How long will helmets stay in certified condition? What happens when a helmet no longer meets the standard?

Factors such as the type of helmet and the amount and intensity of usage will determine the condition of each helmet over a period of time. It should be noted the NOCSAE helmet standard is not a warranty, but simply a statement that a particular helmet model met the requirements of performance tests when it was manufactured or recertified. Tests in these plants indicate that helmets, which regularly undergo the reconditioning and recertification process, can meet standard performance requirements for many seasons. For helmets, NOCSAE does recommend that the consumer adhere to a program of periodically having used helmets recertified. Because of the difference in the amount and intensity of usage on each helmet, the consumer should use discretion regarding the frequency with which individual helmets are to be recertified.
Helmets that no longer meet the NOCSAE standard are rejected from the reconditioning/recertification process.  NAERA members notify the organization or school that sent in the helmets of the rejected helmets.

How can I determine if a helmet meets the NOCSAE helmet test standards?

Those helmets, which meet the NOCSAE standard, must bear the seal, "Meets NOCSAE standards" and the logo for that type of helmet. The seal and logo are permanently branded or stamped or affixed on the outside rear portion of the helmet.

Can a helmet which bears the NOCSAE seal be altered or repaired without legal ramifications?

A helmet should not be altered. Any change or modification in the configuration of the shell or liner materials from manufacturing specifications could substantially alter the performance of the helmet as a unit, causing a change in helmet performance, and possibly exposing the individual responsible to liability. Individual helmet models are certified in the condition and configuration in which they were manufactured, and any alteration, modification, or change from the manufacturing specifications could affect the model's performance on the NOCSAE certification test. By following proper installation procedures and using replacement parts, which meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications, skilled repair of a football helmet should not affect the integrity of the energy attenuation system. It is suggested that the manufacturer be consulted before any materials are applied to the helmet such as, but not limited to, paint, wax, thinners, solvents, vinyl tape designs, cleaning agents, etc.

When a football face mask is replaced under the guidelines of the manufacturer, does a helmet lose its certification?

No. The NOCSAE Football Helmet Standard does not include the testing of helmets with facemasks. If, in the attachment of a mask, procedures other than those recommended by the manufacturer are used, then it is the discretion and responsibility of the institution and its employees to determine if the helmet should be submitted for recertification.

Which reconditioner's can recertify previously certified football helmets?

Only those helmets, which met the NOCSAE test standards when manufactured, may be recertified.
All NAERA members are licensed by NOCSAE and comply with the recertification standards and may recertify helmets. An appropriate NOCSAE seal affixed by the reconditioner inside the helmet identifies such recertified helmets: "This helmet has been RECERTIFIED according to the procedures established to meet the NOCSAE STANDARD".