Iowa · IA · Vehicles
Iowa: Do adults have to wear motorcycle helmets?
No helmet law
Iowa has no motorcycle helmet law for riders or passengers of any age.
The Iowa Department of Transportation says state law does not require helmets on motorcycles or autocycles, though it recommends them. Iowa's motorcycle operating rules in Iowa Code 321.275 cover passengers, seating, and headlights but say nothing about helmets. The DOT notes that riders traveling out of state may need a helmet where other states require one.
What the law says
Iowa law does not require helmets for autocycles or motorcycles.
Sources
- Iowa DOT: Get a Motorcycle, Moped, or Autocycle License Official · iowadot.gov
- Iowa Code ยง 321.275 Official · legis.iowa.gov
- Iowa DOT news release, Motorcycle fatalities, an alarming trend (2024) Official · iowadot.gov
Confirm with the state
- Agency
- Iowa Department of Transportation
- Phone
- 515-239-1101
- Website
- iowadot.gov
How bordering states compare
- Illinois No helmet lawIllinois has no motorcycle helmet law; riders and passengers must wear eye protection instead.
- Minnesota Only some ridersMinnesota requires helmets only for riders under 18 and for anyone riding on an instruction permit.
- Missouri Only some ridersMissouri requires helmets for riders under 26 and for anyone riding on an instruction permit.
- Nebraska Only some ridersNebraska requires helmets for riders under 21 and for adults who haven't completed a required safety course.
- South Dakota Only some ridersSouth Dakota requires helmets only for motorcycle operators and passengers under 18.
- Wisconsin Only some ridersWisconsin requires helmets only for riders under 18 and for anyone riding on an instruction permit.