The Motorcycle Helmet
Fla. Stat. 316.211 — headgear unless over 21 with $10,000 in medical coverage
In Florida, a person may not operate or ride on a motorcycle without properly wearing protective headgear, securely fastened, that complies with Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218.
Over 21, with insurance. A person over 21 years of age may operate or ride without headgear if covered by an insurance policy providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries from a motorcycle crash. An operator must still wear an approved eye-protective device.
A noncriminal infraction. A violation of the section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation. Each motorcycle registered to a person under 21 years of age displays a license plate unique in design and color.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionFlorida has no helmet law | What the law actually doesHeadgear is required unless the rider is over 21 and has the coverage |
| The assumptionGoing without a helmet is a crime | What the law actually doesA noncriminal traffic infraction, as a nonmoving violation |
Licensing, endorsement and equipment rules for motorcycles, and the separate rules for mopeds and electric bicycles, are not on this page. Whether a particular helmet meets the standard, or an exception applies to a particular rider, is a question for a licensed Florida attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Fla. Stat. 316.211 — Equipment for motorcycle and moped riders
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Florida attorney.