An overview of Nebraska'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
No statewide age requirement
Applies to passengers
—
Standard
—
Penalty
Nebraska has no statewide bicycle helmet law for any age. No Nebraska city has published a general bicycle-helmet ordinance. Federal CPSC certification (16 CFR Part 1203) applies to every helmet sold in the state.
Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-6,317 prohibits riding a bicycle on a sidewalk within a business district. Outside business districts the statute permits sidewalk cycling unless prohibited by local ordinance, and any rider on a sidewalk must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before overtaking. Lincoln defers to the state rule; Omaha bans sidewalk riding in the central business district.
Nebraska's DUI statute (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-6,196) applies only to operators of a 'motor vehicle.' Bicycles are not motor vehicles under § 60-6,317 et seq., so a cyclist cannot be charged with DUI. Public-intoxication and reckless-conduct charges remain available.
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 Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, visible from all distances from 600 feet to 100 feet when directly in front of lawful lower-beam headlamps. A red rear lamp visible from 600 feet may be used in addition to the reflector.
Single file required on the roadway. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-6,317 expressly prohibits riding more than single file except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
Bicycles are permitted on Nebraska Interstate shoulders in most rural segments under Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) policy, where no reasonable alternative route exists. I-80 across western and central Nebraska is the principal example. Urban segments around Omaha and Lincoln are signed prohibited. Always verify the corridor before riding.