In force · As amended up to 2026-08
129. Wearing of protective headgear .—Every person driving or riding (otherwise than in a side car, on a motor cycle of any class or description) shall, while in a public place, wear[2] [protective headgear conforming to the standards of Bureau of Indian Standards]:
Provided that the provisions of this section shall not apply to a person who is a Sikh, if he is, while driving or riding on the motor cycle, in a public place, wearing a turban:
Provided further that the State Government may, by such rules, provide for such exceptions as it may think fit.
Explanation .—"Protective headgear" means a helmet which,—
(a) by virtue of its shape, material and construction, could reasonably be expected to afford to the person driving or riding on a motor cycle a degree of protection from injury in the event of an accident; and
(b) is securely fastened to the head of the wearer by means of straps or other fastenings provided on the headgear.
Source: India Code