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Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in New Hampshire - BikeSize bike laws guide

Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in New Hampshire

Last reviewed by BikeSize Editorial

This 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

New Hampshire requires lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 300 feet to the front, required from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise. For the rear, red reflector on the rear visible from at least 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower-beam headlamps. a red rear lamp visible from 300 feet may be used in addition to the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See RSA 266:86 (Lamps and reflectors on bicycles). 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 New Hampshire 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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Other New Hampshire cycling laws