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There is no single U.S. age at which teens can skateboard without a helmet: requirements depend on state and local law, the rider’s age, and where they ride. Choose a helmet labeled for skateboarding, make sure it fits and fastens correctly, and check the current rules for your location before riding.
Do teens have to wear a helmet when skateboarding?
It depends on the jurisdiction, the rider’s age, and the place where they skateboard. State laws may cover public streets, paths, or other public property, while local governments may impose additional requirements. The examples below illustrate that variation; they are not a complete inventory of U.S. laws.
| Location | Age covered | Where the cited rule applies | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | Under 18 | A street, bikeway, or other public bicycle path or trail | A properly fitted and fastened helmet meeting ASTM or CPSC standards. See California Vehicle Code section 21212; the code page notes an amendment effective January 1, 2026. |
| Massachusetts | 16 or younger | A public way, bicycle path, or other public right-of-way | A helmet that fits and is secured by straps. See Massachusetts General Laws, chapter 85, section 11B1/2. |
| New York | Under 14 statewide; local governments may extend coverage to older ages | The statewide skateboard provision; local rules may add requirements | A helmet is required for skateboarders under 14. See New York Vehicle and Traffic Law section 1238. A proposal to expand the statewide age coverage appeared in committee on the page reviewed; that proposal should not be treated as enacted law. |
| Hawaii | Under 18 | Public property | Act 130 of 2025 establishes a helmet requirement with fit, fastening, and safety-standard terms. See Hawaii Act 130 of 2025. |
These examples do not establish the rule for every state, city, skatepark, or private property. Check the current statute and local ordinances for the place where the teen will ride; confirm whether the rule covers that location and age, and what helmet standard it specifies.
What kind of helmet is safe for skateboarding?
Pick a helmet that is labeled and certified for the activity, not merely one that looks similar. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says a multi-use helmet used for skateboarding should have an ASTM label certifying it for skateboarding. Read the helmet’s label and manufacturer instructions, then compare them with the applicable local law. A bicycle label alone does not establish skateboard certification or prove that the helmet meets every local skateboarding requirement. CDC’s skateboard helmet fact sheet explains the activity-specific label check.
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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) notes that helmets marketed exclusively for skateboarding are not covered by the federal requirements for bicycle helmets. Bicycle-helmet testing includes checks such as peripheral vision, positional stability, retention strength, and impact attenuation, but those bicycle requirements should not be conflated with skateboard certification. See CPSC’s helmet guidance.
How do you check a skateboard helmet’s fit?
Fit affects whether a helmet stays in place and provides its intended coverage. CDC recommends trying on the helmet and using the specific brand’s sizing chart because sizing can vary. Work through these checks with the rider:
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- Suitable for Age 14+ years old
- The package includes knee pad x 2; elbow pad x 2; wrist guard x 2; helmet x 1
- The skateboard helmet is designed with multiple vent, adjustable dail and adjustable strap for proper fit
- Knee elbow pads and wrist guards are made of durable, soft EVA padded material with tough plastic plates
- Appropriate for inline skating; roller skating; skateboarding; scootering; skating and other outdoor sports
- Measure around the head just above the eyebrows and ears, then choose a size using that helmet brand’s chart.
- Place the helmet level on the head. The front rim should align with the eyebrows; it should not sit too high or low, and the back should not touch the top of the neck.
- Check that it is snug all around, without gaps, and that the rider can see forward and side-to-side.
- Adjust the side straps so they form a V under and slightly in front of the ears.
- Center and snug the chin strap. Once fastened, the helmet should not shift back-to-front or side-to-side.
- Try the helmet with the hairstyle the rider will have while skating, and follow the manufacturer’s adjustment instructions.
For additional detail, see the CDC skateboard helmet fact sheet.
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When should a skateboard helmet be replaced?
CDC says skateboard helmets can withstand more than one very minor hit, but a helmet must be replaced if it has been in a serious crash or is damaged. Inspect it after an impact and follow the manufacturer’s guidance on maintenance, useful life, and whether it can be reconditioned. CDC does not specify a universal calendar replacement interval in its skateboard fact sheet. CDC HEADS UP’s skateboard helmet fact sheet gives the crash-and-damage guidance.
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- Adjustable Fit: Size in crucial for maximum protection. We included two sets of interchangeable pads so you can get the perfect snug fit. The adjustable straps can be tightened or loosened for a customized fit and feel
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- How to Measure A Proper Helmet: To find the right size bike helmet, start by measuring your head circumference, wrap a flexible tape measure around the largest portion of your head about one inch above your eyebrows. Or, wrap a string around your head, then measure the length of string with a yardstick. Size Large is recommended if your size is between 20.86-24.41 inch (53 cm-62 cm).It Suitable for people aged 5 and above
What protection does a helmet provide—and what does it not?
A correctly selected, fitted, maintained, and consistently worn helmet can help protect against serious brain or head injury, but it cannot prevent every injury or make skateboarding concussion-proof. CDC HEADS UP puts it plainly: “There is no concussion-proof helmet, but a helmet can help protect your child or teen from a serious brain or head injury.” The statement is from the CDC HEADS UP helmet safety guidance, updated July 28, 2025.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What other safety steps should families take?
CPSC recommends additional protective gear and basic checks before riding. These steps complement—rather than replace—an appropriately certified, well-fitted helmet and compliance with local law:
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- Durable: Built for both comfort and impact resistance with reinforced ABS shell & thickened shock-absorbing EPS core
- Extra Removable Lining: Skateboard helmet with two removable liner for different head sizes and easy to wash the sweat away
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- How to Measure A Proper Helmet: To find the right size bike helmet, start by measuring your head circumference, wrap a flexible tape measure around the largest portion of your head about one inch above your eyebrows. Or, wrap a string around your head, then measure the length of string with a yardstick. Size Large is recommended if your size is between 21.3-22.8 inch (54 cm-58 cm). The recommended Age Grading: 5 Years and Older
- Wear wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads, and use flat-soled shoes.
- Check the skateboard for loose or cracked parts before a session.
- Inspect the riding surface for hazards.
- Avoid traffic and riding in low light.
See CPSC’s skateboard safety recommendations.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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