Which helmet is not allowed?

A non-compliant helmet that extends further than 2/10” from the surface, has a spike or protruding decoration, or does not meet the U.S. DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218 is not allowed. This includes helmets with attachments such as GoPros that are longer than 5mm, as they can compromise the structural integrity of the helmet and make it non-compliant with safety standards.

Understanding Helmet Safety Standards

To ensure safety on the road, it is essential to understand the different types of helmets available and their compliance with safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. What are the different types of helmets?: The main types of helmets are Full Face, Open Face, Half Shell, Modular, Half-shell, Off-road, and Dual-sport helmets, each designed for specific riding styles and preferences.
2. Which states do not require a helmet?: New Hampshire, Illinois, and Iowa are the only states without motorcycle helmet laws, but riders must still comply with other states’ laws when crossing state lines.
3. What is the law regarding helmet attachments?: Attaching a GoPro or other camera to a helmet can make it non-compliant if it extends more than 5mm from the surface, but attaching it to the motorcycle itself is allowed if it does not interfere with vehicle controls.

Helmet Safety and Compliance

4. What makes a motorcycle helmet street legal?: A street-legal helmet must be certified by the manufacturer as complying with U.S. DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218.
5. Can I wear a helmet with a tinted visor?: During daylight hours, a tinted visor with up to 50% tint is allowed, but it must be marked “For daylight use only” and be free of smudges, scratches, or marks.
6. Are blacked out helmets legal?: Blacked out helmets are not explicitly illegal, but tinted visors must comply with daylight use regulations and not compromise the rider’s vision.

Helmet Maintenance and Replacement

7. Do motorcycle helmets expire?: Helmets should be replaced every five years or sooner if damaged, as they degrade over time, especially with frequent use.
8. How often should I replace my helmet?: The frequency of helmet replacement depends on usage, with daily riders needing to replace their helmets more often than occasional riders.

State-Specific Laws

9. Is Texas a no-helmet state?: Texas requires motorcyclists to wear helmets, but riders over 21 can exemptions if they complete an approved training course or have certain insurance coverage.
10. Is Florida a no-helmet state?: Florida requires motorcycle operators and riders to wear helmets that comply with Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218.

Additional FAQs

11. Can I travel with my helmet?: Helmets can be brought as carry-on baggage if they fit within the allowed size limits.
12. Can you put night vision on a helmet?: Night vision devices can be mounted on ballistic helmets or non-ballistic helmets for hands-free use.
13. Why is helmet-to-helmet contact illegal?: Helmet-to-helmet collisions are considered dangerous play and are penalized in most football leagues due to the risk of serious injury.
14. What is a Class A helmet?: Class A Helmets reduce the force of falling objects and protect against low-voltage electrical conductors, with certification requiring proof-testing at 2,200 volts.
15. At what age should a man stop riding a motorcycle?: There is no specific last age to retire from motorcycle riding, as people in their 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s can still ride safely, but it’s essential to consider physical abilities and health when deciding to continue riding.