Rule 83: Wearing a motorcycle helmet
On all journeys, the rider and pillion passenger on a motorcycle, scooter or moped MUST wear a protective helmet. This does not apply to a follower of the Sikh religion while wearing a turban. Helmets MUST comply with the Regulations and they MUST be fastened securely. Riders and passengers of motor tricycles and quadricycles, also called quadbikes, should also wear a protective helmet. Before each journey check that your helmet visor is clean and in good condition.
Laws RTA 1988 sects 16 & 17, & MC(PH)R as amended reg 4
Why the capitals matter. The Highway Code writes a rule in capitals — MUST or MUST NOT — when it is backed by law, so breaking it is a criminal offence. The rules that do not use capitals are advice.
5 theory test questions on this rule
From the DVSA revision question bank. These are not the questions asked in the real theory test. Each one shows the answer, the explanation, and our own note on why every other option is not it.
Motorcycle
- What does a person need to do when they ride as a pillion passenger? Motorcycle loading
- What should your pillion passenger do while you're riding around a bend? Motorcycle loading
- You're wearing a motorcycle safety helmet while riding your motorcycle. What would make the helmet illegal? Safety and your motorcycle
- When may a motorcyclist carry a pillion passenger? Essential documents
- You're about to emerge from a junction. Your pillion passenger tells you it's clear. When should you rely on their judgement? Alertness