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
Bicycles are prohibited on Interstate highways in North Carolina. Bicycles are prohibited on North Carolina Interstate highways (I-26, I-40, I-77, I-85, I-95, I-540) under North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) controlled-access regulations. Conventional US and state routes (US-1, US-17 Coastal route, US-64, NC-12 Outer Banks) remain open to bicycles. The NCDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Division publishes nine cross-state bicycle routes that intentionally avoid all Interstate mileage.
What this means in practice
Stick to surface streets, US routes, state highways, and dedicated paths. If your route in North Carolina appears to use an Interstate, plan a detour before you start.