Is Lane Splitting Legal in New Hampshire After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, lane splitting remains illegal in New Hampshire under RSA 265:113, which prohibits motorcycles from overtaking vehicles within the same lane. The state’s statutes do not recognize lane filtering or sharing, and no 2026 legislative amendments have altered this stance. Law enforcement agencies, including the New Hampshire State Police, actively enforce this restriction, citing safety risks and lack of infrastructure to support such maneuvers.

Key Regulations for Lane Splitting in New Hampshire

  • Statutory Prohibition: RSA 265:113 explicitly bans motorcycles from operating between lanes of traffic or alongside other vehicles in the same lane, classifying it as a moving violation.
  • No Exceptions for Filtering: Unlike states such as California, New Hampshire does not permit lane filtering at low speeds or in stopped traffic, even under municipal ordinances.
  • Enforcement Priorities: The New Hampshire Department of Safety prioritizes citations for lane splitting during high-traffic periods, with fines ranging from $50 to $200 and potential license points.

Recent advocacy efforts by motorcycle rights groups, including the New Hampshire Motorcycle Riders Association, have failed to gain legislative traction, leaving the law unchanged. The state’s Department of Transportation has not proposed infrastructure adjustments to accommodate lane splitting, reinforcing the legal barriers. Riders are advised to adhere strictly to lane discipline to avoid penalties.