Motorcycle helmets: the law

You must wear a safety helmet that meets British safety standards when riding a motorcycle or moped on the road.

Safety helmet standards

All helmets worn on UK roads must meet one of the following:

  • British Standard BS 6658:1985 and carry the BSI Kitemark
  • UNECE Regulation 22.05
  • a European Economic Area member standard offering at least the same safety and protection as BS 6658:1985, and carry a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark

SHARP - the helmet safety scheme

The Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) shows you approved helmets and how much protection they offer.

Visors and goggles

If you ride with a visor or goggles they must either:

  • meet a British Standard and display a BSI Kitemark
  • meet a European standard offering at least the same safety and protection as the British Standard and carry a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark (UNECE Regulation 22.05)

Protective motorcycle clothing

There’s no law about wearing other protective clothing, but specialised motorcycle gear is highly recommended - it could save your life.

Related content