Bicycling in Nevada can be a fun, healthy, and eco-friendly way to get around. Whether you ride for commuting, exercise, or recreation, it’s important to know the bicycle laws that apply to you. Understanding your rights and responsibilities helps keep you safe and prevents costly tickets or legal issues.
In this article, you’ll learn the most important Nevada bicycle laws in simple language. We’ll cover where you can ride, equipment requirements, rules of the road, e-bike regulations, accident liability, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what it means to be a responsible cyclist in Nevada.
Bicycles Are Treated Like Vehicles
The first thing you should know is that in Nevada, bicycles are treated almost the same as motor vehicles. Under Nevada law (NRS 484B.763), you have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers when you’re on the road. That means:
- You must obey stop signs, traffic lights, and right-of-way rules.
- You must ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.
- You can be cited for traffic violations just like a driver.
If you’re a parent, you’re also responsible for making sure your children follow these rules.
Where You Can and Cannot Ride
Riding on the Road
You are expected to ride as far to the right side of the roadway as is safely possible. However, there are exceptions:
- When you’re preparing for a left turn
- When you’re passing another cyclist or vehicle
- When the lane is too narrow for you and a car to share side by side
- When there are obstacles, parked cars, or hazards on the right side
Always ride in a predictable way so drivers know what to expect.
Riding Side by Side
Cyclists in Nevada may ride two abreast (side by side), but no more than two in a single traffic lane unless the lane is specifically designated for bicycles.
Sidewalks
There is no statewide rule against riding on sidewalks, but many cities have their own restrictions. For example, in Las Vegas, you cannot ride on sidewalks in certain busy areas like Fremont Street. Always check local ordinances before riding.
Highways
You can ride on some highways in Nevada, especially in rural areas, but certain segments of interstates and freeways are restricted for safety reasons. Signs will let you know where bicycles are not allowed. Common restricted areas include parts of Interstate 15 and Interstate 95 near Las Vegas, and parts of I-80 near Reno and Carson City.
Passing and Sharing the Road
Nevada has a 3-foot passing law (NRS 484B.270). This means that when cars pass you, they must leave at least three feet of space. On roads with multiple lanes, drivers are expected to move over into another lane if possible.
As a cyclist, you should also maintain safe distance from parked cars to avoid “dooring” accidents, where a car door suddenly opens in your path.
Rules for Hand Signals and Turns
Just like drivers use turn signals, you must use hand signals when turning or stopping. The law requires you to signal at least 100 feet before your maneuver, unless it’s unsafe to take your hand off the handlebars.
The hand signals are simple:
- Left turn: Left arm straight out
- Right turn: Right arm straight out OR left arm bent upward
- Stop/slow down: Left arm bent downward
If you’re in a designated turn lane, you don’t have to use a hand signal.
Traffic Lights and Stop Signs
Cyclists must stop at red lights and stop signs. But Nevada has a special rule for traffic lights that don’t detect bicycles. If you wait through two full light cycles and the light doesn’t change, you may proceed cautiously after yielding to traffic and pedestrians.
Stop signs are different: you must always come to a complete stop before continuing.
Riding at Night
If you ride at night or in poor visibility, Nevada law requires your bicycle to have:
- A white front light visible from at least 500 feet
- A red reflector on the rear visible from 50–300 feet0
- Reflective material on the sides visible from 600 feet, OR side lights visible from 500 feet
Even during the day, wearing bright or reflective clothing makes you more visible and reduces your risk of being hit.
Helmet Laws
Nevada does not have a statewide bicycle helmet law for adults or children. However, helmets are strongly recommended by safety experts. For e-bikes, riders under 18 must wear helmets if they’re on a Class 3 e-bike (the fastest type).
Some local cities or counties may have helmet requirements for minors, so it’s always smart to check. And remember: even if the law doesn’t require it, a helmet can prevent life-changing injuries.
