Can You Get a DUI in Idaho for Riding a Bicycle While Intoxicated?

When people hear “DUI” (Driving Under the Influence), they typically think of cars, trucks, or maybe motorcycles. But what about bicycles? In Boise and across Idaho, more people are using bikes for commuting, exercise, and fun—sometimes even after having a few drinks. So it's worth asking: Can you get a DUI for riding a bicycle while intoxicated in Idaho?

The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. Idaho law handles this issue differently than some other states, and the legal landscape includes both criminal and civil implications. This post will explore whether a DUI charge can apply to bicyclists, how public intoxication laws intersect, and what riders in Boise should know to avoid legal trouble.

Idaho's DUI Statute: Does It Apply to Bicycles?

Under Idaho Code § 18-8004, a person is guilty of DUI if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs while operating a “motor vehicle” on a public road. The key term here is motor vehicle.

The statute defines a motor vehicle as something that is self-propelled—not human-powered. By that definition, a traditional pedal-powered bicycle does not qualify as a motor vehicle under Idaho's DUI law.

Bottom line: You cannot be charged with a traditional DUI in Idaho just for riding a bicycle while intoxicated, because a bicycle is not considered a motor vehicle.

Are There Other Laws That Could Apply?

Just because you can't get a DUI on a bicycle doesn't mean you're completely in the clear. Other laws may still apply depending on the circumstances.

1. Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct

While Idaho doesn't have a specific public intoxication statute, local ordinances (especially in cities like Boise) can be used to cite or arrest individuals who are causing a disturbance in public while intoxicated. If you're drunk and riding a bike erratically, yelling, or falling into traffic, you could be cited for:

• Disorderly conduct

• Reckless behavior

• Creating a public nuisance

Boise city code allows law enforcement to intervene if a person's behavior under the influence poses a danger to themselves or others—even on a bike.

2. Traffic Violations and Reckless Operation

Bicyclists in Idaho are required to follow many of the same rules of the road as drivers of motor vehicles. That means:

• Stopping at stop signs

• Signaling turns

• Yielding to pedestrians

• Riding on the correct side of the road

If you're intoxicated and riding in a way that endangers traffic or violates these rules, you could be cited for reckless operation of a bicycle, or failure to obey traffic laws.

What About E-Bikes and Scooters?

This is where things get more complicated. Electric bicycles and scooters—especially those that can reach speeds over 20 mph or operate without pedaling—may fall into a gray area under Idaho law.

If the vehicle is considered self-propelled, it could be classified as a motor vehicle, especially if it's capable of speeds and operations similar to mopeds or small motorcycles.

In that case, yes—you could be charged with a DUI if you're operating an electric scooter or e-bike while impaired.

The Idaho Transportation Department and local law enforcement may consider factors like:

• The top speed of the device

• Whether the device requires pedaling

• Whether it has a throttle

If you're using an e-bike or scooter with motorized capabilities, err on the side of caution: don't ride if you're impaired.

Legal and Practical Consequences

Even though you might not face a DUI conviction for biking under the influence, the legal consequences of reckless behavior while intoxicated on a bike can still be serious:

• Fines and court costs from municipal citations

• Jail time for public endangerment or repeat offenses

• Injury or liability if you cause an accident involving pedestrians or vehicles

• Insurance complications if a crash occurs, even on a bike

And of course, there's the most important consequence: your safety. Biking while intoxicated puts you at a high risk of crashing, especially at night or in traffic-heavy areas.

What Should You Do Instead?

If you've been drinking and need to get home, here are safer and legally sound alternatives:

• Call a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft

• Use public transportation if available

• Walk with a friend, staying on sidewalks and being cautious

• Lock up your bike and retrieve it later

While biking may seem like the “safer” option compared to driving, doing so while impaired still carries risks—both legal and physical.

Final Thoughts

In Idaho, you won't be charged with a traditional DUI for riding a regular bicycle while intoxicated. However, that doesn't mean it's a safe or smart choice. You can still face legal trouble for disorderly conduct or traffic violations, and if you're using an electric bike or scooter, DUI laws may apply.

If you plan to drink, plan your transportation ahead of time. Protect yourself, others on the road, and your future by making responsible choices—on two wheels or four. Riding sober keeps everyone safer and out of court.