Who must wear a helmet in Oregon, the penalties for not wearing one, and the eye-protection rules every rider should know.
Oregon has a universal motorcycle helmet law. You must wear a helmet that complies with U.S. Department of Transportation standards whenever you ride a motorcycle, moped or unenclosed autocycle — as either the operator or a passenger — regardless of age (p.11).
A DOT-compliant helmet carries a label stating the manufacturer or brand, the model, and the words DOT, FMVSS No. 218, CERTIFIED (p.12).
There is no adult exemption in Oregon. Every operator and every passenger must wear a DOT-compliant helmet, at every age.
The helmet rule also covers mopeds and unenclosed autocycles. An autocycle operator and passengers must wear a helmet unless the autocycle has an enclosed cab certified to the federal §49 CFR 571.216a standard (p.4, 11).
Riding or carrying a passenger without a required DOT-compliant helmet violates Oregon law and can bring a fine and other penalties. Because the rule covers passengers as well as operators, confirm current fine amounts and citations with the Oregon DMV.
Unlike the helmet requirement, Oregon law does not require eye or face protection. The manual strongly recommends a plastic shatter-resistant face shield or goggles to protect against wind, dust, rain, insects and debris (p.11, 13).
A windshield is not a substitute for a face shield, and eyeglasses or sunglasses will not keep your eyes from watering or stay on at speed. Never wear tinted eye protection at night or in low light (p.13).
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 are confirmed on the official agency page. 25 questions confirmed on the official page; the manual states you must answer 20 correctly (80%) to pass. To add an endorsement you must complete an approved Team Oregon rider-education course.