Helmet Safety Standards Explained
Harris Race Radios TeamChoosing the correct helmet standard is critical for safety and for meeting event regulations. This guide explains the main motorsport helmet standards used worldwide, including FIA, Snell, CMR, KRT, DOT, ECE and the requirements of Motorsport New Zealand (MSNZ), Motorsport Australia (CAMS), Motorsport UK, KartSport NZ and Karting Australia.
FIA Motorsport Helmet Homologations
These labels can usually be found underneath the lining inside the rear of your helmet.
FIA 8859-2015 / FIA 8859-2024
Approved
FIA 8859 helmets are widely used in circuit racing and rally. They are designed for use with frontal head restraint systems (HANS/FHR) and provide high levels of impact and fire protection.
FIA 8860-2010 / FIA 8860-2018 (Advanced Helmet Standard)
ApprovedFIA 8860 is the advanced helmet standard used in top-level categories such as Formula 1 and WEC. It offers significantly higher impact and penetration resistance than 8859 and is mandatory in many professional series.
FIA 8860-2018 ABP (Advanced Ballistic Protection)
Approved
FIA 8860-2018 ABP adds Advanced Ballistic Protection to the 8860 standard, improving protection around the visor opening against high-speed debris. It is required in Formula 1 and other top FIA categories.
FIA 8864-2018 (Earpiece Communication Systems)
ApprovedFIA 8864 covers earpiece communication systems used in motorsport helmets. In circuit racing, when a communication system is used, drivers must use FIA-approved earpieces. In rally, helmet-mounted speakers are permitted, as FIA rally helmets are designed for integrated intercom systems.
For a full guide on microphone types, earpiece options, connector types, and recommended helmet + comms setups, see our Helmet + Comms Setup Guide.
FIA CMR / CMS (Youth Karting Helmets)
Approved
FIA CMR and CMS helmets are designed for young drivers (typically under 15) in karting. They are lighter to reduce neck loads while still providing strong protection.
FIA CMR / CMS Helmet Standards
FIA KRT (Kart Racing Technology)
ApprovedFIA KRT is a karting helmet standard aimed at senior karting categories, offering higher impact performance than youth-specific CMR/CMS helmets.
Please Note: Full-face helmets homologated to FIA 8859-2015, FIA 8860-2010 and FIA 8860-2018 (including ABP) are eligible for some karting events. Snell K2015 is the first adult karting standard. FIA 8878-2024 is the latest karting helmet standard.
Snell SA2010, SA2015, SA2025
Conditionally Approved
Snell SA standards are used in many national and club-level circuit and rally events. Older standards (SA2010, SA2015) may be phased out depending on the ASN. SA2025 is the current and future standard for auto racing helmets and includes fire resistance and FHR compatibility.
Snell CMR2016 (Children’s Motorsport Racing)
Approved
Snell CMR2016 is a youth helmet standard used in karting and junior motorsport. It is lightweight and designed to reduce neck strain while still providing strong impact protection.
DOT FMVSS 218 (Motorcycle Road Standard)
Not Approved
DOT FMVSS 218 is a road motorcycle standard used in the USA. It is not approved for motorsport use by FIA, MSNZ, Motorsport Australia, Motorsport UK, KartSport NZ or Karting Australia. It does not include fire resistance or FHR compatibility.
ECE 22.05 / ECE 22.06 (European Motorcycle Standards)
Conditionally ApprovedECE 22.05 and the newer ECE 22.06 are European motorcycle helmet standards. Some national motorsport bodies allow certain ECE helmets for specific disciplines, but they are generally not accepted for higher-level car racing where FIA or Snell SA standards are required.
Motorsport New Zealand (MSNZ) Helmet Requirements
Approved (FIA / Snell / CMR)
MSNZ accepts FIA 8859, FIA 8860, FIA 8860-ABP, Snell SA (within date), and CMR/CMS for karting. DOT-only helmets are not accepted. Always check the current MSNZ approved helmet list for validity and expiry.
Motorsport Australia (CAMS) Helmet Requirements
Approved (FIA / Snell / CMR)
Motorsport Australia accepts FIA 8859, FIA 8860, FIA 8860-ABP, Snell SA (within date), and CMR/CMS for karting. DOT-only helmets are not accepted. Some older standards may be time-limited. Always check the current Motorsport Australia approved helmet schedule.
