An overview of District of Columbia's bicycle laws, reviewed and cited to primary sources. Use the sections below to jump to a specific rule, or the Sources block at the end for the full citation list.
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.
Helmet rules
Required under age
Required under age 16
Applies to passengers
Yes
Standard
ANSI, Snell or ASTM F1447 (a CPSC-certified helmet satisfies all three).
Penalty
Civil violation. The Mayor may impose a fine of up to $25 for a first offense; the fine is waived on proof that the minor has obtained a conforming helmet and completed a bicycle-safety course.
18 DCMR § 1201.9 prohibits riding a bicycle on a sidewalk within the Central Business District (broadly bounded by Massachusetts Avenue NW, 23rd Street NW, Constitution Avenue NW and 2nd Street NE). Outside that zone, sidewalk cycling is permitted; riders must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before overtaking and passing under § 1201.10.
D.C. Code § 50-2206.11 makes it unlawful to operate or be in physical control of any 'vehicle' while under the influence, and § 50-2201.02 defines vehicle to include bicycles. A bicycle DUI carries the same statutory penalties as an auto DUI — a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail on a first offense — although the mandatory driver-licence revocation only attaches if the rider holds a D.C. licence.
White lamp on the front, visible from a distance of at least 500 feet.
Rear requirement
Rear reflector or light
Rear spec
Red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the Director of the Department of Transportation, visible from a distance of 50 to 300 feet. A red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to the reflector.
Bicycles are prohibited on all freeway segments in the District (the I-66, I-295, I-395, and I-695 segments). The District has no rural Interstate mileage; all Interstate segments are urban controlled-access roadways signed prohibited at every on-ramp.