Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in Iowa
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
Iowa requires white lamp on the front, visible from a distance of at least 300 feet. For the rear, red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the iowa department of transportation, visible from a distance of 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper-beam headlamps. a red rear lamp visible from 300 feet may be used in lieu of the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See Iowa Code § 321.397 (Bicycle equipment - lamps and reflectors). 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 Iowa 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.
Browse bike lights