Are Dirt Bike Helmets Street Legal? Learn What Laws Apply To Your Ride

Dirt bike helmets are often thought of as only for off-road use, but many jurisdictions now allow dirt bike helmets to be worn on the street. This is mainly because dirt bike helmets meet motorcycle helmet safety standards.

However, a few considerations need to be taken into account when wearing a dirt bike helmet on the street. First and foremost, always wear a helmet that meets applicable safety standards.

What is a dirt bike helmet, and what are its street legality implications?

Dirt bike helmets have come a long way in recent years. While they were traditionally seen only for off-road riding, more and more dirt bike helmet manufacturers are starting to produce models that are street legal. This means that riders can use them on public roads, which has some legal implications.

For starters, dirt bike helmets aren’t required by law in most states. So if you’re wearing one and get pulled over, the officer may not take it seriously.

Additionally, many states have laws prohibiting motorcycle helmets while riding a dirt bike. You could be subject to fines and even jail time if caught violating this law.

So if you’re considering using a dirt bike helmet on the street, make sure you know the laws in your state first.

Check Also: Rationale Behind Having a Motorcycle Helmet Law.

What is the difference between a dirt bike helmet and a street bike helmet?

Size & Design

Street bikes tend to be smaller and lighter than dirt bikes. Dirt bike helmets are usually larger and heavier than street bike helmets. Dirt bike helmets also tend to be thicker materials like ABS plastic and polycarbonate. These materials are stronger and more durable than the thinner plastics used in street bike helmets.

Sizes

Most dirt bike helmets range from 5 1/8 inches to 7 3/8 inches tall. Street bike helmets are generally around 6 1/2 inches tall.

Weight

Street bike helmets weigh approximately 2 pounds. Dirt bike helmets can weigh upwards of 4 pounds.

Protection

Street bike helmets provide excellent protection for riders. Dirt bike helmets typically offer less protection due to their size and weight. However, dirt bike helmets still offer adequate protection for dirt bike riding.

Durability

Dirt bike helmets are usually much sturdier and longer lasting than street bike helmets. Street bike helmets may last only a couple of years before wearing out.

Features

Street bike helmets feature integrated visors. Dirt bike helmets usually lack these features.

Cost

Street bike helmets cost $20-$50. Dirt bike helmets can cost from $60 -$100.

Are Dirt Bike helmets good for street riding?

Street riding is a popular pastime, and Dirt Bike helmets are often used in this activity. Some Dirt Bike riders believe that Dirt Bike helmets are not good for street riding because they do not provide adequate protection.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Many experts believe that Dirt Bike helmets can be effective when used correctly.

Dirt Bike Helmets and State Law: What states allow dirt bike helmets and require them?

There is a lot of confusion surrounding helmet laws and dirt bike helmets. In most states, dirt bike helmets are not required by law, but many riders choose to wear them anyway because they feel safer. There are a few exceptions to this rule, however.

The State of California requires all riders under 18 to wear a motorcycle helmet when riding a dirt bike, regardless of whether or not the state says it’s necessary. This is because motorcycles are considered vehicles with a Class C license and can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour.

Similarly, in Florida, all riders under 21 must wear a helmet when riding any motorcycle, regardless of whether or not the state deems it necessary.

Check Also: Can You Wear Motocross Helmets On The Road?

Dirt Bike Helmets and Federal Law: What federal laws protect riders wearing dirt bike helmets?

When protecting riders on dirt bikes, many states have stricter helmet laws than the federal government. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is responsible for enforcing specific safety regulations on all types of vehicles.

However, one exception is that dirt bike riders’ helmets are not subject to NHTSA regulation. This means that state helmet laws may be more protective than federal law.

Federal law does not mandate the use of a helmet when riding a dirt bike, but it does require that all drivers wear a seat belt.

For the government to take action against someone who violates this law, they must prove that the person was not wearing a seat belt and that their injury was caused as a result.

Are Dirt Bike Helmets Road Legal in the United States?

Dirt bike helmets are not regulated by the US Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) like motorcycle helmets are. So, while there may not be a definitive answer as to whether or not dirt bike helmets are legal on US roads, most experts seem to believe that they are not.

One reason dirt bike helmets may not be considered road legal is that their construction does not meet ASTM F1663-10 safety standards for motorcycle helmets.

In most states where dirt bike riding is sanctioned, only full-face or open-face helmets meeting these same safety standards will be allowed. This means that many dirt bike riders opt for less protective gear, including no helmet.

Despite this lack of regulation, it’s important to note that there have been no confirmed cases of injury attributable to wearing a dirt bike helmet while riding.

What are the Legal Requirements for a Dirt Bike Helmet?

A dirt bike helmet is essential for personal safety and your motorcycle’s protection. This article will outline the legal requirements for dirt bike helmets to help ensure that you are wearing a properly fitted helmet.

Dirt bike helmets must meet specific safety standards to be sold in the United States. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218, also known as the “Dirt Bike Helmet Standard,” sets forth specific requirements for dirt bike helmets.

The FMVSS 218 requires that all motorcycle helmets sold in the U.S. meet the following minimum criteria:

• Be tested at least once per ASTM F1492 standard;
• Meets or exceeds DOT safety standards; and
• Meet or exceed ANSI/NOCSAE Z87.1-2002 impact performance standard.

Are Dirt Bike Helmets Necessary?

Dirt bike helmets are not mandatory in most states but can offer some safety benefits. Many riders wear them anyway because of the potential for reduced head injuries.

Dirt bike helmets do not offer the same level of protection as full-face motorcycle helmets, but they can help reduce the severity of impacts to the head.

Riders should consult their state motorcycle helmet laws to determine if dirt bike helmets are required.

How to Make Your Dirt Bike Helmet Street Legal?

Dirt bike helmets are becoming increasingly popular among riders. They protect from head injuries and reduce the risk of facial lacerations. However, some states require dirt bikes to have street-legal helmets. Here’s a guide to making your helmet street legal.

 1. Check State Laws

 Checking state laws regarding helmet requirements is the first step towards making your helmet street legal in all 50 states. For instance, California requires all riders under 18 years old to wear a DOT-certified helmet. On the other hand, North Carolina does not require anyone riding a motorcycle to wear a helmet.

 2. Buy a Certified Helmets

 A certified helmet is another way to ensure that your helmet meets safety standards. To find out which certification a helmet has received, look for the following symbols: CE, ECE 22.05, Snell M2010, etc.

 3. Test Fit

 Before purchasing a helmet, test fit it on your head. Wear it for several hours and ensure it fits well and doesn’t move around too much. Also, ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your ears and neck.

 4. Inspect the Exterior

 Make sure that the strap is tight and secure. Look for cracks and dents on the exterior shell. Don’t forget to inspect the visors and straps.

 5. Inspect the Interior

 Look inside the helmet for damage and signs of tampering. Check the padding, liner, and ear pads. Are they clean? Do they feel comfortable? Is there anything loose or missing?

 6. Clean the Lining

 Clean the lining after every ride. Use a damp cloth to wipe away dust and debris.

 7. Remove Decals

 Remove decals before washing the helmet. Washing removes protective layers of paint and lacquer that protect the helmet.

Frequently Asked Question

Conclusion

In conclusion, while dirt bike helmets may be street legal in some states, they are not recommended for use on public roads. If you must use a dirt bike helmet while riding on public roads, wear a DOT-approved helmet and follow all safety guidelines.