New Mexico § 66-7-356 - Mandatory use of protective helmets
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-356 — Mandatory use of protective helmets, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 66-7-356. Mandatory use of protective helmets
A. No person under the age of eighteen shall operate a motorcycle unless the person
is wearing a safety helmet that is securely fastened on the person's head in a normal
manner as headgear and that meets the standards specified by the secretary. The secretary shall adopt rules and regulations establishing standards covering
the types of helmets and the specifications therefor and shall establish and maintain
a list of approved helmets meeting the standards and specifications of the secretary. No dealer or person who leases or rents motorcycles shall lease or rent a motorcycle
to a person under the age of eighteen unless the lessee or renter shows such person
a valid driver's license or permit and possesses the safety equipment required of
an operator who is under the age of eighteen. No person shall carry any passenger under the age of eighteen on any motorcycle
unless the passenger is wearing a securely fastened safety helmet, as specified in
this section, meeting the standards specified by the secretary. B. Failure to wear a safety helmet as required in this section shall not constitute
contributory negligence. C. Autocycles are exempted from the helmet provisions of this section.
Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 66-7-356
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-356 cover?
Section 66-7-356 ("Mandatory use of protective helmets") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Mexico § 66-7-356?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-356" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Mexico law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.
How does New Mexico § 66-7-356 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.