The North Star State’s legislature has quietly carved a new path for riders—on July 1, 2025, Minnesota welcomes lane splitting and lane filtering for motorcycles.
Yes, motorcyclists will now be able to creep between lanes and filter through stopped traffic. It’s not reckless freedom, though—they’ve carved strict boundaries.
Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering for Minnesota Makes it a Boon for Motorcyclists
It’s worth noting that lane splitting and lane filtering are different. According to the state’s definitions, “lane splitting” applies when traffic is moving in two or more lanes, and a rider passes within the same moving lane, top speed capped at 25 mph, and never more than 15 mph faster than surrounding traffic.
Meanwhile, “lane filtering” kicks in when traffic is at a standstill—think red lights or gridlock. Riders can then weave forward at up to 15 mph, keeping it safe and slow.
Now, here’s the kicker: Minnesota isn’t just letting riders add this to their street riding legal tactics, it’s also outlawing deliberate interference. If you’re behind the wheel of a four-wheeler, you cannot impede a lane-splitting motorcyclist once the law takes effect . In short: if that rider pulls up alongside you, you don’t get to block ’em. I’ve seen people do this, and it’s extremely dangerous. Good on Minnesota.
But while the date’s set, the details are still percolating. Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety has been cautious, keeping PR campaigns and billboards on ice until the final wording is locked down. Riders and drivers alike have a month to adjust—because come July 1, this is the new normal.
So, if you ride—or you share the road with riders—dust off your common sense, respect the caps, and get ready to fold lane filtering into your street etiquette. It’s not about who’s boss—it’s about sharing space, smartly and legally. Ride smooth, ride smart, and don’t be a knucklehead.
Source: RideApart
