Decoding Helmet Certifications: ISI, DOT, ECE, SHARP, SNELL Explained (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between DOT Snell and ECE? ›

SNELL vs.

DOT: SNELL standards are more comprehensive and rigorous than DOT FMVSS 218, with additional tests that are not part of DOT requirements. ECE: The M2020R standard of SNELL is more closely aligned with the ECE 22.05 standard, including similar tests and requirements.

Helmet labeling: How to understand if the helmet is hom*ologated with ECE 22.06. Check the label on the chin strap and if the first two numbers next to the E mark are 06, it means that the helmet is hom*ologated according to ECE 22.06.

For riders in India, an ISI-certified helmet is the baseline for safety. DOT (Department of Transportation): The DOT certification is a U.S. government standard. Helmets that meet DOT standards have undergone tests for impact absorption, penetration resistance, and retention strap strength.

ECE stands for Economic Commission for Europe. To determine a European standard for the traffic safety, they have come up with some guidelines including 'guideline 22'. This guideline contains the minimum requirements for motorcycle (or scooter) helmet.

The DOT certification is mandatory for all helmets sold in the US, and it is considered the minimum safety standard for helmets. The Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) is an international organization that sets safety standards for motorcycle helmets sold in most of the European countries.

Many helmets in the U.S. have both certifications, which means they can be used in most countries without any problem. Technically, if you only have an ECE certification, you could get a ticket. Despite this, most people still consider ECE better than DOT.

DOT Sticker

Helmets that meet FMVSS 218 must have a sticker on the outside back of the helmet with the letters “DOT,” which certifies that the helmet meets or exceeds FMVSS 218. It is important to note that some novelty helmet sellers provide DOT stickers separately for motorcyclists to place on non-complying helmets.

1) Indian Standard Institute (ISI):

This is a government-approved testing and certification organisation in India. It is now known as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Helmets that meet ISI ratings are considered legal and safe in India.

Helmets are certified only after meeting all test requirements at the Snell lab. Then, samples of certified helmets sold to consumers are bought randomly from retailers for more compliance testing. Snell certified helmets means high impact management and premium head protection.

ECE 22.05 is a standard that sets forth the requirements for motorcycle helmets, aiming to provide a high level of protection for riders in various scenarios. It specifies performance criteria for helmets, including their ability to absorb impacts, resist penetration, and provide effective retention systems.

Are Shoei helmets ECE certified? ›

All Shoei helmets produced for the European market meet the ECE regulation. You will find the regulation-label sewn to the inside of the helmet. In case of helmets with detachable centre pads the hom*ologation label is sewn to the chin strap. In some cases you find the label under the chin strap cover.

The ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) is similar to the DOT, but it only relates to vehicles in the EU. Many other countries use the ECE regulations for their own vehicles to standardize them. You'll want ECE-approved lights to avoid issues of improper lighting on your vehicle.

A major difference between DOT and ECE certification is that while DOT simulates two impacts in the same location on the helmet, ECE does this only once. However, it is generally accepted that a DOT certified helmet would pass the ECE test, and vice versa.

One of the main differences between DOT and SNELL certification is the level of impact protection provided by the helmet. DOT certified helmets are required to meet a minimum level of impact protection, but SNELL certified helmets must meet a higher standard of protection.

An ECE certificate is widely known as a certificate in early childhood education. If you are a teacher or child day care worker interested in acquiring an ECE certificate or diploma, there are many schools offering these types of programs.