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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bike-oregon-parent-ticket

In Oregon, if a child 11 or younger rides without a required helmet, who gets the ticket?

The parent or guardian.

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  1. The parent or guardian ✔
  2. The child
  3. The store that sold the bike

Why: Oregon requires helmets for riders under 16. For kids 11 and younger, a ticket goes to the parent or guardian. Kids 12 to 15 may be ticketed themselves.

Huh, didn't know that: Oregon's presumptive fine is $25, and on a first conviction you pay no fine if you prove to the court you have an approved helmet.

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My kid forgot his helmet and I got the ticket. Talk about a head-ache for dad.
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References

Answer: The parent or guardian. Oregon requires helmets for riders under 16. For kids 11 and younger, a ticket goes to the parent or guardian. Kids 12 to 15 may be ticketed themselves.

  1. ORS 814.488 Citations; exemption from requirement to pay fine www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors814.html
    is 11 years of age or younger, any citation issued shall be issued to the parent, legal guardian
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. ORS 814.485 (Oregon Legislature) www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors814.html
    The presumptive fine for failure of a bicycle operator or rider to wear protective headgear is $25.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. ORS 814.488(3) (Oregon Legislature) www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors814.html
    the person shall not be required to pay a fine if the person proves to the satisfaction of the court that the person has protective headgear
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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