State by State Motorcycle Helmet Laws in the United States

Let's just start this off by saying that you should always be wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle. Yes, that includes riding up and down the block when you're showing off to the neighborhood.

In simple terms, wearing a motorcycle helmet can save your life. 

Motorcycle helmet laws are different in each state in the United States. Making it important to know which laws apply to you and where you'll be traveling on your riding adventures.

Just because you live in a state that does not require a motorcycle helmet (example: Iowa) you are not granted permission to ride without a helmet in a state where every rider is required to wear a certified motorcycle helmet. Traveling outside of your home state means different laws could apply. Make sure to check out those laws before and be prepared. If not, you may end up with some hefty fines and getting your motorcycle impounded.

Always check before your trip as laws are subject to change overtime. 

The Types of Motorcycle Helmet Laws in the United States

• States that require helmets for riders and passengers of all ages, regardless of experience level. This universal helmet law is enforceable in 18 states and the District of Columbia.
  
  
• States that require helmets for certain types of riders and passengers (such as people under 18 or 21), but make them optional for adult motorcyclists. This applies to 29 states.
   
• States where helmets are optional for all motorcycle riders and passengers, of which there are just three states where this is the case.

As of August 2024, there are only three states which have no motorcycle helmet laws: Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire.

What type of helmet safety certification is required?

In the United States, a helmet that is approved by the Department of Transportation, also known as DOT-approved, is classified as an adequate level of safety. 

However, all safety certifications are not equal. DOT is the lowest safety certification and is fairly easy to pass as the safety testing is not as rigorous as other certification standards like Snell or ECE. In our opinion it's always worth spending a little bit more to get a helmet with a Snell or ECE certification than a helmet that is only DOT certified.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws by State

All motorcycle helmet laws are up to an individual state’s discretion and subject to change, so remember to always check if you travel to any of these states.

Here’s our quick guide to the current helmet laws for each state. For more in-depth information regarding the types of helmets, specific age requirements, and other nuanced information, scroll further down for an in-depth guide on each state’s helmet laws for motorcyclists. 

