Bicycle helmets might look a little goofy, but they’re lifesavers. They reduce the risk of grave head injuries by 60% and traumatic brain injuries by 53%. These figures highlight the need for helmets in biking, considering that large cities nationwide saw a 25% increase in cyclists over the pandemic.
In California, lawmakers have doubled down on safety with updated regulations for 2025. These changes aim to protect riders of all ages and prevent life-altering injuries, making the streets safer for everyone.
So, what do these new rules mean for you? Understanding the latest laws is vital, whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend rider. Failure to comply could mean a fine on top of taking unnecessary risks. This guide breaks down the updated helmet requirements and who they apply to.
Previous California Bicycle Helmet Laws
Before diving into the 2025 updates, let’s take a quick look at what the law used to say about bicycle helmets in California. Understanding previous rules helps put the new changes into perspective.
For years, California law required the wearing of a helmet for anyone under 18 when riding a bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or in-line skates on public roads, bikeways, sidewalks, or trails. Adults were not legally required to wear helmets—though safety experts strongly recommend it.
When it came to electric bikes (e-bikes), helmet laws depended on the bike’s classification:
- Class 1 and 2 e-bikes (pedal-assisted or throttle-powered up to 20 mph) had no strict requirements.
- Class 3 e-bikes (pedal-assisted up to 28 mph) mandated helmets for all riders, regardless of age.
Additional requirements for e-bikes:
The law also introduced equipment requirements to enhance e-bike safety. These aim to help cyclists avoid distracted motorists and aggressive drivers, particularly at night.
Rear reflectors or lights: E-bikes must be equipped with a red reflector or a red light with a built-in reflector on the back, visible from 500 feet when in front of motor vehicles with compliant upper beam headlamps.
These laws set the foundation for California’s cycling safety regulations. However, 2025 brings some important updates to address increasing ridership and evolving traffic conditions.
Key Changes in California’s Bike Helmet Law for 2025
These revisions aim to enhance safety for all cyclists, especially with the growing popularity of e-bikes.
1. Expanded age and helmet requirements for e-bike riders
Generally, young riders need more protection, especially given the fast speeds and potential risks associated with e-bikes.
Minors on e-bikes: All riders of Type 1 and Type 2 e-bikes under 18 must now wear helmets when operating any e-bike class, aligning with traditional bicycle requirements.
Helmet specifications for e-bikes: Minors riding e-bikes are required to wear helmets that meet the NTA-8776 standard or helmets approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) with a multidirectional impact protection system (MIPS) designation.
2. Enhanced helmet safety standards
Helmets must provide adequate protection. As such, the updated law emphasizes the following:
Compliance with safety standards: Helmets must meet the standards set by the ASTM or CPSC.
Labeling requirements: Helmets sold or offered for sale must be conspicuously labeled, indicating compliance with the applicable safety standards. This labeling serves as the manufacturer’s certification of conformity.
3. Local authority’s regulation on e-bike usage
Recognizing California’s diverse landscapes and traffic conditions, the updated law grants local authorities more control. Currently, a bill in Orange County is in committee to add the following requirements:
Orange County electric bicycle safety pilot program: Local authorities in Orange County can adopt ordinances regulating e-bike use by minors. This new capacity prohibits children under 12 from operating Class 1 or 2 e-bikes or requiring operators without a driver’s license to complete a safety training course.
Enforcement and penalties: For the first 60 days after implementing such an ordinance, violations result in a warning. After that, violators face a $25 fine, with parents or legal guardians held jointly liable for their minor’s violations.
Reporting requirements: Counties adopting these ordinances must submit a report to the Legislature by Jan. 1, 2029, detailing the number of warnings, citations, and crash incidents involving minors.
4. Clarification on helmet sales and standards
To ensure that all helmets available in the market meet safety requirements, the law specifies:
Prohibition of non-compliant helmets: Selling or offering for sale helmets that do not meet the specified safety standards is prohibited. They cover helmets for traditional bicycles, e-bikes, nonmotorized scooters, skateboards, and in-line or roller skates.
Who is Affected by the Law?
