The City provides free bicycle helmets and fittings to New York City residents.

You must be present to get a helmet. All participants who receive a helmet fitting must sign a waiver.  For children under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign the waiver.

There are two ways to get a free helmet or fitting:

Online

Search the Events Calendar for a free helmet giveaway and fitting event.

Find an event on the Citywide Events Calendar.

By Phone

Make an appointment with the Department of Transportation's Safety City Unit.

Call 311 for assistance.

Recreational Cyclists: All children up to age 14 are required by New York State law to wear bike helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). All bicycle riders up to age 14 must wear approved helmets. 

Commercial Cyclists: New York City law requires all commercial cyclists to wear securely fastened, properly fitted helmets that are in good condition. Employers are required to ensure that their commercial cyclists wear helmets.

Children under age 1 cannot be carried on a bicycle.

Children must be carried in a properly affixed child carrier.

Children age 12 and younger may ride their bicycles on the sidewalk. All other cyclists may receive a summons for riding on a City sidewalk.

Learn more about bike safety and regulations.