner.
— California Vehicle Code §21658.5
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lane Splitting Rules | N/A |
| Lane Filtering Rules | N/A |
| Traffic Penalties | N/A if done safely; unsafe lane splitting may result in citations for reckless driving or unsafe operation. |
| License Requirements | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Assembly Bill 51, which formally legalized and defined lane splitting, was signed into law in 2016. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Lane splitting is legal in California, but it must be done in a safe and prudent manner. The CHP provides educational guidelines on safe lane splitting practices.
A common mistake is splitting at excessive speeds or in unsafe conditions, which can still lead to a citation for reckless driving.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across California. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is legal in California. You can lane splitting on a motorcycle without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
California vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, lane splitting on a motorcycle is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 3, and illegal in 46. California falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive California Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in California — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.