Are ATVs/Quads/4-Wheelers Street Legal? How To Make It Legal

If you’ve ever wondered about the rules and regulations surrounding ATVs and their use on public roads, you’re in the right place. ATVs have long been favored for off-road adventures, but their street legality varies depending on numerous factors. So, can you make an ATV street legal?

Join me and explore the complexities and considerations involved in making a 4 wheeler legal to drive on streets, including safety requirements, modifications, and the specific regulations governing their use.

Depending on your state, a four-wheeler/ATV/quad may or may not be legal on public roads. Some states enable 4 wheelers to be registered and titled as street-legal vehicles with some requirements, like Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Utah, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, etc.

4 Wheelers drive on street
4 Wheelers drive on street

For example, 4-wheelers must generally have headlights, taillights, turn signals, and a horn in order to be deemed street-legal. They could also need to have insurance and a license plate.

Here are the states that will permit your ATV if you make some adjustments.

Alaska

ATV usage in Alaska is subject to several street legal regulations. In addition to a few conditional settings, these include crossing the street, particularly when bad weather ordinarily makes using a vehicle impractical.

Arizona

The state has reasonably simple-to-follow standards that enable street-legal operation of ATV. You must give your ATV a title in order to receive an OHV decal. After that, register the vehicle for use in controlled locations such as highways.

Arkansas

ATV use in this state must follow conditional street legal conditions. A properly functioning spark arrestor and exhaust system are required for your ATV. A minimum age of 12 is also needed in Arkansas to operate this vehicle.

California

For an ATV to be considered street legal, it must be used in only a few specific circumstances, such as crossing a two-lane street at a 90-degree angle, directly crossing a street with more than two lanes when there are clear signs posted allowing ATV use and operating one on public roads with a public authority’s permission.

Florida

ATVs are not permitted to be driven on public roads. Still, they are allowed to be on unpaved public roads if it’s during the day and at speeds under 35 mph.

Hawaii

The state generally forbids using ATVs on public streets, but there are various exceptions to this rule. The usage for agricultural purposes, some types of valid driver’s licenses, and on minor roads with slow speed restrictions. Also, in sparsely populated areas, as well as authorized officials are among the exceptions.

Iowa

Using an ATV is subject to street legal rules. ATV use is generally prohibited on public streets, but where it is permitted, riders are required to have insurance on the vehicles.

Kansas

The regulations for using an ATV on Kansas’ streets are relatively lenient. These off-road vehicles can be utilized on public roadways in communities where the population is less than 15,000, but if you want to ride at night, your ATV needs to have lights.

Louisiana

Despite being extremely lenient, this state comes with conditional street legal restrictions for ATV use. Except on interstates and in Orleans Parish, these all-terrain vehicles can be legally ridden on the public streets. This is only authorized in the brief window of time between a half-hour after dawn and sunset.

Maine

When other local authorities and signage accept ATV usage on public streets, you must ride on roads permitted by the Commissioner of Transportation, between the hours of sunrise and dusk, during an emergency or other special event.

Nebraska

State-wide regulations restrict the usage of ATVs to 2-lane roads when necessary, such as when they are used outside of cities or when specifically permitted.

New Hampshire

Unless local jurisdictions decide otherwise, this state has conditional street legal standards for ATV use on public roads. There are roads designed particularly for their usage. 

For example, crossing the street and using a trail are both acceptable activities when traveling under 10 mph and in the far-right lane.

Oklahoma

It has constrained rules for the usage of ATVs on public streets. They include the use in state parks, places where municipal jurisdiction preempts a statutory ban on their use, and sites with set speed limits. 

ATV usage on Oklahoma’s public streets is subject to local regulations, which can vary greatly from one area of the state to another.

Pennsylvania

Conditional criteria for street-legal ATVs are applied in the state unless the local authorities decide the opposite. Signage indicating which public streets are open to these vehicles can be found there. You must adhere to strict regulations for them, including safety, licensing, age restrictions, and more.

South Dakota

Although these restrictions are somewhat lenient, South Dakota has conditional criteria for street-legal ATV use throughout the state. If your ATV is a quad or bigger with a minimum engine capacity of 200cc, you can register it.

Tennessee

The state has constrained rules regarding street-legal ATV use, unless local authority rules differently. Although UTVs are much more welcomed around the state. ATVs are typically not allowed on public streets, with the exception of those used for farming or while crossing to get to an area where they are permitted.

Utah

ATV use is only permitted on public streets in Utah under certain conditions. Though you are still only allowed to travel at a top speed of 50 mph, you can convert the vehicle to be street legal, giving you access to many more locations and public roads.

Vermont

Vermont’s conditional rules for street-legal ATV use are enforced throughout the state. There are numerous exceptions to the ban on ATVs, though. ATV use is permitted throughout the state during certain seasons, for agricultural and public works purposes.

West Virginia 

For ATV use that is accepted on public streets, West Virginia has some restrictions. These can differ according to the local government, but they often let ATVs travel on roads with fewer than two lanes and no middle line.

Wisconsin

Depending on the local authority, Wisconsin has conditional rules for using ATVs on public streets. These include adhering to posted instructions, using a road for agricultural uses, using different conditions close to a ditch or an unimproved right-of-way, observing age limitations, and maintaining suitable safety equipment.

Note

You should get in touch with your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) if you have any questions about whether your four-wheeler is permitted to drive on public roads in your state.

