Helmets and protective gear
A helmet is the single most important piece of gear a rider owns. NHTSA estimates that helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing rider deaths in crashes.
There is no single national helmet law. Each state decides who must wear one, so the rules range from all riders to no law at all. Good jackets, gloves, pants and boots matter too, because riders have no metal shell around them.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can explain the three types of state helmet law.
- You can recognize a helmet that meets the federal DOT standard.
- You can choose a helmet that fits correctly.
- You can pick protective clothing that is both protective and visible.
What you need to know and understand
- Helmet laws are set by each state, not by the federal government.
- According to IIHS, 17 states plus the District of Columbia require helmets for all riders.
- Most other states require helmets only for some riders, usually younger riders.
- IIHS lists Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire as having no motorcycle helmet law.
- Helmets sold for road use must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, shown by a DOT label.
- Many states require eye protection when the motorcycle has no windshield; this varies by state.
- Even where the law does not require a helmet, wearing one greatly reduces head injury risk.
Three kinds of helmet law
When you ride across state lines, the law of the state you are in applies. Wearing a helmet every time keeps you legal everywhere.
- Universal: every rider and passenger must wear a helmet. Examples include California, New York and Washington.
- Partial: only some riders must wear one, often those under 18 or 21, or new riders. Rules vary by state.
- No law: adults may choose. Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire are in this group.
Choosing and fitting a helmet
A full-face helmet gives the most protection because it covers the chin and face.
- Look for the DOT label on the back and a sticker inside showing the maker and model.
- Be wary of very light helmets with thin padding or bolts sticking out of the shell; these are signs of novelty helmets that may not meet the standard.
- Try the helmet on: it should feel snug all round with no pressure points.
- Fasten the strap and try to roll the helmet off forward; it should not come off.
- Replace any helmet that has taken a hard impact, even if it looks fine.
Gear from head to toe
- Eye protection: a face shield or shatter-resistant goggles, not ordinary sunglasses alone.
- Jacket and pants: abrasion-resistant material such as leather or heavy synthetic textile, ideally with armor.
- Gloves: full-fingered motorcycle gloves for grip and protection.
- Boots: over the ankle, with low heels and non-slip soles.
- Visibility: bright colors and reflective panels help drivers see you.
Common mistakes
- Buying a novelty helmet: check for the DOT label and solid construction.
- Riding in shorts and sneakers on a short trip: most crashes happen on ordinary trips, so gear up every time.
- Assuming your home state's law applies everywhere: the law where you ride applies.
- Leaving the chin strap loose: fasten it every ride.
Test yourself: Helmets and protective gear
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: IIHS Motorcycle helmet laws table (iihs.org); NHTSA motorcycle helmet effectiveness research (nhtsa.gov); Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, motorcycle helmets (NHTSA); California Motorcycle Handbook (dmv.ca.gov). Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your state DMV.