California · CA · Vehicles

California: Do adults have to wear motorcycle helmets?

All riders

California requires every motorcycle driver and passenger to wear a safety helmet, regardless of age.

The rule also covers motor-driven cycles and motorized bicycles on highways. The driver can be cited if a passenger is not wearing a helmet, and a passenger can be cited if the driver is not. Fully enclosed three-wheeled vehicles are exempt.

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What the law says

A driver and any passenger shall wear a safety helmet meeting requirements established pursuant to Section 27802 when riding on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle.

Cal. Vehicle Code § 27803

Sources

Cal. Vehicle Code § 27803 Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com

Confirm with the state

Agency: California Office of Traffic Safety
Website: ots.ca.gov

How bordering states compare

Arizona Only some ridersArizona requires helmets only for motorcycle operators and passengers under 18.
Nevada All ridersNevada requires every motorcycle and moped driver and passenger to wear a helmet.
Oregon All ridersOregon requires every motorcycle operator and passenger to wear a motorcycle helmet.

Last verified Oct 22, 2026 · Confidence: High · How we research · Report an error

High confidence: an official source names this explicitly, and the quote above shows it.

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