Tennessee Motorcycle Helmet Laws (2026)
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Reviewed ByAdam Ramirez, J.D.
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Few things can match the thrill of taking on the open road on a motorcycle. However, motorcycle accident injuries are not uncommon and often far more devastating than injuries sustained in car accidents.
Wearing a motorcycle helmet might not prevent accidents, but it may save you from serious injury or death. Tennessee motorcycle helmet laws are designed to encourage all motorcyclists to protect themselves on the road.
Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Tennessee?
Tennessee has what’s known as a universal helmet law. This means that motorcyclists and passengers (regardless of age or experience) must wear helmets.
Helmet Requirements by Age, Insurance and License Type
In some states, motorcyclists 21 and over are permitted to ride without helmets if they have a certain amount of experience, medical insurance or both. Tennessee’s Senate Bill 1450 attempted to introduce a pilot program allowing some motorcyclists to ride without helmets.
To qualify, motorcyclists had to be 21 or older and have medical insurance other than TennCare (Tennessee’s Medicaid program). However, the bill died in 2024.
Approved Helmet Standards in Tennessee
Tennessee requires motorcycle helmets to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. However, some motorcyclists have the option to choose helmets built to alternative safety standards.
Penalties for Violating Helmet Laws in Tennessee
Tennessee is one of the relatively few states that could send you to jail for breaking helmet laws. If you’re caught riding with no helmet, you could face both of the following:
- A fine of up to $50
- Up to 30 days in jail
A violation of Tennessee motorcycle helmet laws is classified as a Class C misdemeanor.
Exceptions or Special Cases in Tennessee
Although Tennessee requires all motorcyclists to wear approved helmets, riders over 21 have the option to choose helmets conforming to alternative safety standards like these:
- Southern Impact Research Center (SIRC)
- Snell Foundation
- American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM)
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
If you choose one of these alternative helmets, make sure it has a clear label saying it’s been certified.
Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Tennessee
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the most important step to take is seeking medical attention. After that, it may be a good idea to consult an attorney.
If you’re looking for the best motorcycle accident attorney in Tennessee has to offer or need a motorcycle accident lawyer elsewhere in the state, ConsumerShield is here to help. Fill out our contact form to start with a free case evaluation!
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Frequently Asked Questions
If a parent knowingly lets their child violate Tennessee motorcycle helmet laws, they could face the same consequences as other violators: a fine of up to $50 and up to 30 days in jail.
No. Tennessee does have a point system, but it doesn’t assess points for violations of helmet laws.
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