Who must wear a helmet in Missouri, the penalties for not wearing one, and the eye-protection rules every rider should know.
Missouri has a partial motorcycle helmet law. Under Senate Bill 147, effective Aug. 28, 2020 (RSMo 302.026), every motorcycle or motortricycle operator and passenger under 26 must wear an approved protective helmet.
A rider 26 or older may legally ride without a helmet only if they carry proof of health insurance that provides at least $50,000 in medical benefits for injuries sustained in a crash. Note: the official Motorcycle Operator Manual predates this change and still describes the older universal requirement.
Every operator and passenger under 26 must wear a helmet, with no exceptions.
A rider 26 or older must also wear one unless they carry the required proof of health insurance ($50,000+ in medical benefits). Helmets should meet the U.S. DOT standard (FMVSS 218).
Riding without a required helmet violates Missouri law, but enforcement is secondary — an officer cannot stop you for a helmet violation alone and must first observe another violation, such as speeding. A rider 26 or older who rides without a helmet and cannot show the required proof of insurance can be cited. Confirm current fine amounts with the Missouri Department of Revenue or your local court.
The Missouri Motorcycle Operator Manual strongly advises a plastic, shatter-resistant face shield or goggles, which protect against wind, dust, rain and debris; a windshield is not a substitute for eye protection (Form 2332, p.5).
Carry approved eye protection and use it whenever the motorcycle is in motion. Eye protection must give a clear view to each side, resist penetration, and never be tinted at night or in low light (Form 2332, p.5).
A legal motorcycle helmet must meet the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) FMVSS 218 standard. Look for the "DOT" certification label on the back. Helmets that meet stricter Snell or ECE standards offer additional protection. Avoid novelty helmets — they are not legal head protection.
Source: Test details reflect the consensus of major rider-education sources — confirm with the state agency before your visit. Built from the official Missouri Motorcycle Operator Manual, Form 2332 (Rev. 03-2019). Missouri/MSHP publish no official knowledge-test count or passing score; 25 questions / 80% (20 correct) is the multi-site practice consensus. Helmet facts reflect the 2020 statute, which postdates the manual.