Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in Illinois
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
Illinois requires lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from at least 500 feet to the front. For the rear, red rear reflector of an idot-approved type visible from 100 to 600 feet when directly in front of low-beam headlamps. a red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to - or, under the 2017 amendment, in lieu of - the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See 625 ILCS 5/11-1507. Read the national bike lights & reflectors guide for comparison. For equipment that matches the visibility requirement, compare bike lights by beam and runtime.
Statute
What this means in practice
The cheapest way to stay legal in Illinois 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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