How can you tell if a helmet is DOT compliant?

• A. It has a label attached to the helmet that states the manufacturer's name and/or brand, model, and says DOT, FMVSS No.218, CERTIFIED.
• B. It has a blue sticker.
• C. It weighs less than a certain weight.
• D. It is brand new.

Answer: (A)

To know if a helmet meets the safety standard, check for the official certification label inside the helmet. A DOT-compliant helmet will have a label from the manufacturer that includes the brand, the model, and the words DOT and FMVSS No. 218 along with CERTIFIED. This proof shows the helmet was tested to the federal safety standard.

Other signs aren’t reliable proof: a blue sticker isn’t an official certification, weight isn’t a standard indicator, and being brand new doesn’t guarantee it meets the standard. If you don’t see the certification label, don’t assume it’s compliant—verify with the manufacturer or choose a helmet that clearly shows the DOT certification.