Other Important Rules
Here are some additional bicycle laws you should know:
- Keep one hand on the handlebars at all times (NRS 484B.780).
- Don’t carry more passengers than your bike is designed for.
- Don’t cling to moving vehicles—this is dangerous and illegal.
- Move over if five or more cars are backed up behind you and it’s safe to do so.
E-Bike Laws in Nevada
Electric bicycles are becoming more popular, and Nevada has specific rules for them. An e-bike is defined as a bike with pedals, a seat, and a motor of no more than 750 watts. There are three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal assist, up to 20 mph
- Class 2: Throttle powered, up to 20 mph
- Class 3: Pedal assist, up to 28 mph, must include a speedometer
You don’t need a license, registration, or insurance for e-bikes, but:
- Riders under 18 must wear helmets on Class 3 e-bikes
- Class 3 riders must be at least 16 years old
- All classes can ride on public streets, bike lanes, and shared-use paths unless local rules say otherwise
Mopeds vs. Bicycles
Mopeds are regulated differently from bicycles and e-bikes. In Nevada, mopeds must be registered with the DMV, and riders must have a driver’s license. Helmets are required for all moped riders. Mopeds can go up to 30 mph, so they’re treated more like small motorcycles than bicycles.
Can You Get a DUI on a Bicycle?
In Nevada, DUI laws apply only to motor vehicles, not bicycles. This means you can’t be charged with DUI for riding your bike while drunk. However, you can still be cited for reckless endangerment (NRS 202.595).
- As a gross misdemeanor, this carries up to 364 days in jail and/or fines up to $2,000.
- If your impaired riding causes serious injury, the charge can be upgraded to a felony with up to 5 years in prison.
Even without DUI laws applying, riding under the influence is unsafe and can put you at fault in an accident.
Bicycle Accidents and Liability
Unfortunately, bicycle accidents do happen, especially in busy areas like Las Vegas. In 2022, 15 cyclists were killed in Nevada, with most of the deaths occurring in Clark County.
If you’re involved in a crash:
- Call 911 and make sure police file a report.
- Exchange information with the driver and witnesses.
- Take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries.
- Get medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries appear later.
Liability and Comparative Negligence
Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages in a lawsuit if you’re partly at fault, as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible.
For example, if you were 30% at fault for an accident and your damages were $10,000, you could still recover $7,000.
Proposed Law Updates for 2025
Lawmakers are considering changes that could affect cyclists. Assembly Bill 168 proposes allowing cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs (sometimes called an “Idaho Stop” law).
Advocates say this would improve safety by letting cyclists clear intersections quickly. Similar laws in Idaho and Delaware have reduced injuries. However, until the bill becomes law, you must still make full stops.
Why Following Nevada Bicycle Laws Matters
Knowing and following the law does more than help you avoid tickets. It protects you, makes roads safer, and strengthens your position if you’re ever in an accident. Courts and insurance companies look at whether you followed the rules when deciding who is responsible.
By riding responsibly, you not only protect yourself—you also show drivers that cyclists are predictable and deserve respect on the road.
Key Takeaways
- You must follow most of the same rules as drivers, including obeying stop signs and lights.
- Ride on the right, but you can move left when it’s safer.
- Use lights and reflectors at night.
- Helmets aren’t legally required for most cyclists, but they’re strongly recommended.
- Cars must give you at least three feet of space when passing.
- E-bikes have special classifications and rules.
- Riding under the influence can still bring criminal charges.
- If you’re hurt in an accident, you may still recover damages even if you’re partly at fault.
Final Word
Cycling in Nevada is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, stay fit, and save on gas. But with that freedom comes responsibility. By knowing the Nevada bicycle laws and practicing safe riding habits, you can reduce your risk of accidents and protect your rights if something goes wrong.
And if you ever find yourself in a crash, don’t hesitate to talk to a Nevada bicycle accident attorney. They can help you understand your options, protect your legal rights, and pursue compensation if you’re entitled to it.