Motorcycle helmet: are you unknowingly breaking the law?
Since January 2024, a Grand-Ducal regulation has transposed the requirements of the new European standard ECE-R 22.06 into the Luxembourg Highway Code. For thousands of motorcyclists, the small Bluetooth device stuck to their helmet could now pose a legal problem — and cost 250 euros and four points. Loïc Schiocchet, coordinator for the promotion of mobility solutions at the ACL, explains.
The ritual has become second nature: before putting on your helmet, you switch on the intercom, connect your phone, and off you go. GPS in your ear, conversation with your pillion, group chat among friends — communication systems are an integral part of the motorcycling experience. Except the legislation has just changed. And most riders have no idea.
An innocent accessory, now regulated
Since the Grand-Ducal regulation of 30 January 2024, the rules governing the installation of accessories on motorcycle helmets have been tightened in Luxembourg, in line with the European standard ECE-R 22.06, the successor to ECE-R 22.05.
The principle: any accessory fitted to a helmet approved under ECE-R 22.06 — intercom, camera, communication mount — must have been tested and approved together with that helmet by its manufacturer. No manufacturer approval, no installation.
Old standard, old flexibility
Not all helmets are subject to the same rules. Under the old standard ECE-R 22.05, an external intercom can be fitted freely, provided it does not compromise the helmet’s protective structure. This is the regime most motorcyclists are familiar with — and still rely on, sometimes mistakenly, when they change helmets. Because anyone purchasing a new model today is very likely to end up with an ECE-R 22.06 helmet — and therefore subject to the strict regime.
Check before you ride
The ECE-R 22.06 standard has raised testing protocols: multi-angle impacts, rotational forces, visor resistance. The slightest added element — a glued-on housing, a screwed-on mount, a microphone integrated after the fact — can alter the helmet’s behaviour on impact. Hence the requirement to allow only accessories that have undergone the same test procedures.
The approval label, sewn onto the chin strap, indicates the standard: “05” for the old one, “06” for the new one. If your helmet is ECE-R 22.06 approved, consult the manufacturer’s documentation to find out which accessories are approved. The good news: most brands now offer built-in intercoms or certified kits for their ranges.
250 euros and four points
Article 170bis of the Highway Code provides for a fine of 250 euros and a four-point deduction in the event of non-compliance. Reason enough for every motorcyclist, before the next ride, to turn their helmet over and read the small label that no one ever looks at.
IN BRIEF — What changes for your intercom
Your helmet bears the marking “05” (standard ECE-R 22.05). You may install an external intercom of your choice, provided it does not damage the helmet’s structure.
Your helmet bears the marking “06” (standard ECE-R 22.06). Only communication systems tested and approved with your helmet model are permitted. Check the manufacturer’s list.
How to check? Turn your helmet over: the approval label is sewn onto the chin strap. The number “05” or “06” indicates the applicable standard.
In the event of an offence: €250 fine and a 4-point deduction (Art. 170bis of the Highway Code).
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