In the United States, a visible DOT sticker is required on motorcycle helmets if the helmet is to be used on public roads. The DOT (Department of Transportation) sticker indicates that the helmet meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218, which sets minimum safety requirements for motorcycle helmets. Each helmet that meets the standard is required by the regulation to be marked with a permanent, legible, and easily visible label on the outside stating that it meets the requirements of FMVSS No. 218.
This sticker is important because it provides proof that the helmet meets certain safety standards and can help protect the rider in the event of an accident. In most states, it is illegal to ride a motorcycle without a helmet that meets DOT standards, and riders may be fined or ticketed if they are caught without a DOT-approved helmet.