Rules

ATV registration & OHV permits (Utah example)

What registration, permits and education an ATV rider needs, using Utah as a worked example: resident registration, the $35 non-resident permit, the free adult OHV course, youth rules and dune flags.

Updated Oct 25, 2026

The Three Peaks OHV Trailhead sign and boulders at a gravel trailhead near Cedar City, Utah
Three Peaks OHV Trailhead near Cedar City, Utah (BLM). Photo: BLMUtah, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped, resized WebP)

Quick answer

Every state is different, but you usually need: the machine registered (or a non-resident permit), proof of any required OHV education, and to ride only on routes open to your vehicle. In Utah (as of 2026-10-25): residents register through the DMV and display an OHV plate; visitors buy a $35 non-resident permit per machine valid 12 months; every adult operator needs the free one-time online OHV education course; youth need an approved youth course.

The general pattern

  1. Title and register the ATV in your home state (OHV registration, not road plates, unless you make it street legal).
  2. Visiting another state? Many states require a non-resident OHV permit or sticker.
  3. Education: many states require a safety course for youth; some (like Utah) now require one for adults too.
  4. Where you ride: land managers designate open routes. Registration does not make a closed trail legal.
  5. Equipment: spark arrestor, lights, flags in some dune areas, helmets for some ages.

Utah example (Ivins / St. George area riders)

Utah residentsRegister through the Utah DMV. Since January 1, 2023, Utah-registered OHVs other than motorcycles and snowmobiles must display an OHV license plate. Registrations commonly renew in the month of purchase.
VisitorsEach qualifying ATV (and each other off-highway vehicle the rule covers, such as a side-by-side, off-highway motorcycle or snowmobile) brought from another state needs a Utah non-resident permit: $35, valid 12 months. Out-of-state street-legal OHVs also generally need one under requirements effective September 8, 2026.
Adults (18+)Complete the free, one-time online Adult OHV Education Course (about 30 minutes) and carry the certificate (PDF or digital wallet credential).
Youth (<18)Need an approved youth OHV education certificate; visiting youth too. Direct adult supervision within 300 ft, with an exception for 16-17-year-olds holding a driver license and the youth certificate.
HelmetsRiders under 18 must wear a DOT-rated helmet on Type I ATVs on public land. The state recommends helmets for everyone.
PassengersFollow the manufacturer's seating limits. Most ATVs are 1-rider; carry a passenger only on a 2-up (touring/MAX) model.
Dunes (e.g., Sand Hollow, Coral Pink, Little Sahara)Whip flag at least 6 x 12 in, at least 8 ft above the ground (helmet mounts allowed if 18 in above the rider's head).
Street-legal ATVPossible in Utah after a safety inspection, title/registration and required highway equipment; needs a driver license and insurance; not allowed on interstates. The tan OHV plate is not street legal.

Summary as of 2026-10-25 from the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and Utah DMV pages below. Rules change; always confirm on the official pages before you ride.

Sources

Researched Oct 25, 2026. Rules, specs and prices change; confirm with the source.