A helmet that looks right is not the same as one that has met the rule. This guide explains what the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says about bicycle helmets: what is tested, what must be on the helmet and what to look for on a listing. It covers US rules only. Helmet rules in the UK and EU use different standards that we did not read, so check the marking required where you ride. This is general information, not medical advice.

This guide is based on the public source listed below. We have not tested any helmet or store. For bikes and frame sizes, see our guide to buying a bike or e-bike online.

What counts as a bicycle helmet

Source: CPSC, Resellers Guide to Selling Safer Products (Publication 254, February 2025). Last checked: 17 October 2026.

The CPSC guide defines a bicycle helmet as headgear marketed as protecting a cyclist from head injury, or marketed in a way that implies it. A helmet promoted for general use or other sports still counts if a reasonable buyer could conclude that cycling is among the uses. The rule is 16 CFR part 1203, and helmets that fail any requirement cannot be offered for sale.

What is tested

  • Peripheral vision: the helmet does not block the rider's vision.
  • Positional stability: it does not come off in a fall.
  • Retention system strength: the straps do not stretch enough to let the helmet come off.
  • Impact attenuation: it significantly reduces the force to the head when it hits a hard surface.

What must be on the helmet and in the box

  • Fitting and wearing instructions, including a picture showing the proper way to wear it.
  • A legible model number or designation.
  • Warnings, starting with "WARNING" in capital letters and bold type, that no helmet protects against all impacts and death or serious injury could occur; that for maximum protection it must fit properly and be worn with the straps fastened (this one also on the package); that a helmet that has taken an impact may be damaged without visible signs and should be returned to the maker or destroyed and replaced; and that common cleaners such as ammonia or bleach may damage it without visible signs.
  • A label certifying that the helmet meets the standard, with the name, address and phone number of the maker, importer or private labeler. The guide lists further items that we did not read.

What to check on a listing

  1. Does the listing say the helmet meets the US federal bicycle helmet standard, and can you see the label or manual?
  2. Are fitting instructions and the head size range given?
  3. Does it name the maker or importer with an address you can contact?
  4. What is the return policy? Helmets are often not returnable once worn.
  5. Check recalls at cpsc.gov/recalls before you buy.

What we could not confirm

  • The rest of the certification label list and the text of 16 CFR part 1203 itself.
  • Rules and marks for UK, EU and e-bike or scooter helmets.

Source: US CPSC, Resellers Guide to Selling Safer Products (PDF).