Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in Ohio
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
Ohio requires front lamp emitting a white light visible from at least 500 feet ahead. a flashing white light is expressly permitted by statute. For the rear, red rear reflector visible from 100 to 600 feet when directly in front of low-beam headlamps, or a red rear lamp visible from 500 feet in lieu of (or in addition to) the reflector. flashing red rear lights are expressly permitted. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See Ohio Rev. Code § 4511.56.
Statute
What this means in practice
The cheapest way to stay legal in Ohio 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