An overview of Louisiana'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 12
Applies to passengers
Yes
Standard
ANSI Z90.4, Snell B-90, or ASTM (a CPSC-certified helmet meets these specifications)
Penalty
La. R.S. 32:199 requires every bicycle operator and passenger under 12 to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet that meets ANSI, Snell, or ASTM standards. Violation is a non-moving infraction; the maximum fine is $50 and may be waived if the parent or guardian shows proof of helmet purchase to the court.
La. R.S. 32:197(C) prohibits riding a bicycle on a sidewalk within a business district. Outside business districts there is no statewide ban, but cities and parishes may regulate further. New Orleans prohibits sidewalk riding in the French Quarter and Central Business District; Baton Rouge defers entirely to the state rule. Where sidewalk riding is allowed, riders must give an audible signal before passing pedestrians.
Louisiana's DWI statute (La. R.S. 14:98) applies to operators of a 'motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, vessel, or other means of conveyance.' Louisiana courts have consistently held that the residual 'other means of conveyance' clause does not reach bicycles, and a cyclist cannot be charged with DWI in the state. Public-intoxication and disturbing-the-peace charges remain available for impaired riders.
Lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front, required between sunset and sunrise.
Rear requirement
Rear reflector or light
Rear spec
Red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the Department of Public Safety, visible from all distances from 100 feet to 600 feet when directly in front of lawful lower-beam headlamps. A red rear lamp visible from 500 feet may be used in addition to the reflector.
Two abreast permitted on the roadway; riders shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and must drop to single file when necessary to allow overtaking.
Bicycles are prohibited on Louisiana Interstate highways (I-10, I-12, I-20, I-49, I-55) under La. Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) controlled-access regulations. Conventional US and state routes remain open to bicycles.