As you may have noticed, there have been some changes to the clothing requirements for motorcycle operators and passengers over the past year.

As the Motorcycle Safety Program Manager, I've received numerous inquiries concerning the lack of orange vests on riders over the last couple of months. With motorcyclists taking advantage of the warmer weather, I want to take this opportunity to clarify the current clothing requirements for motorcycle/moped operators and passengers.

The only change to the clothing requirements is that the requirement for the bright orange or yellow vest has been replaced with a requirement for a brightly-colored outer upper garment during the day, and a reflective upper garment during the night. The outer garment shall be clearly visible and not covered. Military uniforms do not meet this criteria.

The rest of the clothing requirements remain the same, but just in case it's been a while since you've read them, the following is a list of the current requirements in accordance with OPNAVINST 5100.12G and NASPAXRIVINST 5560.2L. These requirements apply to the operator as well as the passenger.

(1) Properly fastened (under the chin) protective helmet that meets or exceeds the U.S. Department of Transportation standards. It is recommended that a minimum of four square inches of retro-reflective material be attached to the back and each side of the helmet.

(2) Properly worn eye protective devices which are defined as impact, or shatter resistant eyeglasses, goggles, or a face shield attached to the helmet. A windshield, fairing and standard sunglasses are not considered proper eye protection.

(3) Properly worn long- sleeved shirt or jacket, long-legged trousers and full-fingered leather or equivalent gloves.

(4) Properly worn hard-soled shoes with heels. (Riders are encouraged to properly wear over-the-ankle shoes or boots.)

(5) A brightly-colored outer upper garment during the day and a reflective upper garment during the night. The outer garment shall be clearly visible and not covered. Military uniforms do not meet this criteria.

These requirements are in place for a very good reason -- your safety and protection. Some of these items increase your visibility to others, some are for your comfort and some help to protect you in case of an accident. They all help to prevent you from receiving a ticket from an NAS Police Officer for failure to wear the required gear.

Between wearing the gear, and practicing safe, responsible operation of your motorcycle, you can greatly reduce your chance of injury and increase you riding enjoyment.

If you have any questions, contact Beverly Jeffas at 301-342-5160 or JeffasBA@navair.navy.mil.