--- title: "What Every Biker Needs to Know About Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws" url: https://callsam.com/blog/motorcycle-helmet-laws/ description: "Motorcycle helmets might legally be optional for some bikers, but Michigan motorcycle helmet laws are nuanced. Learn more here." lastModified: 2026-10-06 --- # What Every Biker Needs to Know About Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws Published: September 29, 2020 When the Michigan legislature repealed the mandatory motorcycle helmet law in 2012, it was big news for bikers across the state. However, not everyone is legally allowed to ride without a helmet, including passengers. Here’s what you need to know to ride safely and stay in legal compliance with Michigan motorcycle helmet laws. If you or someone you love are involved in a [motorcycle accident](https://callsam.com/case-types/motorcycle-accidents/), our experienced lawyers are here to help. Here is what you need to know about wearing a motorcycle helmet in Michigan. ## MICHIGAN MOTORCYCLE HELMET LAWS Michigan motorcyclists have the legal right to ride without a helmet, as long as they meet [certain requirements](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-257-658). ### Motorcycle Operators According to Michigan law, motorcycle operators may ride without a helmet if they: - Are at least 21 years old - Have a minimum of $20,000 in first-party medical benefits (Personal Injury Protection, or PIP) - Have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years, or have passed an approved motorcycle safety course ### Motorcycle Passengers Motorcycle passengers who wish to ride without a helmet must: - Be at least 21 years old - Have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits (Personal Injury Protection, or PIP) of their own ### Additional Michigan Helmet-Related Laws - Motorcycle operators and passengers under 21 years old must wear a helmet at all times - In addition, individuals younger than 19 must wear a helmet if operating a moped on a public roadway - Bluetooth helmets are permitted under Michigan motorcycle law - All helmets worn by Michigan motorcyclists of any age must be approved by Michigan State Police. ### U.S. Department of Transportation Standards For Motorcycle Helmets When searching for your next helmet, Michigan motorcyclists need to find a reputable source for DOT-standard helmets. Common aspects of DOT-compliant helmets include: - **Thick Inner Liner:** Helmets meeting the minimum Federal safety standard have an inner liner usually about one-inch thick of firm polystyrene foam. - **Sturdy Chin Strap and Rivets:** Helmets meeting the DOT safety standard have sturdy chin straps with solid rivets. - **Weight of Helmet:** Helmets meeting FMVSS 218 generally weigh about three pounds. These helmets provide a more substantial feel. - **Helmet Style and Design:** The DOT safety standard does not allow anything to extend further than two-tenths of an inch from the surface of a helmet. You’ll need to check for weight, thickness, sturdy chin straps, as well as the “DOT” and manufacturer’s labels. ### Eye Protection is Not Optional In Michigan, helmets may be optional but [eye protection](https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-257-708a) is required by law. To operate a motorcycle on a public highway at speeds of 35 mph or faster, motorcyclists must have at least one of the following: - A windshield large enough to protect occupants from insects, water, debris and other airborne objects - If there is no windshield, the operator must wear goggles with shatter-proof transparent lenses, a transparent face shield or eyeglasses Furthermore, motorcycle safety experts recommend additional protection even when the bike has a windshield. These include helmets with full-face coverage and energy-absorbing liners. ## FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MICHIGAN MOTORCYCLE HELMET LAWS ### Will my insurance rates be higher if I don’t wear a motorcycle helmet? Motorcyclists who choose to ride without a helmet must carry a minimum of $20,000 of first-party medical benefits (Personal Injury Protection, or PIP). In addition, passengers riding without helmets must also have at least $20,000 of their own medical coverage. ### What is the penalty for underage riders who are caught without wearing a motorcycle helmet? Motorcyclists under 21 who ride without a helmet may be ticketed and fined, depending on the circumstances. Because younger riders tend to be less experienced, it’s especially dangerous - and illegal - to ride without a helmet. ### What are the benefits of wearing a motorcycle helmet? Head injuries are the leading cause of death for motorcyclists who are involved in accidents. While most Michigan motorcyclists can choose to ride without a helmet, it’s not recommended. Here are a few reasons why bikers and passengers who wear helmets will enjoy safer and more comfortable rides: - Helmets can reduce the risk of serious head injuries - Riders who don’t wear helmets are less likely to suffer fatalities as a result of their head injuries - Helmets add comfort to the ride by reducing wind noise and windblast on the face and eyes - Wearing a helmet shows others on the road that you place a high priority on safety ## HELMET SAFETY TIPS FROM THE MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FOUNDATION Below are a [list of safety tips](https://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/helmet_CSi.pdf) concerning motorcycle helmets: - Replace a helmet immediately if it’s been worn in a crash or dropped on a hard surface - Replace helmets every few years for normal wear and tear - If you’re not sure whether your helmet is still safe, have it inspected by a reputable helmet shop - Buy your helmet from a knowledgeable dealer who will help you find the correct fit and style - Wear your helmet whenever you ride, even during short neighborhood trips - Clean the face shield frequently and replace if it becomes scratched - Keep your helmet securely fastened at all times so you’re ready for unexpected situations - Never operate a motorcycle after drinking alcohol or using drugs ## GET THE BERNSTEIN BIKER ADVANTAGE® Many of our lawyers and staff members ride motorcycles. Therefore, we understand first-hand the joy and the challenges that bikers experience. And, we take these cases personally because we know how devastating a motorcycle accident can be. Our entire legal team is well-versed in the complexities of motorcycle accident law. We know what it takes to win your case, and we are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Motorcycle accident law is complicated, but finding the right [Motorcycle accident attorney](https://callsam.com/case-types/motorcycle-accidents/) is simple. Click the button below to fill out a quick form or contact us today for a free, remote no-obligation consultation from the safety of your home. ## Related Posts ### [What Are the Michigan Laws for Mopeds, ORVs and Scooters?](https://callsam.com/blog/what-are-the-michigan-laws-for-mopeds-orvs-and-scooters/) ### [Spotlight on Speed: How Excessive Speeding Affects Michigan Motorcycle Accident Cases](https://callsam.com/blog/excessive-speeding-motorcycle-accident-cases/) ### [Innovative Technology Enhances Motorcycle Accident Safety: Smart Helmets, Wearable Airbags and More](https://callsam.com/blog/technology-enhances-motorcycle-accident-safety/) ### [Michigan ATV and Off-Road Vehicle Accidents: When to Call an Attorney](https://callsam.com/blog/michigan-atv-off-road-accidents/) ### [Is It Dangerous to Put Car Tires on Motorcycles?](https://callsam.com/blog/car-tires-dangerous-on-motorcycles/) ### [Bad Motorcycle Tires Can Be Deadly: What Bikers Should Know About Tire-Related Motorcycle Accidents](https://callsam.com/blog/bad-tires-cause-motorcycle-accidents/) ### [Can Grass Clippings Cause Deadly Motorcycle Accidents? 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