Glossary
DOT-Approved Helmet
A DOT-approved helmet is certified by its manufacturer as meeting the United States federal motorcycle helmet standard.
[VERIFY] What is a DOT-approved helmet? A DOT-approved helmet is one the manufacturer certifies as meeting the United States federal motorcycle helmet standard, marked with a DOT label on the back of the shell. Novelty helmets sold with a DOT-lookalike sticker are a known problem, so buy from a reputable retailer. Helmet laws themselves — who must wear one and what counts — are set at the state level and differ, so check your own state's requirements and the current federal standard rather than relying on a summary.