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Short answer: yes, using a motorcycle intercom is legal in the UK. There is no law against a Bluetooth unit on your helmet. But there are rules on phones, a general duty to stay in control, and new helmet rules on accessories. Here is what you need to know.
Phones: hand-held is banned, hands-free is allowed
The Highway Code (rule 149) says you MUST NOT use a hand-held phone or similar device while riding. Since 2022 that covers almost any hand-held use: calls, texts, photos, scrolling music or maps.
A helmet intercom is hands-free, so taking a call through it is legal. But rule 149 also warns that hands-free equipment can distract you, and the police can still prosecute for careless or dangerous riding if you are not in proper control. In practice:
- Answer with one tap or by voice, not by fiddling with the phone.
- Set up sat nav and music before you set off.
- Keep conversations short in heavy traffic, and end the call if it gets tricky.
Earbuds under the helmet
Unlike in some countries (Spain, for example, bans earbuds and only allows helmet-integrated units), UK law does not specifically ban earbuds under a helmet. Many riders wear earplugs with built-in speakers for this reason. Be sensible with volume: rule 148 of the Highway Code warns that loud music can mask other sounds, and you must still be able to hear sirens and traffic.
The helmet side: ECE 22.06 and accessories
The newer ECE 22.06 helmet standard takes accessories into account. Helmet makers can certify a helmet as:
- UA (universal accessory): tested with a reference device of a set size and weight, so it accepts any intercom certified as UA within those limits.
- SA (specific accessory): tested with one particular intercom, usually the helmet maker’s own.
There is no record of riders being prosecuted over the “wrong” accessory, but UK law requires your helmet to comply with the regulations. The safest approach is to follow the helmet maker’s advice: no drilling into the shell, external clamp or adhesive mount, and nothing that touches the EPS liner.
Sat nav through the intercom
Hearing directions in your helmet is safer than looking at a screen. Mount any phone or sat nav securely in a cradle and do not touch it while moving.
Our recommended intercoms
Not sure what type you need? Read Mesh vs Bluetooth or see our intercom guide.