State	Current Helmet Law
Alabama	Universal helmet law enacted 1967, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Alaska	Helmet required for motorcycle riders under 18 or with instructional permit; all passengers must wear a helmet. The Universal helmet law was repealed 1976.
Arizona	Motorcycle helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
Arkansas	Motorcycle helmets required for riders under 21. Universal helmet law repealed 1997.
California	Universal motorcycle helmet law enacted 1992, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Colorado	Helmets required for all riders and passengers under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Connecticut	Helmets required for all riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
Delaware	Helmets required for all riders under 19. Universal helmet law repealed 1978.
D.C.	Universal helmet law enacted 1970, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Florida	Helmets required for riders under 21 or those with less than $10,000 in medical coverage for motorcycle-related injuries. Universal helmet law repealed in 2000.
Georgia	Universal helmet law enacted 1969, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Guam	Helmets required for all riders and passengers under 18 and drivers licensed for fewer than 3 years.
Hawaii	Motorcycle helmets required for all riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Idaho	Motorcycle helmets required for all riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1978.
Illinois	No restrictions, just one of three states without any restrictions. Universal motorcycle helmet law repealed in 1970.
Indiana	Helmets required for all riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Iowa	No restrictions, one of three states without any motorcycle helmet laws. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
Kansas	Helmets required for all riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
Kentucky	Helmets required for riders under 21 or who have been licensed less than one year. Universal helmet law repealed 1998.
Louisiana	Universal helmet law enacted 2004, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Maine	Under-18 and riders licensed less than one year
Maryland	Universal helmet law enacted 1967, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Massachusetts	Universal helmet law enacted 1967, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Michigan	Helmets required for riders under 21 or for riders and passengers without additional insurance. Universal helmet law repealed 2012.
Minnesota	Helmets required for all riders under 18 or with instructional permit. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Mississippi	Universal helmet law enacted 1974, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Missouri	Motorcyclists may ride without helmets if they are 26 yrs or older and have medical insurance.
Montana	Helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Nebraska	Universal helmet law enacted 1989, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Nevada	Universal helmet law enacted 1972, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
New Hampshire	No restrictions, just one of three states that doesn’t have any active motorcycle helmet laws.
New Jersey	Universal helmet law enacted 1968, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
New Mexico	Helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
New York	Universal helmet law enacted 1967, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
North Carolina	Universal helmet law enacted 1968, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
North Dakota	Helmets required for all riders under 18 and all passengers if operator is under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Northern Mariana Islands	Despite being a US territory, they have a Universal helmet law, requiring all riders and passengers to wear a helmet at all times.
Ohio	Helmets required for riders under 18 or who have been licensed for less than one year as well as for all passengers when the operator is required to wear a helmet. Universal helmet law repealed 1978.
Oklahoma	Helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
Oregon	Universal helmet law enacted 1988.
Pennsylvania	Helmets required for all riders under 21 or who have been licensed for less than 2 years, except those who complete a PennDOT- or Motorcycle Safety Foundation-approved safety course. Universal helmet law repealed 2003.
Puerto Rico	Universal helmet law.
Rhode Island	Helmets required for all riders under 21 or who have been licensed less than one year; helmets required for all passengers. Universal helmet law repealed 1976.
South Carolina	Helmets required for all riders under 21. Universal helmet law repealed 1980.
South Dakota	Helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Tennessee	Universal helmet law enacted 1967.
Texas	Helmets required for all riders under 21 as well as those who have not completed a safety course or have no medical insurance (secondarily enforced). Universal helmet law repealed 1997.
Utah	Helmets required for all riders under 21. Universal helmet law repealed 1977.
Vermont	Universal helmet law enacted 1968
Virgin Islands	Universal helmet law.
Virginia	Universal helmet law enacted 1970.
Washington	Universal helmet law enacted 1990.
West Virginia	Universal helmet law enacted 1971.
Wisconsin	Helmets required for riders under 18 or with instructional permit. Universal helmet law repealed 1978.
Wyoming	Helmets required for riders under 18. Universal helmet law repealed 1983.

 

State by State Helmet Laws: 

Alabama Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Alabama, both drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets that comply with USDOT standards. This applies to motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, three-wheeled motorcycles, and mopeds.

The law specifies that helmets must have a hard outer shell made of non-shatterable material that resists impact and penetration. Inside, there must be a shock-absorbent cradle to maintain separation between the head and the outer shell. The padding must be impact-resistant, absorbent, and thick enough to protect all areas near the outer shell. Helmets should be made of durable materials that do not degrade significantly over time and must not contain materials that cause skin irritation or disease.

Additionally, helmets must have a permanently attached, adjustable chin strap that keeps the helmet securely in place while riding. Although a visor is not mandatory, any visor present must be flexible or snap-on and no more than a quarter-inch above the helmet's surface.

Arizona Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Arizona, motorcycle drivers and passengers under 18 are required to wear a helmet. Regardless of age, all riders must wear protective glasses, goggles, or a transparent face shield unless the motorcycle is equipped with a protective windshield. Helmets are not mandatory for moped riders, as mopeds are defined by the state as having an engine displacement of 50cc or less, brake horsepower of 1.5 or less, and a maximum speed of 25 mph.

Additionally, riders must wear boots or shoes that cover the ankle and are made of sturdy material that does not interfere with motorcycle controls.

Arkansas Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Arkansas, motorcycle helmet laws mandate that drivers and passengers under the age of 21 must wear protective headgear. However, this requirement does not extend to three-wheeled motorcycles that are equipped with a cab and windshield, provided they do not exceed 20 horsepower and are used by municipal police departments. Regardless of age, all motorcycle riders and passengers in Arkansas are required to wear protective eyewear, which can be in the form of glasses, goggles, or a transparent face shield.

Additionally, Arkansas law stipulates that all motorcycles must be equipped with daytime running lights to enhance visibility and safety on the road.

California Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In California, everyone who drives or rides on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle must wear a helmet. All helmets must meet USDOT and state safety standards and be fastened with the helmet straps. Any motor vehicle operator, including motorcyclists, requires a legible thumb or fingerprint for original or renewal applications.

Colorado Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Colorado, motorcycle helmet laws apply specifically to riders and passengers under the age of 18. These individuals are required to wear helmets that meet or exceed the standards set by the USDOT for motorcycle helmets. It's mandatory for the chin strap to be fastened whenever the motorcycle is moving.

The state also mandates that all motorcycle operators and passengers, regardless of age, wear protective eyewear. This eyewear must have lenses made of either safety glass or plastic. However, if a rider or passenger is wearing a helmet that includes built-in eye protection, they are exempt from this separate eyewear requirement.

Connecticut

In Connecticut, motorcycle helmet laws mandate that all riders and passengers under the age of 18 must wear protective headgear while operating or riding on a motorcycle.

Additionally, the law extends to individuals of any age who have been issued a motorcycle learner's permit. These permit holders are required to wear helmets that meet the safety standards set by either the USDOT or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) while operating a motorcycle.

Delaware Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Delaware, individuals under 19 must wear a safety helmet and eye protection approved by the Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security. Those 19 and older must have a helmet and eye protection in their possession while riding. As of September 1, 2023, new motorcycle endorsement holders are required to wear a helmet and eye protection for the first two years, regardless of age. Passengers must also wear a helmet and eye protection during this period.

Florida Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Florida mandates that all motorcycle operators and riders wear helmets. However, individuals 21 and older with an insurance policy providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits for motorcycle-related injuries are exempt. All riders, regardless of age, must wear eye protection. Those in enclosed sidecars are not subject to helmet or eye protection laws.

Georgia Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Georgia law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear helmets. Eye protection is also mandatory if the motorcycle lacks a windshield.

Hawaii Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Hawaii, drivers and passengers under 18 must wear a safety helmet with a chin strap. All riders must wear safety glasses or goggles if the motorcycle is not equipped with a windshield.

Idaho Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Idaho, drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets that meet or exceed the standards set by the Director of Motor Vehicles. This requirement does not apply to motorcycles operated or ridden on private property.

Illinois Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Illinois does not mandate helmets for motorcycle operators or passengers. However, drivers and riders must wear eye protection such as glasses or goggles unless their motorcycles have a shatter-resistant transparent shield.

Indiana Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Indiana, only drivers and passengers under 18 are required to wear helmets and protective eyewear or face shields.

Iowa Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Iowa does not have any motorcycle helmet laws. Riders can choose whether or not to wear protective gear. However, to take the motorcycle skills test, riders must wear a helmet, long pants, and shoes that completely cover their feet.

Kansas Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Kansas, motorcycle drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets and protective eyewear or face shields.

Kentucky Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Kentucky law requires all drivers and passengers under 21 to wear helmets. Helmets are also required for drivers with a motorcycle permit and those who have held their motorcycle license for less than one year. Permit holders are not allowed to have passengers. All riders must wear eye protection regardless of age.

Louisiana Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Louisiana, all motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets secured with a chin strap when the motorcycle is in motion.

Maine Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Maine law requires all passengers under 18 to wear helmets. Additionally, drivers with a permit or those licensed for less than one year must wear helmets. If these drivers have passengers, the passengers must also wear helmets.

Maryland Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Maryland, all drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets. Additionally, all drivers must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.

Massachusetts Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Massachusetts law mandates that all motorcycle drivers and passengers wear helmets, including those in sidecars. Drivers must also wear eyeglasses, goggles, or a protective face shield if the motorcycle lacks a windshield or screen.

Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Michigan, drivers and passengers under 21 must wear helmets. Drivers 21 and over can opt not to wear a helmet if they have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits and have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years or have completed an approved motorcycle safety course. Passengers over 21 can also forgo a helmet if they have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits insurance in addition to the operator's insurance.

Minnesota Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Minnesota law requires all drivers and passengers under 18 to wear helmets. All drivers with a permit, regardless of age, must wear helmets. Permit holders are not allowed to have passengers or drive on interstates at night. Additionally, all drivers must wear eye protection.

