Racing Helmets with FIA and Snell Dual Certification

Emerson Bersaghi
2026-02-16T11:36:40-05:00

If you race exclusively in the U.S., a Snell-only SA2025 helmet will meet every sanctioning requirement. But if there’s any chance you’ll race internationally, or if you simply want the best combination of features and resale value, a Bell, or other, dual-certified SA2025/FIA 8859-2024 helmet is the smartest investment.

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By Matt Lambert at Right Motorsport – For FastRacer.com
Published: 2/16/26

The Rise of Dual-Certified Helmets

The new Snell SA2025 standard is the latest safety benchmark for auto-racing helmets in the United States. At the same time, the FIA 8859-2024 homologation governs most international competitions.

To meet the needs of drivers who race across borders, or those who simply want the highest level of protection, helmet manufacturers like Simpson, Bell, Arai, and more, now offer dual-certified helmets.

What does “dual certification” mean?

A dual-certified helmet has been independently tested and approved to two separate safety standards at the same time:

Snell SA2025, which is required by most U.S. sanctioning bodies.

FIA 8859-2024, which is accepted in nearly every international series.

This means a single helmet can legally be used in club racing at home, IMSA events, endurance competitions in Europe, or any series that specifies either standard. Dual certification ensures compliance worldwide and adds peace of mind for drivers who value maximum flexibility.

What’s New in Snell SA2025

As we have covered in previous articles, here’s a quick rundown of the latest updates to Snell SA certification changes:

Higher Impact Testing – Helmets must manage slightly greater impact energies and lower peak G-forces compared to SA2020.

Closer FIA Alignment – Test requirements now track more closely with FIA 8859-2024, making dual certification easier to achieve.

Validity Through 2035 – Like past cycles, SA2025 helmets will remain accepted in U.S. competition for roughly ten years.

For domestic racers, this means that SA2020 helmets remain legal through at least 2026, but an SA2025 model extends compliance well into the next decade.

Benefits of Adding FIA 8859-2024

FIA 8859-2024 is the global standard used in most international series. Choosing a helmet that carries both approvals provides:

International Eligibility – From IMSA events overseas to European endurance racing, FIA homologation ensures worldwide acceptance.

Factory-Installed HANS Anchors – Dual-certified Bell helmets include pre-mounted posts, saving time and ensuring precise fit.

Enhanced Build Quality – Meeting two demanding test regimes requires top-level materials and manufacturing consistency.

For drivers who travel, or anyone planning to resell their helmet, the FIA label adds flexibility and long-term value.

BELL RS7 PRO Stamina Red - Dual-Certified Helmet Snell SA2025 / FIA8859-2024

Bell Helmets 2025 Lineup

Bell’s dual-certified range includes updated versions of popular models such as the Bell RS7 ULTRA, RS7 PRO, GT6 ULTRA, XD7 ULTRA, and XR7 ULTRA. All feature Bell’s proven lightweight construction, advanced ventilation, and sleek aerodynamic design.

Some models will also introduce Bell’s SmartLock™ side-mounted visor locking system, a new FIA-approved mechanism that improves visor stability and one-handed operation without obstructing the driver’s field of view. While SmartLock™ is a welcome upgrade, the real story for racers is the combination of Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024 in a single helmet.

Rollout Schedule

The Snell Foundation and Bell Racing have outlined a clear timeline:

April 1, 2025 – Snell begins issuing SA2025 certification labels.

October 1, 2025 – First SA2025 helmets may be sold and displayed.

October 30, 2025 – SA2020 label shipments end.

December 31, 2025 – SA2020 production must cease.

Fast Racer Recommendation

If you race exclusively in the U.S., a Snell-only SA2025 helmet will meet every sanctioning requirement.
But, if there’s any chance you’ll race internationally, or if you simply want the best combination of features and resale value, a Bell, or other, dual-certified SA2025/FIA 8859-2024 helmet is the smartest investment.

Key Takeaways

Dual Certification = Flexibility – Legal for U.S. and international competition.

Added Features – Factory HANS anchors and Bell’s latest construction standards.

SmartLock™ Option – Available on select Bell models for improved visor strength and ease of use.