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

Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in New Mexico

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 Mexico requires lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front, required between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise. For the rear, red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the new mexico motor vehicle division, visible from all distances from 50 feet to 300 feet when directly in front of lawful lower-beam headlamps. a red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See NMSA § 66-3-705 (Bicycle equipment).

Statute

What this means in practice

The cheapest way to stay legal in New Mexico 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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