Indiana has no statewide bicycle helmet law. While some states have mandatory bicycle helmet laws, they are not mandatory for riders of any age in Indiana, according to state law. Kids, adults, everyone can ride helmet-free.
Thirteen states do not require a rider to wear a helmet: Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont and Wyoming. Indiana’s in that group.
Quick Reference
Age requirement: None
Adult requirement: None
E-bike rules: Same as regular bikes
Enforcement: None
Maximum fine: None
Safety standards: N/A
The Basic Rule
There isn’t one. Indiana doesn’t regulate bicycle helmets at all. You can ride helmet-free whether you’re 8 or 80, cruising through Indianapolis or exploring the Monon Trail.
How Enforcement Actually Works
It doesn’t. Since there’s no law, there’s no enforcement. No tickets, no fines, no confiscated bikes. Indiana lets riders make their own helmet decisions.
What This Means for Families
Pack whatever you want. The state puts helmet decisions in the hands of the parents.
Adults Have It Easy
Zero helmet requirements. Whether you’re commuting through Fort Wayne, exploring the Cardinal Greenway, or tackling the hills around Brown County, the choice is yours.
E-Bikes and Indiana
Same deal as regular bikes – no helmet requirements. Indiana treats e-bikes like regular bicycles for helmet purposes.
Where to Buy Helmets in Indiana
If you want a helmet anyway:
- Bicycle Garage Indy (Indianapolis) – Good selection, knows local riding
- Joyride Bikes (Indianapolis) – Community shop with fair prices
- Spoke & Word (Bloomington) – University town, understands budgets
- Freewheelin’ Community Bikes (Indianapolis) – Non-profit with affordable options
Chain stores carry basics, but fit matters more than brand.
Bottom Line
Indiana keeps it simple: no helmet law, period. The state trusts riders to make their own safety decisions based on their riding situation and comfort level.
Whether you’re cruising the Cultural Trail in Indy or exploring the Nickel Plate Trail, helmet use is entirely up to you.