Arizona Motorcycle Helmet Laws (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Arizona is home to the Sonoran Desert, the Grand Canyon and other striking natural landscapes. It’s an ideal state to explore on a motorcycle—but it’s important to understand the rules and regulations that apply to motorcyclists. Here’s a closer look at Arizona’s motorcycle helmet laws.
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Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Arizona?
Arizona motorcycle helmet laws aren’t as strict as those in many other states. Helmet requirements are determined by the rider’s age:
- Operators and passengers under 18 must wear helmets
- Operators and passengers 18 and up are not required to wear helmets
However, the law requires all operators and passengers to wear appropriate eye protection. Usually, this means wearing goggles, glasses or a transparent face shield. Many motorcyclists have found that it’s easiest to wear an approved motorcycle helmet with a built-in face shield.
Motorcycle accident injuries are almost always severe for riders who don’t wear helmets, so it’s wise to wear one even if the law doesn’t require it.
Helmet Requirements by Age, Insurance, and License Type
Some states only allow motorcyclists to ride without helmets if they meet specific insurance requirements. For example, Florida allows riders aged 21 and up to ride without helmets if they can prove they have medical insurance.
Arizona doesn’t have any laws like these. Arizona motorcycle helmet laws require anyone under 18 to wear a helmet, but you might wonder if the rules are different for mopeds.
You don’t need a motorcycle license to ride a moped (a motorbike with an engine of 50cc or less). However, moped operators or passengers under 18 must wear helmets.
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Approved Helmet Standards in Arizona
Arizona motorcycle helmet laws require the use of helmets approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Approved helmets have been manufactured to meet specific safety criteria set by the DOT. They generally weigh about three pounds, and they have a thick foam lining and sturdy chin straps.
Penalties for Violating Helmet Laws in Arizona
The penalties for violating motorcycle helmet laws aren’t as severe as those for violating Arizona DUI laws and other criminal statutes. For an initial violation, you’ll face a fine of $100. If you are either 16 or 17 years old, you may be sentenced to community service instead. Repeated violations may lead to more serious penalties.
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Exceptions or Special Cases in Arizona
Aside from allowing riders 18 and up to choose whether they wear helmets or not, Arizona doesn’t have any exceptions to the rule.
Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Arizona
If you’ve been seriously injured in a motorcycle crash, it’s important to consult an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Motorcycle accident lawyers in Arizona understand what it takes to build a strong case, value your losses and fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.
If you aren’t sure how to find the right attorney, ConsumerShield can help. We assess your case and match you with qualified lawyers near you. Fill out our contact form for a free case review!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Generally, no. However, you might receive a ticket and a fine.
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In many cases, you can—but recovering compensation is harder. The other party may argue that because you weren’t wearing a helmet, they aren’t solely to blame for your injuries.
