The Motorcycle Helmet
Veh. & Traf. Law § 381 — a helmet meeting the federal standard, for every rider
In New York, it is unlawful to operate or ride on a motorcycle without a protective helmet of a type that meets the federal motor vehicle safety standard for helmets.
Parades. The police authorities of a city, town or village may issue a permit exempting members of organizations conducting parades or other public exhibitions while they take part in them.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionPassengers can ride without one | What the law actually doesOperating or riding without a helmet is unlawful |
| The assumptionAny helmet sold for motorcycles qualifies | What the law actually doesIt has to meet the federal motor vehicle safety standard |
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 New York attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Veh. & Traf. Law § 381 — Motorcycle equipment
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed New York attorney.