Colorado Motorcycle Laws: A Guide (2026)
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Reviewed ByAdam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- Colorado motorcyclists must follow general traffic laws
- Riders and passengers under 18 must wear helmets
- Lane filtering is legal, but lane splitting is not
Because motorcyclists don’t have the protection of a car around them, motorcycle accidents often cause serious injuries. Colorado motorcycle laws aim to lower that risk. Here’s what you need to know about laws for Colorado motorcyclists.
Motorcycle License and Endorsement Rules
In Colorado, you don’t need a separate motorcycle license. Instead, you must add an “M” endorsement to your existing driver’s license.
There are two ways to get this endorsement. You may take a written exam, get an instructional permit, and then take and pass a road test. Alternatively, you may take a foundational course and earn a certificate.
Colorado Helmet and Eye Protection Laws
Colorado helmet laws require helmets for motorcyclists and motorcycle passengers under 18. Helmets are optional for older riders, but all riders must have eye protection. This may be a helmet visor, goggles, or safety glasses. Generally, the easiest way to protect your eyes is to wear a helmet with a built-in visor.
Lane Filtering and Lane Splitting in Colorado
In Colorado, lane splitting (riding between two lanes of fast-moving traffic going in the same direction) is illegal. However, in 2024, the state legalized lane filtering. To remain compliant with the new filtering law, motorcyclists must go no faster than 15 mph while passing stopped traffic going in the same direction.
Rules for Motorcycle Passengers
In Colorado, a motorcyclist may only carry a passenger if the motorcycle has a separate seat for a passenger. Passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection, and they must have footrests.
Additional Equipment and Operation Requirements
Colorado motorcycle laws require a motorcycle to include the following equipment:
- A headlight and a taillight
- A rear reflector
- A muffler
- At least one mirror
- A horn
- Working brakes (on at least one wheel)
Motorcycles must also have a securely mounted rear license plate.
Legal Support After a Motorcycle Accident
If you’ve been hurt in an accident you didn’t cause, you might be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, damage to your bike, and other losses. However, motorcycle crashes have their own unique challenges, and a Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer is equipped to help you navigate them.
Not sure how to find the right lawyer? Let ConsumerShield help. Fill out our form to start getting matched with qualified attorneys today!
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Frequently Asked Questions
No — Colorado only requires helmets for motorcyclists under 18. Many states require all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets regardless of age.
No. In Colorado, both drivers and motorcyclists must carry 25/50/15 liability insurance. This means $25,000 in bodily injury liability/person, $50,000 in bodily injury liability/accident, and $15,000 in property damage coverage.
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