ATVs are not street legal in some states due to several reasons related to disruption, safety, regulation, and infrastructure. One primary reason is that they are designed for off-road use and may lack certain features necessary for safe operation on streets.

These vehicles typically have characteristics like wide tires, high ground clearance, and a low-pressure suspension system, making them unstable and unsafe for street use. 

Additionally, they often lack essential components like headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, and other safety features required by road traffic regulations.

Another reason for the restriction is the difference in speed capabilities. ATVs are generally designed for off-road recreational purposes. They may have higher speeds compared to traditional on-road vehicles, making them less compatible with the traffic flow on public streets.

Furthermore, many states have restrictions on ATVs due to concerns about the impact on infrastructure. They have higher ground pressure and can cause significant damage to road surfaces not designed to handle their weight and tire configuration. This can lead to increased road maintenance costs and potential hazards for other vehicles.

Honda 300 Fourtrax exterior
Honda 300 Fourtrax exterior

You can follow this procedure to make your 4-wheelers lawful to cruise on streets.

Step 1: Research local laws and regulations

Before beginning the process, do research and understand the specific requirements and restrictions for making an ATV street legal in your area. Contact your local DMV or transportation authority to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the necessary procedures and modifications.

Step 2: Obtain the necessary documentation

Gather all the required documentation before proceeding. This typically includes proof of ownership, such as the ATV’s title or bill of sale. Check if your state requires ATV registration and insurance. Some states may also need a safety inspection or emissions testing before making an ATV street legal.

Step 3: Install safety features

To meet the street legal requirements, add essential safety features to your ATV. These may cover headlights, taillights, turn signals, rearview mirrors, a horn, and a valid license plate bracket.

Ensure that these additions are compliant with local regulations regarding size, positioning, and visibility. It is advisable to purchase DOT-approved lights and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.

Step 4: Modify the exhaust system

Check if your ATV’s exhaust system meets noise and emission standards for street use. If necessary, install a muffler or spark arrester that meets legal requirements. 

This helps to reduce noise pollution and ensures compliance with local regulations. Consult your ATV manufacturer or a trusted mechanic to determine suitable options for your ATV model.

Step 5: Add street tires

Replace off-road tires with appropriate street tires that are approved for highway use. Street tires provide better traction and handling on paved surfaces.

Ensure the tires are the correct size and have adequate tread depth for safe road use. Verify that the tires meet the Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements by looking for the DOT symbol on the sidewall.

Step 6: Install street-legal accessories

Consider adding additional accessories that enhance safety and compliance with vehicular traffic laws. Some common accessories include a speedometer, odometer, and functioning brake light.

I made a purchase with my Polaris Sportsman 570 a couple of years ago. My hometown is Arizona, and ATVs are not 100% illegal there. I have to make a few changes to the vehicles so that they can be legal, including at least 1 tail light, a headlight (visible from 500 ft ahead), and a muffler. I also had to upgrade my brake to a more advanced system to ensure spot-on braking performance on the go.

These additions improve visibility, allow you to monitor your speed, and signal your intentions to other road users. Ensure that these accessories are properly installed and calibrated.

Side-By-Side atv

Step 7: Schedule an inspection

Contact the appropriate authorities, such as the DMV or local law enforcement, to schedule an inspection of your modified ATV.

During the inspection, they will assess whether your ATV meets the necessary requirements for street use. This may include verifying the installation and functionality of the added safety features, checking the tires, and ensuring compliance with emission standards.

Step 8: Complete the registration process

Once your ATV passes the inspection, follow the registration process to obtain a street-legal license plate and registration documents. Visit your local DMV office and provide the required documentation, namely proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and any inspection certificates. Pay the necessary registration fees and taxes as per your state’s conditional requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fast Do ATVs Go?

The top speed of the majority of ATVs ranges from 50 to 90 miles per hour. Still, notice that these vehicles can vary in speed depending on their size, engine size, and terrain conditions.

Is 100 Hours A Lot For An ATV?

Yes, 100 hours can be considered a lot for an ATV, depending on how it has been used and maintained. ATVs are designed to be durable and capable of handling substantial hours of operation, but the lifespan of an ATV can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, usage conditions, and the quality of the components.

How Common Are ATV Accidents?

ATV accidents are relatively common, with thousands of accidents occurring each year. From Jan 1, 2016 to Dec 31, 2020, the emergency rooms of U.S. hospitals will treat 112,300 injuries related to OHVs, according to the CPSC. 96% of OHV injuries over this five-year period had ATVs as the implicated vehicle.

The Bottom Line

The question of whether a street legal quad exists is not a straightforward one. While some states allow certain types of ATVs to be operated on public roads, there are numerous regulations and requirements that must be met to ensure compliance with safety standards.

From proper equipment installation to modifications and adherence to local laws, making an ATV street legal requires careful consideration and attention to detail.

It is crucial to thoroughly research and understand your area’s specific rules and regulations before attempting to ride an ATV on public roads. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when operating any vehicle, on or off-road.

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Daniel Barker

Motorcyclist

Daniel Barker was introduced to racing in 2006 when he experienced his first track day on his Suzuki sv650. With more than 15 years of experience on his track. Daniel is known as for his high-energy riding, drifting, precision stoppies and technical riding ability on virtually any motorcycle.


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