The high bicycle accident rates in San Francisco should remind everyone of the importance of adhering to road safety measures. Here’s a breakdown of all the groups covered by the new legislation:
Minors
In California, all cyclists under 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet when operating or riding as a passenger on a bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or in-line or roller skates on public streets, bikeways, or trails.
This mandate aims to protect young riders from potential head injuries, which can have severe or even fatal consequences. The law specifies that helmets must meet safety standards set by designated organizations.
Adults
The bicycle helmet law for adults in California is not very strict except for Class 3 e-bikes. All cyclists aged 18 and over must wear helmets when riding a Type 3 e-bike.
Safety advocates emphasize that adult riders set a positive example for younger cyclists by wearing helmets to promote a culture of safety within the cycling community.
While adults aren’t legally required to wear helmets for traditional bicycles and anything below a Type 3 e-bike, they or their children may still be held liable if they are injured on a bike while not wearing a helmet. This part of the “comparative negligence” principle can affect personal injury settlements and insurance claims.
Parents and guardians
Parents and legal guardians of minors play a massive role in enforcing helmet use. They can be liable if their child is found riding without a helmet. Penalties for non-compliance include fines, which have increased from $25 to $50 in some counties as of 2025.
Electric bike riders
E-bikes’ increasing popularity has resulted in specific regulations to address their unique characteristics:
- Class 1 and 2 e-bikes: These bikes assist up to 20 mph riders. Cyclists under 18 must now wear helmets, aligning with the rules for traditional bicycles. Adults are encouraged but not mandated to wear helmets.
- Class 3 e-bikes: Capable of assisting up to 28 mph, all cyclists—minors and adults—must wear helmets when operating Class 3 e-bikes. Additionally, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.
How to Choose a Safe and Legal Bicycle Helmet
Here’s how to choose the right helmet that keeps you safe and compliant with California’s laws.
Look for certifications
When shopping for a helmet, always check for credible safety certifications. Choose helmets tested and approved by organizations like the CPSC, the ASTM, or the Snell Foundation.
These certifications denote that the helmet meets rigorous safety standards and can protect you during impacts.
Ensure proper fit and comfort
A helmet’s effectiveness depends heavily on its fit. Make sure the helmet sits level on your head, with the front edge just above your eyebrows to protect your forehead. The straps should surround your ears in a “V” shape and be snugly fastened under your chin so the helmet stays in place during a ride.
You should be able to adjust the internal fit system—most modern helmets have a dial or adjustable padding—to secure a comfortable yet firm fit. Additionally, look for helmets that offer ample ventilation. This feature enhances comfort during long rides and helps keep your head cool, especially on hot days.
Regular inspection and replacement
Even the best helmet can become less effective if damaged or worn out. Make regular inspection of your helmet a habit—check for cracks, frayed straps, or worn padding. Any impact, even one that doesn’t result in visible damage, might compromise the helmet’s integrity.
Experts recommend replacing your helmet every 3–5 years or immediately after any significant impact. This practice ensures that you always ride with a helmet with the highest level of protection.
Additional buying tips
Before purchasing, try on several helmets to see which fits your head shape best. Many models come with different shell sizes and adjustable features that can make a big difference in comfort and safety. Consider your riding style as well: if you’re an urban commuter, a helmet with integrated lights or reflective elements might be beneficial.
For those who enjoy off-road adventures, look for helmets that offer robust impact protection while still being lightweight. Finally, read customer reviews and seek recommendations from fellow cyclists to gather insights into durability and comfort over time.
Because Every Ride Should End Safely
California’s updated bicycle helmet law balances green transportation and road safety. With stricter helmet requirements for minors and e-bike riders, as well as clearer safety standards, these changes reinforce the importance of proactive protection.
It’s in your best interest to understand and follow these regulations so that you can prevent serious injuries no matter the type of bike you use.
But accidents can still happen, even when you do everything right. If you or a loved one is involved in a bicycle-related accident, knowing when to call a lawyer after a bicycle incident is just as important. Protect your rights and explore your legal recourse with RMD Law and our experienced bicycle accident lawyers.
