ATVs on Road: Where They Are Street Legal

In the United States, the legality of driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) on public roads varies significantly between states and municipalities. Generally, a vehicle must meet certain criteria to be considered "street legal," such as having turn signals, brake lights, and a speedometer, in addition to passing an inspection. However, the definition of what constitutes a street-legal vehicle can differ. It is important to note that even within states that allow ATVs on the road, there are often restrictions on where these vehicles can be driven and on their use in certain weather conditions.
The distinction in regulations may seem confusing, but it is largely attributable to the power that states and localities have to regulate their own transportation laws under the Tenth Amendment of the U . S. Constitution. This means that within the framework of federal motor vehicle standards, each state has the authority to set its own rules for what types of vehicles can use its roadways. Moreover, states also grant municipalities the power to enact their own regulations that can further restrict or expand the use of ATVs and other off-road vehicles on their roads.
The best approach is to check with your state’s Department or Board of Motor Vehicles to determine the specific requirements. It is also crucial to verify if local ordinances are more restrictive than state laws before taking your ATV out on any road; otherwise, you may end up with an expensive fine.

States Allowing ATVs on the Road

The following is a list of U.S. states in which ATVs are considered street legal; however, each state has its own handful of restrictions and/or conditions for allowing ATVs on public roadways. In Arizona, street-legal ATVs are permitted on public roads if the vehicles are registered with the Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles and equipped with a special-use sticker as well as comply with additional safety specifications as required by law. Generally, safety requirements that allow for street-legal ATVs include things like having adequate brakes, functioning headlights, taillights and brake lights, as well as having to run only on low-pressure tires. Other states with similar laws regarding the street legality of ATVs are:

• Arkansas
• West Virginia
• Texas
• Maine
• Mississippi
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Utah

State Requirements for Making ATVs Street Legal

Some common modifications or features that may help an ATV become street legal include the addition of headlights, turn signals, brake lights, windshield wipers and license plates. These features are considered to be necessary for safe travel on public roads. However, it is important to understand that states and localities have different requirements for ATVs.
For example, in many states, ATVs need to be insured in order to travel on public roads. There are a variety of insurance companies that may be able to help you obtain coverage for your ATV. At the very least, you should plan on obtaining the minimum liability coverage required by the state or locality in which you reside.
Additionally, you should be aware that most states and localities require ATVs to have safety-related markings and or features in order to be used on public roads. Some common safety-related features that may be required include: working headlights, taillights and brake lights, and side and rear reflectors or tape.

Pros and Cons of ATVs on Public Roads

ATVs are not designed for street use, however many people still find ways to use them on the street. Whether you have a dirt bike, ATV, or UTV, when they are modified to be street legal, there are several things to take into consideration. There are safety and legal requirements for the operator and the vehicle itself that differ in every state. If you are traveling outside of your home state, follow the laws in that state’s jurisdiction prior to operating a street approved ATV or UTV.
There are numerous benefits to having an ATV that is street approved. By making your ATV street legal, you open the capability of operating your vehicle on several roads and highways with ease and convenience. While you can operate most ATVs on trails as long as the trails allow such vehicles, you cannot ride ATVs on roads unless you qualify as a street legal ATV. You will also be more comfortable on the road because you are abiding by the law. You will have peace of mind that you are in compliance by taking the necessary steps to make the ATV street worthy.
Though there are several benefits to riding a street legal ATV, there are also some cons. The most noteworthy drawback is road safety. To get that peace of mind while operating your vehicle on the road, there are serious safety measures you need to take. ATV operators must be diligent and practice cautious driving habits. Additionally, there are several rules and regulations outlined by the state that can limit driver flexibility on the road. Things such as speed limits, maintaining proper space on the roadway, and following the signs and markings can impact your driving experience. This also includes following several other regulations such as driver registration, vehicle registration, emissions testing, and seatbelt and helmet laws. Each state will have its own rules and regulations and a failure to comply can result in pricey consequences.

