Bicycle Helmet Laws in Virginia
Last reviewed by BikeSize EditorialThis guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change - verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
Virginia has no statewide bicycle-helmet law that applies to adult riders. No statewide bicycle helmet law for minors. State code authorises counties and cities to require helmets for riders under 14 by local ordinance - many Northern Virginia jurisdictions (including Fairfax County, Arlington, and Alexandria) have done so. See Va. Code § 46.2-906.1 (local-option enabling statute).
Statute
What this means in practice
Because there's no statewide age mandate, adult riders in Virginia aren't legally required to wear a helmet — but cycling-injury research still strongly recommends one. Local cities, school districts, and bike-share programs can impose stricter rules, so check the municipal code wherever you ride.
Get the fit right
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