Is Lane Splitting Legal in Minnesota?

Motorcycle riding offers freedom on the road, but it comes with responsibilities and rules that every rider needs to understand. One topic that sparks frequent discussion is lane splitting. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Is lane splitting legal in Minnesota?“—the answer is YES, as of July 1, 2025. Minnesota traffic laws now allow lane splitting under specific conditions. Read on for more information on lane splitting in this guide provided by our experienced personal injury lawyers.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Motorcycle lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two or more lanes of stopped or congested traffic. Many motorcycle riders use this technique to bypass congestion, save time, and avoid sitting in traffic jams. It can be risky and potentially unsafe when motorcycles split lanes, especially in states where other drivers aren’t accustomed to the practice.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Minnesota?

Yes, lane splitting is legal in Minnesota as of July 1, 2025, according to the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center at the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). The new law allows motorcycles to share lanes with cars under specific conditions:

• Lane splitting is permitted when traffic is moving at 25 mph or slower.
• Motorcycles can pass vehicles in the same lane but must not exceed 15 mph over the speed of traffic.

What Are the Restrictions in the New Lane Splitting Law?

Lane splitting and filtering are NOT ALLOWED in certain situations, including:

• Near roundabouts (at the approach, drive-through, or exit)
• Within school zones
• In work zones with only one travel lane
• On expressway or freeway on-ramps

Rules for Motorcyclists: Lane Sharing, Lane Splitting, Lane Filtering, and Shoulder Surfing

Lane Sharing

Lane sharing is LEGAL in Minnesota. Motorcyclists can share a lane with one other motorcycle, but no more than two can ride side-by-side in the same traffic lane. Lane sharing with cars or trucks is not allowed, except under specific circumstances.

Lane Splitting

This maneuver happens when lane-splitting motorcyclists move between lanes of slow or stopped vehicles, traveling in the same direction. Splitting lanes is LEGAL in Minnesota.

Lane Filtering

Lane filtering refers to a motorcycle moving between two vehicles to move to the front of traffic at a traffic light or intersection. Lane filtering became LEGAL in Minnesota on July 1, 2025. Motorcyclists can move through stopped traffic at no more than 15 mph over the speed of the stopped traffic. Lane filtering is not allowed in school zones, roundabouts, or work zones with single-lane traffic.

Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder surfing, which involves motorcycles using the road shoulder to pass stopped or slow-moving traffic, is not explicitly mentioned in Minnesota’s traffic laws.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting laws vary across the United States. While many states prohibit it, states like California and Minnesota explicitly allow it. Other states, like Arizona and Colorado, permit variations of lane splitting. Many states remain silent, leaving the practice neither explicitly allowed nor prohibited.

Factors States May Evaluate When Deciding Whether to Legalize Lane Splitting

Lawmakers consider the pros and cons of lane splitting laws.

When motorcyclists lane split, there are multiple benefits, including reducing traffic congestion, smoother traffic flow, and shorter commute times, as motorcyclists can navigate through congested areas or around a traffic jam. It may also lower pollution levels by minimizing idling times and speeding up commutes. Additionally, a UC Berkeley study found that careful lane splitting can improve rider safety by lowering the risk of a rear-end motorcycle crash in stop-and-go traffic.

Lane splitting raises several concerns regarding traffic safety, including the risk of a motorcycle accident caused by side-swiping or collisions with other motor vehicles. Other drivers who are unfamiliar with lane splitting may react unpredictably, increasing the danger of motorcycle accidents. Legalizing it could also complicate traffic enforcement, requiring additional training and clearer regulations. Additionally, other vehicle drivers may view lane splitting as unsafe or unfair, potentially leading to increased road tension.