What equipment do I need to ride my motorcycle legally in Florida?

Under Florida law, motorcycle riders may need various kinds of equipment depending on the rider’s age, type of bike, and limits of his or her insurance.

For instance, Florida has an optional helmet law for insured riders over 21. Generally speaking, a biker over 21 who is covered by an insurance policy providing for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for crash injuries isn't required to wear a helmet.

However, since head injuries are the most common cause of motorcyclist deaths, we recommend all riders wear helmets as part of their regular motorcycle safety gear for every ride.

Motorcycle Safety Equipment Required by Law in Florida

Equipment laws usually apply only to standard motorcycles. Motorcycles with 2 brake horsepower or less, bikes with motors with a displacement of 50cc or less, or any motorcycle incapable of traveling more than 30 mph on level road are generally exempt from some of these statutes.

For all other motorcycles, Florida regulations require the following necessary equipment:

• Eye protection. Riders cannot operate motorcycles unless they are wearing eye-protective devices, such as goggles, approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
• Helmets for riders under 16. Children under 16 are prohibited from operating mopeds or riding on motorcycles unless wearing securely-fastened protective headgear approved by the DOT.
• Lights and mirrors. Motorcyclists are required to have and use working headlights, tail lights, reflectors, turn signals, and left and right side rear-view mirrors.
• Passenger equipment. If a motorcyclist is carrying a passenger, the bike must be designed for this purpose by providing the passenger with his or her own seat and his or her own footrest.
• License plates. Just as drivers do, a motorcyclist is required to have a state-issued license plate to legally ride on the roads. If a motorcycle is registered to a person under 21, state law requires the license plate to be a different color and design than the standard plates.

If you're not wearing proper protection, or don't have safety gear installed on your bike, you could be pulled over and ticketed for a traffic infraction. Use our website to learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a motorcyclist, or fill out the form on this page today to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our injury attorneys.