Steps to Register an ATV for the Road

When it comes to registering an ATV for street use, most states require proof of ownership, proof of residence, and proof of insurance or financial responsibility. Where ATVs are required to be registered in order to operate them on public roadways, the registration process typically involves completing an application for registration with specific documentation and payment.
While many states operate under the basic registration scheme described above, a number of states require extra steps in the registration process. Depending on the state, registration fees can be minimal ($8) to extremely costly ($600). In most cases, registering an ATV for street use will require payment of an annual fee, as opposed to a one-time fee. Fees usually require additional payment for titling an ATV. Some states require inspection of the ATV before authorizing issuance of a plate, decal, or sticker.
A handful of states do not specifically allow ATV registration. Some states allow their authorized agents (principally automobile dealerships) to register an ATV for street use. Others allow limited registration, permitting their authorized agent to register the ATV to the extent it complies with standards for a motorcycle , as D.C. permits registration of ATVs that meet certain criteria.
Some states do not require ATVs to be registered in order to operate them on public roadways. These states include Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. In other states, registration is not required for limited operation of the ATV on public roadways. For instance, Colorado does not generally require an ATV to be registered to operate it on public roadways, but if it meets weight requirements, it must be registered for limited use.
Even in states where registration is not required, some municipalities require owners to register the ATV to operate it on public roadways within the municipality. For example, Texas does not require an ATV to be registered in order to operate it on public roadways. However, Dallas County does require an owner to register the ATV for operation on public roadways in Dallas County.
Word of caution, don’t assume an ATV, regardless of its manufacturer, is street legal in your state. Call your local Department of Motor Vehicles, Go-Kart manufacturers, or ATV dealers to get accurate information about where you can operate your ATV on public roadways.

State Focus: Unique ATV Regulations

While many of the laws on the books apply to most or all states, there are a select few that stand out for either their uniqueness, the exceptions they offer, or even the distinct way in which they prohibit certain actions on public roadways. For those who are interested, we’ve outlined some of these here:
Utah – In Utah, ATVs can be street legal on roads where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less, and, excitingly, this covers all of Moab, a town that draws tourists for its beautiful scenery and fabulous outdoor recreation.
South Dakota – unfortunately for riders in South Dakota, they cannot drive ATVs on state-maintained roads without an exception in place. And while some counties within South Dakota allow for exceptions, many, like Lyman County, do not. Residents should know their local regulations.
New Hampshire – in the state of New Hampshire, ATVs can be driven on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less, but, critically, only if they are registered as ATVs with the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR). ATVs that are not registered as ATVs are not allowed to drive on public roadways.
Rhode Island – while ATVs cannot be operated on public roadways, Rhode Island has made some effort to ease the blow of that prohibition by designating five state-owned corridors that allow for ATV use, as long as riders first register with the local recreation office for the area.

ATVs on Public Roads: The Future

As technology continues to evolve, the future of ATVs on public roads may undergo significant changes. The introduction of advanced driver-assistance systems, autonomous vehicles, and improved safety features could potentially alter public perceptions and legislation surrounding their use. For example, if ATVs become capable of driving themselves, or if they are equipped with collision avoidance systems, legislators may be more inclined to support their use on public roads.
Environmental concerns and sustainability efforts may also influence future legislation on ATV use. As the push for eco-friendliness becomes stronger in various industries, lawmakers may consider regulations that ensure ATVs have a lower environmental impact. This could lead to stricter emissions standards and requirements for owner education on responsible riding in ecologically sensitive areas.
Social factors will also play a role in the future of ATVs on public roads. As owning an ATV becomes more mainstream , there may be greater demand for them to be integrated into everyday life. Nevertheless, this might require significant infrastructure and policy changes, since ATVs differ considerably from conventional vehicles, both in terms of their physical design and their intended use.
Furthermore, a new trend in ATV ownership is the rise of electric ATVs. If electric models become popular and are able to average the same speeds as gas-powered models, their integration into public roads could become even more likely. However, the necessary infrastructure would also need to be installed to handle their needs.
which direction the regulations will eventually go, it is vital to stay informed about local and state ATV laws. The landscape for ATVs on public roads is still developing, but these trends, technologies, and shifts in public policy may shape their future in ways not yet fully understood.