When you ride a motorcycle, the open road can feel like freedom at its best. But before rolling out of the driveway, you need to know the rules that can change the second you cross a state line. In the United States, there is no single national law that forces riders to wear helmets. Instead, every state makes its own rules.
That is why a biker who rides without a helmet in Iowa can do so legally, but the same choice in New York will bring a ticket. Lawmakers divide their helmet rules into three categories.
Some states have universal laws, which means every rider and every passenger must wear a helmet every time.
Other states have partial laws, usually covering younger riders, first-year license holders, or people without extra insurance.
Then there are no-helmet-law states, a small group where helmets are optional for everyone, regardless of age or road conditions. For riders planning a trip across the country, the mix can be confusing. A helmet may be optional in one state but required just a mile down the road in another.
That is why this guide lays out the 2025 motorcycle helmet laws by state, showing where helmets are mandatory, where exceptions apply, and what extra gear, like goggles or windscreens, you may need.
Key Takeaways
- 3 states (Illinois, Iowa, New Hampshire) have no helmet laws.
- 19 states plus D.C. have universal laws covering every rider and passenger.
- 28 states have partial laws with age limits, insurance or training exemptions, and rules for new riders.
- Eye protection rules exist in many states, even where helmets are not mandatory.
States with Universal Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Some states leave no room for confusion. If you are on a motorcycle, driver or passenger, you must wear a helmet. These are called universal helmet laws, and they apply to everyone on the road.
Universal Helmet Law States in 2025
| State | Law Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | All riders and passengers | – |
| California | All riders and passengers | – |
| District of Columbia | All riders and passengers | – |
| Georgia | All riders and passengers | Mopeds excluded if ≤50cc, ≤2 bhp, ≤30 mph |
| Louisiana | All riders and passengers | – |
| Maryland | All riders and passengers | – |
| Massachusetts | All riders and passengers | – |
| Mississippi | All riders and passengers | – |
| Nevada | All riders and passengers | – |
| New Jersey | All riders and passengers | The helmet must have a chin strap |
| New York | All riders and passengers | Class C low-speed motorcycles ≤20 mph excluded |
| North Carolina | All riders and passengers | – |
| Oregon | All riders and passengers | – |
| Tennessee | All riders and passengers | – |
| Vermont | All riders and passengers | Motor-driven cycles ≤50cc, ≤2 bhp, ≤30 mph excluded |
| Virginia | All riders and passengers | – |
| Washington | All riders and passengers | – |
| West Virginia | All riders and passengers | – |
Universal laws save lives. Studies show riders in states with these rules have lower head injury and fatality rates. By making helmet use automatic, states remove the guesswork and reduce debates about age or license level.
Exceptions for Small Vehicles
A few universal states carve out room for very small machines. Georgia, New York, and Vermont exempt mopeds or low-speed cycles under strict size and speed limits. If your bike can go highway speeds, you are covered. If it is a small neighborhood scooter, check the fine print.
Advice for Riders Crossing Borders
When planning a road trip, treat universal states as straightforward. Always wear a helmet, and make sure passengers do too. Even if you came from a state with looser rules, one stop by a local officer will remind you that universal means everyone, every ride.
States with Partial or Age-Based Helmet Laws
Most states fall into the middle ground. They require helmets for younger riders, permit holders, or passengers, but allow older or more experienced riders to make their own choice. These are called partial laws, and they vary widely from state to state.
Partial Helmet Law States in 2025
| State | Age / Group Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 25 and younger, all permit holders | Riders 26+ exempt with proof of financial responsibility; motorized bicycles ≤50cc excluded |
| Nebraska | 20 and younger | Adults 21+ exempt with safety course certificate |
| Arkansas | 20 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Florida | 20 and younger | 21+ exempt with medical insurance; mopeds ≤50cc excluded if rider ≥16 |
| Kentucky | 20 and younger, permit holders | Mopeds ≤50cc excluded |
| Michigan | 20 and younger | 21+ exempt with insurance + course or 2 years endorsement; mopeds ≤50cc excluded if rider ≥19 |
| Pennsylvania | 20 and younger; new licensees (2 years) | Exemption if safety course completed |
| Rhode Island | 20 and younger; all passengers; new licensees (1 year) | All passengers must wear helmets regardless of age |
| South Carolina | 20 and younger | Three-wheel vehicles with sidecars excluded |
| Texas | 20 and younger | 21+ exempt with insurance or course proof; no stops just to check |
| Utah | 20 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Delaware | 18 and younger; novice riders (2 years) | Riders ≥19 must carry a helmet; mopeds excluded if ≤55cc or 751-2000 watts electric |
| Alaska | 17 and younger; all passengers; permit holders | All vehicles covered |
| Arizona | 17 and younger | Mopeds ≤50cc excluded |
| Colorado | 17 and younger, including passengers | All vehicles covered |
| Connecticut | 17 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Hawaii | 17 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Idaho | 17 and younger | Mopeds ≤50cc excluded |
| Indiana | 17 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Kansas | 17 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Maine | 17 and younger; permit holders; first year licensees | Motorized bicycles ≤1.5 bhp, ≤25 mph excluded |
| Minnesota | 17 and younger; permit holders | All vehicles covered |
| Montana | 17 and younger | Mopeds ≤2 bhp, ≤30 mph excluded |
| New Mexico | 17 and younger | Mopeds <50cc, ≤30 mph excluded |
| North Dakota | 17 and younger; all passengers with covered operators | All vehicles covered |
| Ohio | 17 and younger; first year licensees; all passengers with them | All vehicles covered |
| Oklahoma | 17 and younger | Motor-driven cycles 35-150cc covered; mopeds ≤50cc excluded |
| South Dakota | 17 and younger | All vehicles covered |
| Wisconsin | 17 and younger; permit holders | Mopeds ≤130cc, ≤30 mph, with pedals excluded |
| Wyoming | 17 and younger | Mopeds ≤50cc, ≤2 bhp, ≤30 mph excluded |
Partial laws mostly focus on protecting young riders or those just starting out. The thinking is simple: younger and newer riders face higher crash risks, so helmets are required until they gain more experience.
