Football Helmet Reconditioning & Recertification Explained

Updated October 25, 2026 · Helmet Market

Reconditioning means a football helmet is cleaned, inspected and repaired, with worn or damaged parts replaced. Recertification means the helmet model is tested so it still meets the NOCSAE performance standard. Both are done by licensed reconditioners, and a recertified helmet carries a sticker showing the year.

Who sets the standard?

Football helmets in the United States are certified to standards written by NOCSAE (the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment). Reconditioning and recertification are carried out by reconditioners, many of whom are members of NAERA (the National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association).

How often should a helmet be recertified?

Riddell's own shell stickers read "Maximum life 10 years with annual recertification", and many schools and leagues recondition and recertify every helmet before each season. Check your league's rules, because many require a current recertification sticker.

Do football helmets expire?

Yes. Manufacturers set a maximum service life, and Riddell's label states 10 years. After that, a helmet should not be reconditioned, recertified or used for play.

Football helmet reconditioning near me

To find helmet reconditioning near you, contact a licensed reconditioner. NAERA lists its member companies on its website, and many schools and leagues already work with one and can share the contact.

How to read the stickers

Riddell helmet recertification sticker showing the recertified year, NAERA member, and initial season — A recertification sticker: the year it was last recertified, "NAERA member", the initial season, and the 10-year maximum life.

Recertified + year: the season the helmet was last reconditioned and recertified.
Initial season: the helmet's first season of use. Count 10 years from here.
NAERA member: the work was done by a member of the reconditioners' association.

Buying a used helmet

Before you buy a used helmet, check the initial season and the latest recertification sticker in the photos. Our used listings show the helmet's stickers and are graded on our condition scale. A cosmetic grade is not a safety rating: used helmets should be professionally inspected and appropriately recertified before use. Browse used football helmets.