Mississippi Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Mississippi law mandates that all drivers and passengers wear helmets.

Missouri Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Missouri's universal helmet law was repealed in 2020. Drivers under 26 or those with an instructional permit must wear helmets. Drivers over 26 who choose not to wear a helmet must have health insurance coverage. All passengers are required to wear helmets.

Montana Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Montana, drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets that meet the standards of the state's Department of Justice.

Nebraska Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Starting January 1, 2024, Nebraska no longer requires riders 21 and older to wear helmets. Riders who forgo helmets must be certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation as having taken the Basic Rider course or a similar course approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. All riders must wear protective eyewear that covers the orbital region of the face. Riders and passengers 20 and younger must wear helmets.

Nevada Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Nevada, all motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets and protective eyewear. If the motorcycle has a windscreen, the eyewear requirement is waived.

New Hampshire Motorcycle Helmet Laws

New Hampshire does not have any motorcycle helmet laws. Riders and passengers can choose whether or not to wear protective gear. However, individuals under 18 must wear protective headgear with a neck or chin strap.

New Jersey Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In New Jersey, all drivers and passengers must wear helmets that meet safety standards set by the Director of Motor Vehicles. Helmets must have a neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides. Protective eyewear is also required for all motorcycle drivers.

New Mexico Motorcycle Helmet Laws

New Mexico law requires drivers and passengers under 18 to wear helmets. Only helmets meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 218 are approved for use in New Mexico.

New York Motorcycle Helmet Laws

New York law mandates that all drivers and passengers wear helmets. Additionally, all motorcycle drivers must wear goggles or a face shield. New York was the first state to require all motorcyclists to wear helmets, effective January 1, 1967.

North Carolina Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In North Carolina, all motorcycle and moped drivers and passengers must wear helmets with chin straps secured.

North Dakota Motorcycle Helmet Laws

North Dakota law requires all drivers and passengers under 18 to wear helmets. Passengers under 18 must wear helmets regardless of the driver's age.

Ohio Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Ohio, drivers under 18 and those with a "novice license" must wear helmets. A "novice license" is issued to operators 18 or older who have never been licensed to operate a motorcycle in Ohio or any other jurisdiction recognized by Ohio law. All passengers under 18 and passengers riding with novice license holders must wear helmets. All drivers and passengers must wear safety glasses or other eye protection at all times.

Oklahoma Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Oklahoma law mandates that drivers and passengers under 18 wear helmets. Helmets must have lining, padding, and chin straps, and not distort the driver's view. All drivers must wear goggles or a face shield unless the motorcycle has a windshield of sufficient quality, size, and thickness to protect the driver from foreign objects. Drivers 17 and under must take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course to obtain a motorcycle endorsement.

Oregon Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Oregon, all motorcycle, moped, or unenclosed autocycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets with stickers indicating compliance with USDOT standards. Riders seeking a motorcycle endorsement without a valid endorsement from another state must complete an approved motorcycle rider education course.

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Pennsylvania repealed its mandatory helmet law in 2003. Drivers over 21 who have held their license for two years or completed a motorcycle rider safety course are not required to wear helmets. Passengers over 21 can ride without helmets unless the driver is required to wear one. Passengers riding with a driver holding a learner's permit must wear helmets, regardless of age. All drivers and passengers under 21 must wear helmets, and everyone must wear eye protection.

Rhode Island Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Rhode Island law requires drivers under 21 to wear helmets. All new drivers, regardless of age, must wear helmets for one year after receiving their motorcycle license. All drivers must wear eye protection at all times. All motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.

South Carolina Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In South Carolina, drivers and passengers under 21 must wear helmets approved by the Department of Public Safety. Helmets must have a neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides. All drivers must wear approved goggles or a face shield unless the motorcycle has a windscreen meeting Department of Public Safety specifications.

South Dakota Motorcycle Helmet Laws

South Dakota law requires drivers and passengers under 18 to wear helmets that comply with federal regulations. All drivers must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windshield of sufficient height.

