New Hampshire splits the difference on helmet laws. Helmets are required by law for cyclists less than 16 years of age, but once you hit 16, you’re free to ride helmet-free across the Granite State. It’s a pretty straightforward age cutoff that matches what a lot of other states do.
The enforcement is reasonable too – it’s not like cops are camping out at trail heads looking for bare-headed 15-year-olds. But the law is clear enough that it’ll definitely come up if there’s an accident or other incident.
Quick Reference
Age requirement: Under 16 must wear helmets
Adult requirement: None
E-bike rules: Same as regular bikes
Reflective gear: Required at night for all ages
Municipal variations: Follow state law
Safety standards: Must meet DOT standards
The Basic Rule
Helmets are required by law for cyclists less than 16 years of age (RSA 265:144-X).
The helmet needs to meet Department of Transportation safety standards, which basically means any helmet you buy at a real bike shop will work. Don’t stress about finding some super-specific certification, standard bike helmets are designed to meet these requirements.
Night Riding Gets Interesting
Here’s where New Hampshire adds a twist: Bicyclists and pedestrians must wear at least one item of reflective apparel from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise (RSA 265:144-XII). This applies to everyone, regardless of age.
So if you’re riding after dark, you need something reflective. A vest, reflective tape on your jacket, reflective ankle bands, whatever works. It’s not just about lights (though you need those too), it’s about having something that bounces light back to drivers.
How Enforcement Works
New Hampshire takes a pretty practical approach to enforcement. The helmet law for kids is real and will be enforced, but it’s not like they’re setting up helmet checkpoints. It’s more likely to come up during traffic stops, after accidents, or if there are other safety concerns.
The reflective gear requirement at night is probably more actively enforced since it’s easier to spot and affects all riders. Plus, it makes sense from a safety perspective – New Hampshire’s rural roads can be pretty dark.
E-Bikes Follow the Same Rules
New Hampshire treats e-bikes the same as regular bikes for helmet requirements. Under 16? Need a helmet, whether you’re on a regular bike or an e-bike. Adults, its up to you!
What This Means for Families
If you’re riding with kids in New Hampshire, make sure anyone under 16 has a helmet. Period. And if you’re doing any evening rides, pack some reflective gear for everyone.
The good news is that New Hampshire has some fantastic family-friendly cycling areas – the rail trails, lake loops, and mountain bike networks are all helmet-friendly once you’ve got the basics covered.
Gear Shopping in New Hampshire
Any bike shop in New Hampshire will have helmets that meet the legal requirements. The key is getting a proper fit, especially for kids whose heads are still growing. A poorly fitting helmet isn’t going to protect anyone and might not meet the legal standard either.
Bottom Line
New Hampshire’s bicycle helmet law hits a practical middle ground. Kids under 16 need helmets, adults don’t, and everyone needs some reflective gear for night riding. It’s straightforward, reasonably enforced, and most cities stick with the state approach.
The reflective gear requirement is actually pretty smart – it addresses one of the biggest safety issues for cyclists without being overly restrictive. And the helmet law for kids strikes a balance between safety and personal choice that seems to work well for the state.
If you’re riding in New Hampshire, just remember: helmet for anyone under 16, something reflective after dark, and you’re good to explore everything from the Seacoast to the White Mountains.