Is Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) Legal in Oregon? (2026)
Partially — Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is legal with restrictions in Oregon as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Oregon Revised Statutes § 811.485 allows lane splitting for motorcycles but only under specific conditions: traffic must be stopped or moving at 10 mph or less, and the motorcycle must not exceed 10 mph faster than other traffic. This is the only state besides California with explicit lane splitting laws.
What the Law Says
Oregon law does not permit lane splitting. ORS 814.240 makes it an offense to overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken.
— Oregon Revised Statutes § 811.485
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lane Splitting Rules | No specific rules related to possession. |
| Lane Filtering Rules | No specific rules related to sale. |
| Traffic Penalties | Violations can result in fines and traffic citations. |
| License Requirements | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes since 2023.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement of lane splitting laws in Oregon is strict, with officers often citing general traffic safety statutes.
A common mistake in Oregon is riders assuming that filtering in slow or stopped traffic is permissible, which is generally not the case.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Oregon. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is legal with restrictions in Oregon. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Oregon 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. Oregon falls in the RESTRICTED 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.
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