Motorsport Australia Helmet Regulations
Motorsport UK Helmet Requirements
Approved (FIA / Snell / CMR)Motorsport UK publishes an approved helmet list each year. FIA 8859, 8860, 8860-ABP and current Snell SA standards are generally accepted, along with CMR for junior karting. DOT-only helmets are not accepted.
Motorsport UK Helmet Standards
KartSport New Zealand Helmet Requirements
Approved (FIA CMR / CMS / KRT / Selected SA)
KartSport NZ specifies approved helmet standards for different age groups and classes. Youth drivers typically require CMR/CMS or equivalent, while senior drivers may use FIA karting standards or certain Snell SA helmets. DOT-only helmets are not accepted. Always check the current KartSport NZ technical regulations for your class.
Karting Australia Helmet Requirements
Approved (FIA CMR / CMS / KRT / Selected SA / Snell K)
Karting Australia specifies approved helmet standards by age group and competition level. Youth drivers (typically under 15) are required to use FIA CMR or CMS helmets. Senior drivers may use FIA KRT, current Snell SA, or Snell K standards depending on the class. DOT-only helmets are not accepted. Always check the current Karting Australia technical regulations and approved helmet list for your specific class and age group.
FIA Helmet Certification Labels
All FIA-approved helmets carry a homologation label inside the rear of the helmet. The image below shows the full range of current FIA helmet certification labels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which helmet standard do I need for MSNZ circuit racing?
MSNZ accepts FIA 8859-2015, FIA 8860-2018, FIA 8860-2018 ABP, and current Snell SA standards for circuit racing. DOT-only helmets are not accepted. Aaron Harris is an MSNZ Licence Examiner and can confirm which standard applies to your specific series — call +64 27 449 9654.
Which helmet standard do I need for Motorsport Australia events?
Motorsport Australia accepts FIA 8859, FIA 8860, FIA 8860-ABP, and current Snell SA standards. Some older standards are time-limited. Always check the current Motorsport Australia approved helmet schedule before purchasing.
Can I use a motorcycle helmet for motorsport?
No. DOT FMVSS 218 (motorcycle road standard) is not accepted by FIA, MSNZ, Motorsport Australia, Motorsport UK, KartSport NZ, or Karting Australia. Motorsport helmets require fire resistance and FHR/HANS compatibility that motorcycle helmets do not provide.
What helmet standard do junior kart drivers need in NZ?
KartSport NZ requires youth drivers (typically under 15) to use FIA CMR or CMS helmets, or Snell CMR2016. Senior drivers may use FIA KRT or certain Snell SA helmets. Always check the current KartSport NZ technical regulations for your specific class.
How do I know if my helmet is still within its approved date?
Check the homologation label inside the rear of your helmet. FIA and Snell standards have expiry dates — scrutineers at MSNZ and Motorsport Australia events will check this. If in doubt, contact Aaron Harris (MSNZ Licence Examiner) on +64 27 449 9654.
Why Buy From Harris Race Radios?
Harris Race Radios is NZ and AU’s most experienced motorsport helmet specialist. Our team brings unmatched depth of knowledge across every brand and standard we stock:
- Rex Harris — Qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for both NZ RSM and AU ACMA, with motorsport radio and equipment experience dating back to 1975 at the Marlboro Series Grand Prix.
- Aaron Harris — Active racing driver and race engineer. Barcelona 24 Hour 1st in class (2013), Bathurst 1000 and 12 Hour competitor, BMW Race Driver Series Champion (2011). Race engineer for Earl Bamber Motorsport, TekworkX, Matt Stone Racing, and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia, Asia-Pacific, and NZ. MSNZ Licence Examiner for helmets, racewear, FHR, and HANS. Contact Aaron: +64 27 449 9654 or aaron@harriscomms.co.nz.
We hold NZ stock for fast local dispatch and ship to Australia. Genuine factory stock, expert advice, and a team that competes under the same regulations they advise on. Read more about us →
Need Help Choosing the Right Helmet Standard?
Call Aaron on +64 27 449 9654 or Rex on +64 21 682 912, or contact us online for a free recommendation.