Govt to make 2 helmets mandatory for new 2-wheelers; ABS must for high-speed bikes from 2026

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed an amendment to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, making it mandatory for all two-wheeler manufacturers to provide two protective helmets at the time of vehicle purchase. The proposal was announced through a draft notification released on June 23, 2025. The rule is aimed at ensuring both the rider and pillion passenger are equipped with standard safety gear.

According to the draft notification, “At the time of purchase of the two wheeler, three months from the date of commencement of Central Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2025, the manufacturer of the two wheeler shall supply two protective headgears conforming to specifications prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards at the time of purchase of a two wheeler.” The provision will become mandatory three months after the final rules are notified in the official gazette.

The helmets provided by manufacturers must meet the quality standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). However, individuals exempted under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act will not be subject to this requirement. Section 129 of the Act outlines categories of persons for whom wearing protective headgear is not compulsory.

In a separate provision, the government has proposed that all new L2 category two-wheelers — motorcycles and scooters with an engine capacity above 50cc or top speeds exceeding 50 km/h — must be fitted with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS). This rule will come into effect from January 1, 2026. The ABS installed must conform to the Indian Standard IS14664:2010.

The draft rules are currently open for public consultation. Citizens and stakeholders have been given 30 days from the date of publication to submit their suggestions or objections. Feedback can be sent to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways via email at [email protected].