DOT Rated Motorcycle Helmets

When you’re buying a motorcycle helmet, it’s important to choose one that has a minimum DOT helmet rating. DOT approved motorcycle helmets are those that have met the safety standards set forth by the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the United States. In states with helmet laws, all helmets must be DOT certified. DOT approval signifies that the helmet has met specific criteria for impact resistance, penetration resistance, retention system effectiveness, and field of vision, among other factors. At Dennis Kirk, every motorcycle helmet we sell carries a DOT approved certification.

Helmets that are not DOT approved are often called novelty helmets. Some riders choose these helmets because they may be lighter and have a lower profile. These helmets provide little to no protection and should be avoided. If you must wear a helmet, why not wear one that is proven to help protect your head?

DOT motorcycle helmets are constructed using materials and technologies that have been tested and proven to reduce the severity of head injuries in motorcycle accidents. Helmet manufacturers follow the standards that the Department of Transportation when designing and building these helmets. These are minimum requirements, though, and more protective helmets are available. Check out our selection of SNELL motorcycle helmets if you want a helmet that meets higher standards.