In the United States, every street motorcycle helmet must meet DOT FMVSS 218, which manufacturers self-certify. ECE 22.06 is the European standard, required in Europe and many other countries, with independent batch testing and rotational and accessory tests. Snell is a voluntary, independent standard used widely in racing. A helmet can carry more than one. Replace any helmet after a crash or hard drop, and many makers suggest about every five years.
The label on the back of a helmet tells you what it has been tested to. Here is what each means.
The three standards
| DOT FMVSS 218 | ECE 22.06 | Snell | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where it applies | Required for US street use | Required in Europe and many other countries | Voluntary |
| Who certifies | Manufacturer self-certifies; NHTSA spot-checks | Approved test labs, with production sampling | Snell Memorial Foundation tests samples |
| Notable tests | Impact, penetration, retention | Multiple impact points and speeds, rotational impact, visor tests | High-energy impacts, popular for racing |
A helmet can carry more than one certification. Many premium helmets sold in the US are both DOT and ECE 22.06 certified.
Reading the labels
- DOT: a sticker on the back of the shell. Be wary of novelty helmets with fake stickers.
- ECE: a sewn-in label on the chin strap with an approval number that begins with 06 for 22.06.
- Snell: a sticker inside the helmet.
Off-road helmets
Motocross and dual-sport helmets follow the same standards. For dirt riding, pair the helmet with goggles that fit its eyeport.
When to replace
- After any crash, even if no damage is visible.
- After a hard drop onto a hard surface.
- When the liner is loose or the fit has changed.
- Around five years of regular use, as many makers advise.
Certification only protects you if the helmet fits. See how to size a helmet, and protect the rest of your body with CE-rated armor.
Browse helmets.
Common questions
Is an ECE helmet legal in the US?
On the street, a helmet must carry the DOT label in states that require helmets. Many helmets sold in the US carry both DOT and ECE 22.06.
Is Snell better than DOT?
Snell is a voluntary standard with its own independent testing. It is common in racing. A Snell helmet sold for US street use also carries DOT certification.
What changed with ECE 22.06?
It replaced ECE 22.05 and added more impact points and speeds, a rotational impact test and tests of visors and some accessories.
How often should I replace a motorcycle helmet?
After any crash or significant drop, and many helmet makers recommend about every five years because padding and liners degrade.