Insurance and Training Loopholes
Florida, Michigan, Texas, Missouri, and Nebraska all give adult riders ways to skip helmets if they meet strict requirements. That might mean carrying extra insurance, finishing a safety course, or showing proof of financial responsibility.
Riders who travel should carry documents at all times, because an officer can ask for proof if you claim the exemption.
Passengers and Permit Holders
Partial laws often extend beyond the driver. In many states, if the operator is under the helmet rule, then all passengers must wear helmets too.
Some states also make helmets mandatory for anyone on a permit or in their first year of licensure, regardless of age.
Travel Advice for Partial Law States
If you are moving between several states, partial laws can be tricky. Age thresholds change, sometimes it is 17, 20, or even 25. The safest plan is to wear a helmet anyway.
That way, you do not need to memorize every cutoff, and you will always be legal.
States with No Motorcycle Helmet Law
Only a handful of states leave helmet use completely up to the rider. In these places, no law requires you to wear a helmet, no matter your age or license status. Even so, many bikers still choose helmets for safety.
No Helmet Law States in 2025
| State | Helmet Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | No law | Helmets optional for all riders and passengers |
| Iowa | No law | Helmets optional for all riders and passengers |
| New Hampshire | No law | Helmets optional for all riders and passengers |
Illinois repealed its universal helmet law back in 1970. Iowa followed in 1976, and New Hampshire never passed one at all. Supporters of repeal argued for personal freedom and choice, while safety advocates pushed back with concerns about higher injury and fatality rates. The debate continues today.
Risks of Riding Without a Helmet
Medical studies show that head injuries are far more likely in states without helmet laws. Riders face higher medical costs, longer recoveries, and increased risk of permanent disability.
Insurance companies also take note; some will raise rates or limit coverage for riders who crash without a helmet.
Age Limits and Helmet Law Variations
Partial laws across the country focus on age. Some states set the bar as high as 25, while others stop at 17. Knowing the exact cutoff matters because one state may let you ride free at 20, while the next state over still requires a helmet.
Age Thresholds for Helmet Laws in 2025
| Age Cutoff | States | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 25 and younger | Missouri | Includes all permit holders. People over 26 are exempt with proof of financial responsibility. |
| 20 and younger | Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah | Florida and Michigan allow exemptions with insurance or training. Nebraska allows exemptions with a safety course certificate. |
| 18 and younger | Delaware | Also covers novice riders and passengers for two years after endorsement. Riders over 19 must carry a helmet even if not worn. |
| 17 and younger | Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Wyoming | Several of these states also apply rules to permit holders, new licensees, or passengers. |
Lawmakers choose different cutoffs based on crash data, insurance lobbying, and political debates. Missouri stands out with the highest bar at 25. Delaware lands in the middle at 18. Most other states draw the line at 17 or 20.
In many states, if the operator falls under an age rule, every passenger must wear a helmet, too. That means even if your passenger is older, they still need a helmet if the driver is young or inexperienced. Rhode Island, Delaware, and North Dakota are prime examples.
Age is not the only trigger. A new rider with a permit or a first-year license often has to wear a helmet regardless of age. That ensures people with less time on the road get maximum protection while learning.
Insurance Proof and Training Exceptions
Some states give adult riders a choice. If you carry the right insurance, complete a safety course, or meet other conditions, you can ride without a helmet. But the rules are strict, and proof must be available if an officer asks.
States with Insurance or Training Exemptions in 2025
| State | Exemption Rule | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | 21+ may ride without a helmet if covered by medical insurance | Mopeds ≤50cc excluded if rider is 16+ |
| Michigan | 21+ may ride without a helmet with extra insurance and a safety course or 2 years of endorsement | Passengers must also be 21+ and insured |
| Texas | 21+ may ride without a helmet with proof of insurance or safety course completion | Officers cannot stop riders solely to check compliance |
| Missouri | 26+ may ride without a helmet with proof of financial responsibility | All permit holders must wear helmets regardless of age |
| Nebraska | 21+ may ride without a helmet if they complete an approved safety course and provide proof to DMV | Law updated January 2024 |
These rules were compromises between safety advocates and riders who argued for more freedom. Lawmakers tried to balance choice with protection by requiring insurance or training.
