Bicycle DUI Laws in North Carolina
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
In North Carolina, the standard DUI statute applies to bicyclists. North Carolina's DWI statute (N.C.G.S. § 20-138.1) applies to anyone driving any 'vehicle,' and § 20-4.01(49) explicitly provides that 'bicycles shall be deemed vehicles' for purposes of Chapter 20. Bicycle DWI carries the same statutory penalty structure as auto DWI, including the possibility of driver-licence revocation under § 20-17. See N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-138.1 (Impaired driving).
Statute
What this means in practice
Riding a bicycle while impaired is a real legal exposure in North Carolina. 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