DKT- Every rider and passenger (pillion or sidecar) must wear an approved helmet.
- Approved standards: AS 1698-1988, AS/NZS 1698:2006 (or a later version) or ECE 22.05 (or a later version).
- The helmet must be securely fitted and fastened.
- Learner riders must wear a securely fastened high-visibility vest or jacket.
Helmet rules
- The helmet must be marked to show that it meets one of the approved standards.
- A face shield or visor must meet Australian Standard AS 1609 or an appropriate European standard.
- Helmets made or imported from 1 July 2012 must carry the symbol of a body accredited by JAS-ANZ, certifying that they comply.
- Do not remove that marking. A helmet without its sticker could get you fined.
The handbook also advises buying a new helmet that fits snugly, since a used one may be damaged in ways you cannot see.
Helmet devices
Head-up displays, communicators and helmet cameras count as helmet devices. Restricted and probationary riders may use one only for navigation and to play or stream audio, and only if it was set up before riding. With a communicator you cannot use voice commands or touch it while riding. Fully licensed riders may also make and receive calls, though the handbook recommends keeping helmet device use to a minimum.
High-visibility clothing for learners
Learners must wear a high-visibility vest or jacket that is securely fitted and fastened. It must be labelled or marked as meeting at least one of these standards (day and night):
- AS/NZS 4602.1:2011
- ISO 20471:2013
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2015
- BS EM471:2003
The handbook gives its advice on gloves, boots and other gear using 'should' rather than 'must'. See what to wear and pre-ride checks. Learner rules are summarised in the licence steps.
Based on The Victorian Rider Handbook (2023, Department of Transport and Planning) and the VicRoads motorcycle pages. This guide covers Victoria: other states and territories have different rules, and rules change from time to time, so check vicroads.vic.gov.au for the latest.
Quick answers
What helmet standard is legal for motorcycles in Victoria?
A helmet must be certified to AS 1698, AS/NZS 1698 or ECE 22.05 (or a later version), and marked to show it complies.
Do learner motorcyclists in Victoria have to wear a hi-vis vest?
Yes. Motorcycle learners must wear a securely fitted and fastened high-visibility vest or jacket that meets one of the listed standards.
Do passengers have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle in Victoria?
Yes. Every rider and passenger, including pillion and sidecar passengers, must wear a certified, securely fastened helmet.