Motorcycle helmet requirements updated

Lawmakers passed a bill March 28 modifying Nebraska’s motorcycle helmet law.

Under LB1004, sponsored by Blair Sen. Ben Hansen, a Nebraska resident who is 21 or older and received a Class M license prior to May 1, 2024, may operate a motorcycle or moped on Nebraska highways without a helmet if they complete a three-hour online motorcycle safety course and submit proof of completion to the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

Riders who are 21 or older and receive a license after May 1, 2024, are not required to wear a helmet if they complete the full basic motorcycle safety course and submit proof of completion to the department.

Under the bill, nonresidents who are 21 or older and ride without a helmet no longer are required to show proof of motorcycle rider course completion to a law enforcement officer upon request. They are required to have a motorcycle license issued by another state.

LB1004 also eliminates the requirement that motorcycle or moped passengers complete a safety course before riding without a helmet. A passenger who is 21 or older may ride without a helmet if the person operating the motorcycle is not required to wear a helmet.

The bill passed on a vote of 39-4 and took effect immediately.