1972 was the year that the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) broadcast they were going to create standards for motorcycle helmets. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, referred to as DOT standard, was penned using information and methods that were devised years earlier. The first draft wasn’t revised before its release in 74’. Although the DOT standards need a tune up, they still provide for safer helmets than those not DOT approved.

Two main differences separate DOT- AND SNELL-APPROVED helmets:
    1. Testing standards
    2. Verification of results.

     Simply put, DOT and Snell rate each helmet by placing it on an sensor equipped head form.  The protected head form is then dropped on an anvil from a specified height and the impact results are recorded.

     DOT and Snell test each helmet two times at four different impact zones. DOT drops their helmets from a 6-foot height on the flat anvil and from a 4.5-foot height on the hemispherical anvil. Snell on the other hand, drops the helmets from a 10-foot and 7.5-foot height on both anvils, which simulates a more severe impact.

     DOT certification, however, is less regulated. The manufacturer performs their own tests and determines whether their helmets are DOT approved. Even though the manufacturer doesn't have to report their findings, the government does occasionally conduct limited tests or spot checks. Nevertheless, allowing each company to test their own equipment and not make them report their results means that the DOT certification is done by the honor system.

     The DOT standards are important because they outline the minimum requirements all motorcycle helmets must meet, which has already saved countless lives. But if you want to make sure your helmet has been tested impartially, then buying a helmet with the Snell sticker on it is a dependable alternative.