The idea is that if you take on more risk, you also take on more responsibility.
- In Florida and Michigan, that means paperwork showing you hold the right insurance policy.
- In Texas and Missouri, it can be an insurance card or proof of training.
- In Nebraska, it is a course certificate filed with the DMV. If you cannot show it, you are breaking the law.
Eye Protection and Safety Gear Requirements
Helmet laws get the most attention, but many states also have rules about goggles, face shields, or windscreens. Even in states with no helmet law, riders often must wear protective eyewear. These rules aim to prevent debris, bugs, and wind from impairing vision on the road.
States with Eye Protection Rules
| State | Requirement | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Helmets must have reflectors; no helmet speakers allowed | – |
| Arizona | Goggles, glasses, or face shield required | – |
| Connecticut | Safety goggles, helmet shield, or safety shield | – |
| Delaware | Riders under 19 must also have eye protection | – |
| Florida | Eye protection approved by DMV required | – |
| Georgia | Must use windshield or eye protection | – |
| Hawaii | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| Illinois | Glasses, goggles, or a shield required (even with no helmet law) | – |
| Indiana | Eye protection required for riders under 18 | – |
| Kansas | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| Louisiana | Windscreen or protective eye gear | – |
| Maryland | Windscreen or protective eye gear; must allow 105° field of vision | – |
| Massachusetts | Windscreen or goggles required, except in parades | – |
| Minnesota | Protective eye gear required | – |
| Nebraska | Helmet must be secured with chin strap | Eye protection covered by helmet |
| Nevada | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| New Hampshire | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| New Jersey | Helmet strap required | Eye protection included with helmet |
| New York | Face shield or goggles required | – |
| Ohio | Protective eye gear required | – |
| Oklahoma | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| Pennsylvania | Protective eye gear required | – |
| Rhode Island | Protective eye gear required | – |
| South Carolina | Face shield or goggles required | – |
| South Dakota | Protective eye gear required; cannot be tinted or shaded | – |
| Tennessee | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| Vermont | Protective eye gear required | – |
| Virginia | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| West Virginia | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
| Wisconsin | Glasses, face shield, windscreen, or goggles | – |
Even if your head is safe, your eyes can still be hit by rocks, sand, or insects at high speed. Losing vision for even a second can cause a crash. That is why many states write separate eye protection rules, especially for riders who choose not to wear full helmets.
Some states have quirky add-ons. Maryland requires gear that allows a 105-degree field of vision. South Dakota bans tinted or shaded visors for young riders. Alaska adds reflectors on helmets and bans helmet speakers.
The easiest way to comply is to use a helmet with a face shield. That covers both helmet and eye protection rules in almost every state.
Riding Across States with Different Helmet Laws
When you cross state lines on a motorcycle, the law changes fast. One state may let you ride bareheaded, the next one demands a helmet for everyone, and another draws the line at a certain age. Riders who do not pay attention risk tickets or worse.
Examples of How the Rules Change
| Route | State 1 Rule | State 2 Rule | What You Must Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire → Vermont | No helmet law | Universal helmet law | Put on a helmet the moment you enter Vermont. |
| Iowa → Missouri | No helmet law | Helmets required for riders 25 and under | Riders 25 and younger must stop and gear up. |
| Florida → Georgia | Helmets required under 21; adults exempt with insurance | Universal helmet law | Everyone must wear a helmet in Georgia. No exceptions. |
| Texas → New Mexico | Helmets required under 21; adults exempt with training or insurance | Helmets are required under 18 | A 19-year-old forced to wear a helmet in Texas can remove it in New Mexico. |
Surviving a Crash With a Helmet vs Without One
When a crash happens, the helmet makes the difference between injuries you can recover from and injuries that end everything. The data from recent studies proves it.
- Helmets lower the risk of head injury by about 69%.
- Helmets cut the chance of death by around 40%.
- States with helmet laws report fewer rider deaths and lower hospital costs.
- According to the EMS data, riders in states without helmet laws showed more severe head injuries compared to riders in states that enforce helmets.
With a Helmet
A helmet takes the impact first. It absorbs the blow and spreads out the force. That means more riders walk away with cuts, bruises, or broken bones instead of brain damage. Recovery is possible, hospital stays are shorter, and the long-term cost is lower.
Without a Helmet
The skull takes the full hit. That leads to brain injuries, coma, or death. Survivors often deal with permanent damage, memory loss, speech problems, or paralysis. Families take on heavy medical bills, and insurance rarely covers everything.
Bottom Line
Motorcycle helmet laws in the United States may look different in every state, but the risk of a crash is the same everywhere. Universal helmet law states demand protection for every rider, partial helmet law states set age limits and insurance loopholes, and a small handful of states have no motorcycle helmet law at all.
Across all of them, the evidence stays consistent: wearing a motorcycle helmet cuts the chance of death, lowers the risk of brain injury, and reduces the cost of medical bills after a crash.