ATV Laws in AZ: Everything You Need to Know

Arizona is a beautiful state in the southern part of the United States. It's known for its desert landscapes and rugged terrain, which invite outdoor adventurers who want to explore these areas and experience all the state has to offer. Many Arizona residents and visitors enjoy exploring the landscapes on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility terrain vehicle (UTV). If you plan to take an ATV or UTV out in the state, it's essential to understand the laws that apply to these vehicles.

What Are ATV Laws in Arizona?

ATV laws in Arizona exist to keep ATV and UTV riders safe while protecting the natural landscape. The Arizona Department of Transportation issues, maintains, updates, and enforces the Arizona UTV laws. Those who plan to ride their vehicles in the state should check back regularly to make sure nothing has changed since the last time they reviewed the rules. Any vehicle that drives off the highway is known as an off-highway vehicle (OHV). Many of the same laws apply concerning Arizona OHV laws.

Since Arizona has multiple state parks within its borders, riding an ATV or UTV within a state park is a popular pastime. Riders are permitted to take their vehicles to these parks. However, they must follow the rules when navigating the curves and exploring the landscape. Before heading out on a ride, use the Arizona State Land Department website to view a map of land ownership status, which you can use to check the regulations and rules for using this land.

Equipment Requirements

The first set of regulations that apply to UTV and ATV riders pertains to the equipment used while riding. All riders younger than age 18 must wear a properly fitting and fastened helmet approved by the Arizona Department of Transportation. The DOT strongly recommends helmets for those 18 years and older as well. All ATVs and UTVs operating within the state must have a noise dissipative device or muffler that keeps the sound emitted from the vehicle below 96 decibels.

Additionally, all vehicles must bear a U.S. