Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in District of Columbia
Last reviewed by BikeSize EditorialThis guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change - verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
District of Columbia requires white lamp on the front, visible from a distance of at least 500 feet. For the rear, red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the director of the department of transportation, visible from a distance of 50 to 300 feet. a red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See 18 DCMR § 1204 (Bicycle equipment - lamps and reflectors).
Statute
What this means in practice
The cheapest way to stay legal in District of Columbia is a USB-rechargeable front white light and a rear red light or reflector that meets the spec above. A $30 light set covers it.
Be seen, stay legal
Compare bike lights that meet the 500-foot rule
Most state codes require a white front light visible from 500 feet plus a rear reflector or red light. See lights that hit the spec and last a full commute.
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