Last Updated 10th of May, 2010

What is the helmet law for riding motorcycles in North Carolina? North Carolina

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North Carolina Helmet Laws

As of January 1, 2008, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear helmets that complies with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. This law was passed after statistics revealed that motorcycle riders represented 10% of all fatalities on North Carolina roads, even though motorcycles made up only 2% of all registered vehicles in the state.

Although some states have safety laws that allow residents to be exempt from wearing a helmet if they meet age or insurance requirements, the NC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) makes no exceptions in its helmet laws. In fact, the law also applies to people riding mopeds and scooters.

Buying a Proper Helmet

Buying a motorcycle helmet can be tricky, because many manufacturers sell novelty type helmets that don't provide the protection you need to stay safe.

A proper helmet will have a firm inner liner of polystyrene foam that is about one-inch thick, a DOT sticker permanently installed on the back of the helmet, and a manufacturer's label either sewn or glued into the helmet with information about its construction and proper care.

Other Protective Gear

In addition to wearing a helmet, you can keep yourself safe while motorcycle riding by making sure you have the following protective gear:

  • Long pants
  • Long sleeved shirt
  • Full fingered gloves
  • Over the ankle boots
  • Eye protection
Ideally, clothing should be bright colored and be made of some sort of reflective material to help keep you visible to other motorists while you're on the road.

Note that these suggestions aren’t just for motorcycle safety; they’re also beneficial if you’re riding a moped or scooter. IMPORTANT NOTICE OF CHANGES TO

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