When shopping for helmets, people often focus on the helmet's appearance. Full face? 3/4? Shorty or motocross? Most people do not understand what it means if a helmet is DOT-approved and whether or not it is something that they should be concerned about. In truth, the need for DOT helmets is dictated by the state in which you are driving, although safety should always be first and foremost on a rider's mind.

What Are DOT Helmets?
DOT simply stands for Department of Transportation. Every state in the country has different rules and guidelines concerning the operation of motorcycles. Although a few states still don't require it, in most states it is a legal obligation to wear some form of helmet. In addition, many of those states have specific criteria when it comes to what kind of helmet qualifies--hence the DOT approval.

If a helmet is in compliance with the standards set forth by the DOT, it is considered legal to use in that state. The fact that a helmet is DOT-approved does not mean it is impervious or that it will protect the wearer every time. Instead, it simply states that the helmet has achieved or surpassed the minimum requirements set out in the law.

At VestMotorcycleShop.com, we always have our customers' safety in mind. To that end, our inventory is mostly comprised of DOT helmets. Although certain states do allow riders to wear novelty helmets (or none at all), that is truly at the rider's discretion. DOT-approved helmets offer the best protection and should never be overlooked when heading out to ride.