Maine’s helmet law is simple and sensible: if you’re under 16, you need a helmet. If you’re 16 or older, you’re free to make your own choices. No complicated age brackets, no weird exceptions. Just a clean cutoff that keeps kids protected while letting adults decide for themselves.
The law applies to both public roads and bike paths, so there’s no confusion about where the rules kick in.
Quick Reference
Age requirement: Under 16 must wear helmets
Adult requirement: None
E-bike rules: Same as regular bikes
Enforcement: Up to $25 fine for second violation
Safety standards: Must be properly fastened
Where it applies: Public roads and bike paths
The Basic Law
A person under 16 years of age who is an operator or a passenger on a bicycle or an operator of roller skis on a public roadway or a public bikeway shall wear a helmet of good fit, positioned properly and fastened securely upon the head by helmet straps.
That’s straight from Maine’s statute book. The key points are that the helmet needs to fit properly, be positioned right, and be fastened securely. A loose helmet sitting on your kid’s head like a hat won’t cut it.
What “Properly Fastened” Actually Means
Maine doesn’t mess around with loose straps or helmets worn backward. The law specifically requires that helmets be “fastened securely upon the head by helmet straps.” This means:
- Straps need to be tight enough that the helmet doesn’t slide around
- The helmet should sit level on the head, not tilted back
- You should be able to fit just one finger between the strap and chin
It’s not rocket science, but it’s worth getting right since a poorly fitted helmet won’t protect anyone.
Enforcement Reality
The penalty for a second violation is a traffic infraction fine of up to $25. Notice that’s for a second violation, which suggests Maine gives families a warning before hitting them with fines.
Most enforcement focuses on education rather than punishment. Police aren’t setting up helmet checkpoints, but they will use violations as teaching moments during other stops.
E-Bikes Follow the Same Rules
29-A MRS §2063(14) requires an operator or passenger of an electric bicycle who is under the age of 16 to wear a helmet. So whether your kid is on a regular bike or an e-bike, the same under-16 rule applies.
Where to Find Good Helmets
Since you’ll need helmets for kids under 16, here are some solid options across Maine:
- L.L.Bean – Multiple locations, good selection and they know their stuff
- EMS – Outdoor gear stores with decent helmet selection
- Local bike shops – Always the best bet for proper fitting
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – Decent selection, competitive prices
The key is making sure the helmet fits properly and meets safety standards. Any helmet sold at a legitimate retailer will meet the basic requirements.
Bottom Line
Maine’s helmet law strikes a good balance between protecting kids and respecting adult choice. The under-16 requirement is clear and reasonable, enforcement is education-focused, and there aren’t any weird local variations to worry about.
If you’re riding in Maine with kids, make sure anyone under 16 has a properly fitted helmet and you’re good to go. The state has some fantastic cycling – from the Eastern Trail to Acadia’s carriage roads – and the helmet law won’t get in the way of enjoying it.
For adults, the choice is yours. But remember that Maine drivers aren’t always expecting bikes, especially on rural roads, so a helmet might not be a bad idea regardless of what the law says.