Tennessee Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Tennessee, all drivers and passengers must wear crash helmets. Drivers and passengers 21 and older can wear any helmet that meets federal motor vehicle safety standards and has ventilation airways exceeding 1.5 inches in diameter. Helmets must have a label indicating compliance with the American Society for Testing Materials, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Southern Impact Research Center, or the Snell Foundation.

Texas Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Texas law generally requires all drivers and passengers to wear helmets. Helmets must meet the safety standards of the Department of Public Safety. However, individuals 21 and older who have completed an approved motorcycle operator training and safety course or have health insurance providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits for motorcycle-related injuries can ride without a helmet.

Utah Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Utah, drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets that comply with USDOT standards.

Vermont Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Vermont law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear helmets approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles. Helmets must have a neck or chin strap.

Virginia Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Virginia, all drivers and passengers must wear helmets that meet or exceed the specifications of the Snell Memorial Foundation, the American National Standards Institute, or the USDOT. Drivers must also wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has safety glass or a windshield approved by the Superintendent of the Department of Motor Vehicles or meeting the standards of Snell, ANSI, or USDOT.

Washington Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Washington law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear helmets equipped with a neck or chin strap, which must be fastened securely when the motorcycle is in motion. Drivers must also wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windshield.

Washington, D.C. Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Washington, D.C. law mandates that all motorcycle drivers and passengers wear helmets approved by the Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles or meeting the ANSI Specifications for Protective Headgear for Vehicle Users, Standard Z90.1-1966. Helmets must have permanent, weather-proof reflectors on each side covering at least four inches. Helmets must also have a neck or chin strap and permit unobstructed peripheral vision to 120 degrees on each side, as well as unobstructed hearing. All drivers must wear goggles or a face shield unless the motorcycle has a windscreen or the operator wears eyeglasses with safety glass lenses.

West Virginia Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In West Virginia, all motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets securely fastened by a neck or chin strap. Helmets must be designed to deflect blows, resist penetration, and spread impact forces. They must meet current performance specifications established by federal law, the ANSI Standard Z 90.1, or Snell Safety Standards for Protective Headgear for Vehicle Users. Additionally, all riders and passengers must wear safety, shatter-resistant eyeglasses, eye goggles, or a face shield that complies with ANSI Standard Z2.1. If the motorcycle has a windshield or windscreen, it must meet the performance specifications of USDOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205 and ANSI Safety Glazing Materials for Glazing Motor Vehicles on Land Highways, Standard Z26.1.

Wisconsin Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Wisconsin law requires drivers and passengers under 18 to wear helmets with a chin strap. Drivers with an instructional permit must also wear helmets, regardless of age. All drivers must wear a protective face shield, glasses, or goggles unless the motorcycle’s windshield rises at least 15 inches above the handlebars.

Wyoming Motorcycle Helmet Laws

In Wyoming, drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets that are securely fastened and comply with the standards set by the state's Superintendent of the Department of Transportation.

As you can see, each state has their own unique set of motorcycle helmet laws. If you use your bike as a daily driver, you’ll likely just need to know the laws of your home state. But if you have a road trip coming up, it’s in your best interest to check the laws of every state you’ll pass through so as to avoid any incidents with law enforcement. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you mount a GoPro on your motorcycle helmet? 

Yes, you can mount a GoPro on your motorcycle helmet, either on the top, side, or the chin guard of the helmet. However, each state has its own rules about mounting cameras to helmets, so be sure to check to avoid any fines or penalties.

Which US states do not require motorcycle helmets?

Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire do not require motorcycle helmets for any riders.

Is a helmet mandatory for a motorcycle in the USA?

A helmet is not universally mandatory for motorcyclists in the USA, as laws vary by state.

When did motorcycle helmets become law in the USA?

New York was the first state to require motorcycle helmets in 1967, but implementation across other states varied over time, with some states not requiring the use of a motorcycle helmet at all.

Is it illegal to ride a bike without a helmet in the USA?

It is not illegal to ride a bicycle without a helmet in most of the USA, as bicycle helmet laws typically only apply to minors and vary by state or local jurisdiction.