Texas Motorcycle Helmet and Safety Laws

The state's helmet laws require helmets for motorcycle riders 20 years old and younger; helmets are only recommended for Texas residents who are 21 years old or older, but there's a catch (see below). 

Motorcycle Helmet Law Exemption

Motorcyclists are encouraged to obtain a helmet that meets Department of Transportation (DOT) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) safety standards, but if they're 21 or older they can choose to obtain an exemption if desired.

Texas law requires residents who are at least 21 years of age to be able to provide proof of health insurance coverage in order to be exempt from the motorcycle safety helmet requirement. Health insurance plans are defined as group, individual, blanket, or franchise insurance policies, agreements, or contracts that provide benefits for any medical expenses that would occur as the result of a motorcycle riding accident.

Residents who wish to be exempt from the helmet requirement can also complete the TX Department of Public Safety (DPS) Basic Motorcycle Operator Training Course. However, police officers are not allowed to stop a motorcyclist for the sole purpose of determining whether these requirements for the helmet exemption have been meant.

Violating Texas motorcycle helmet laws is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of between $10 and $50. Please keep in mind that the provisions of the helmet law for motorcycles apply to some, but not all, mopeds and scooters. Contact your local DPS drivers license office for additional information if you ride a moped or scooter, as well as for motorcycle-related laws such as the state's minimum requirements for motorcycle insurance.