Bike Helmet

The City provides free bicycle helmets and fittings to New York City residents at special events.

You must be present at the event to get a helmet. All participants who receive a helmet fitting must sign a waiver. For children under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign the waiver.

Find an event on the Citywide Events Calendar.

Learn more about bike helmet giveaways and fittings.

Recreational Cyclists: All children up to age 14 are required by New York State law to wear bike helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). All bicycle riders up to age 14 must wear approved helmets.

Commercial Cyclists: New York City law requires all commercial cyclists to wear securely fastened, properly fitted helmets that are in good condition. Employers are required to ensure that their commercial cyclists wear helmets.

Children 13 and under are required by New York State law to wear bike helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Children 12 and under may ride their bicycles on the sidewalk. All other cyclists may receive a summons for riding on a City sidewalk.
Children under 1 cannot be carried on a bicycle.
Children must be carried in a properly affixed child carrier.

Learn more about bike safety and regulations.

Bike Helmet Requirements

Bike Safety Rules for Children