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.
New York requires white lamp on the front visible during darkness from a distance of at least 500 feet. For the rear, red or amber rear lamp visible from at least 300 feet (a passive reflector alone does not satisfy the statute — a lamp is required). reflective tires, or a wide-angle spoke-mounted reflector on each wheel, are also required, and approved reflectors must be fitted on the front and back of each pedal of every new bicycle sold in the state. Side and/or pedal reflectors are also required. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See N.Y. Veh. & Traf. Law § 1236.
The cheapest way to stay legal in New York 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.
New York also requires reflectors beyond the core front and rear lights. New bikes from a US shop will already meet this; if you've stripped the reflectors off, replace them or add reflective tape on the frame and pedals.