Bicycle DUI Laws in California
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
California prosecutes cycling under the influence under a separate, bicycle-specific statute rather than the standard motor-vehicle DUI law. California prosecutes cycling under the influence under a separate statute (CVC § 21200.5) rather than the standard auto DUI law (CVC § 23152). Maximum fine of $250 with no jail time. The offense is not a DUI conviction, so it does not trigger an automatic driver-licence suspension; courts may, however, refer riders under 21 to the DMV for a discretionary licence review. See Cal. Veh. Code § 21200.5 (Riding bicycle while under the influence).
Statute
What this means in practice
Riding a bicycle while impaired is a real legal exposure in California. If you've been drinking, the safer move is to walk your bike, take transit, or call a ride.
Ride sharp, ride legal
Run a 60-second pre-ride safety check
DUI, impairment, and distraction laws all assume you are riding a bike that is actually safe to ride. The M-check takes a minute and catches the things that get you hurt.
See the M-check guide