Does Your Child Legally Need a Helmet? Bicycle Safety Rules for Children in Germany
When children start riding bicycles, parents often wonder: Is a helmet required by law? Where are children allowed to ride? When can they use the street? The answers are not as simple as they may seem. Although wearing a helmet is not legally mandatory, German law places clear responsibility on parents to keep their children safe.
Here are the key rules for children’s bicycles (Kinderfahrrad) and how to ensure safe riding.
No, there is no legal helmet requirement.
German Road Traffic Regulation (§ 21a StVO) does not require children—regardless of age—to wear a helmet.
But it is strongly recommended:
Police, schools, and insurers emphasize helmet use, as most serious injuries among children involve the head.
According to the German Road Safety Council (DVR):
Over 60% of children’s head injuries could have been prevented with a helmet.
The rules vary by age:
| Child’s Age | Allowed Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 8 years | Mandatory: sidewalk | Riding on the street is forbidden |
| 8–10 years | Sidewalk or street | Sidewalk is recommended |
| 10 years and older | Street or bike lane | Treated like adult cyclists |
Note: Children may not ride on pedestrian-only zones or highways.
Yes.
Since 2017, adults may legally ride their bicycles on the sidewalk when accompanying a child under 8 years old.
This helps ensure supervision and safer learning.
Yes. Even kids’ bikes must meet safety requirements (§ 67 StVZO):
Front and rear brakes
Audible bell
Approved reflectors (front, rear, sides)
Front and rear lights for riding on public roads
Bikes lacking this equipment may not be used in public traffic.
In the 4th grade, local police conduct the Bicycle Test (Fahrradprüfung) with schools:
Traffic rules
Safe riding techniques
Importance of helmets and reflectors
German law does not mandate helmet use for children, but it remains one of the most effective safety measures.
Riding rules depend clearly on age, and parents hold legal and moral responsibility for their child’s safety.
A simple, comfortable helmet can make a life-changing difference.
