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Wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is a legal requirement in India. It helps reduce the risk of serious head injuries and is enforced through strict traffic regulations. This page outlines the applicable without helmet fines, laws, state-wise penalties, and what happens if you are caught without a helmet.
The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 mandates helmet use for both the rider and the pillion on two-wheelers. Not wearing a helmet is a punishable offence under this law.
Key points:
₹1,000 fine for not wearing a helmet when riding
Licence disqualification for up to 3 months.
Pillion riders are also required to wear helmets.
Enforcement may vary slightly by state or union territory.
If traffic police catch you without a helmet, they may initiate the following actions:
What typically happens:
A no helmet challan (either physical or e-challan) is issued on the spot.
Police may ask for your driving licence and vehicle documents.
The fine for driving without helmet must be paid before the due date mentioned.
Repeat offenders may face licence suspension or increased scrutiny.
While the central law sets ₹1,000 challan without helmet as the standard penalty, different states may implement varied fine amounts or additional consequences.
State |
Helmet Fine (₹) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|
Maharashtra |
₹500 – ₹1,000 |
Strict enforcement in cities |
Delhi |
₹1,000 |
May include 3-month licence suspension |
Tamil Nadu |
₹1,000 |
Applies to both rider and pillion |
Karnataka |
₹500 |
Helmet rule enforced for both riders |
Uttar Pradesh |
₹500 – ₹1,000 |
Depends on city-specific enforcement |
Rajasthan |
₹1,000 |
As per MV Act, 2019 |
Gujarat |
₹500 |
Commonly enforced in urban areas |
West Bengal |
₹1,000 |
Applicable to pillion riders too |
Kerala |
₹500 |
Public safety campaigns accompany penalties |
Punjab |
₹1,000 |
Spot challans common |
You can pay the helmet fine using both online and offline methods.
Ways to pay:
Visit the state traffic police website or e-challan portal
Use the official Parivahan website: echallan.parivahan.gov.in
Scan the QR code on the challan using a UPI app
Pay at a designated traffic police booth or office
Use mobile apps launched by your state’s transport department
Not all helmets meet the legal and safety standards. Only ISI-marked helmets approved by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) are permitted on Indian roads.
Helmets that are not accepted:
Non-ISI certified helmets.
Bicycle or construction helmets.
Decorative, toy, or novelty helmets.
Open-face helmets without chin straps.
Damaged or visibly worn-out helmets.
Half-helmets that do not cover the head properly.
Below are the tips to avoid a without helmet challan in India:
Always wear a BIS-certified helmet with an ISI mark.
Fasten the helmet strap securely before riding.
Ensure pillion riders also wear proper helmets.
Avoid using helmets that are cracked or broken.
Keep your documents ready in case you are stopped.
Replace your helmet every few years or after an accident.
Never remove your helmet while the bike is moving.
Riding without a helmet is not just a legal violation—it’s a serious safety risk. By wearing a certified helmet, you comply with the law and protect yourself and your pillion rider from life-threatening injuries. Avoid fines, legal complications, and risk by simply making helmet use a non-negotiable habit.
Yes. Each instance of violation can attract a separate challan. Repeat violations may also lead to licence suspension.
No. There is no jail term for this offence. However, repeated violations may result in harsher penalties like suspension of driving licence.
Helmet laws were revised under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. Some states have updated their local rules since then.
Helmet laws are applicable nationwide. However, enforcement levels may vary in rural or less regulated regions.
Yes. Both rider and pillion are required by law to wear helmets. A fine can be issued to either or both if found without one.
Unpaid challan for not wearing helmet may attract additional penalties, vehicle seizure, or issues during licence or insurance renewal.
Yes. E-challans can be issued through CCTV footage or surveillance systems. You may not be stopped physically.
Yes. Sikh men wearing turbans are generally exempt in several states. Some exemptions may apply to medical cases or specific on-duty personnel.
Visit echallan.parivahan.gov.in or your state traffic police portal. Use your vehicle number or driving licence to check challan status.
Only if it carries an ISI mark and fits securely. Full-face helmets, however, are safer and widely recommended.
Carry your driving licence, registration certificate (RC), pollution under control (PUC) certificate, and valid insurance policy at all times. These help in resolving traffic challans smoothly.
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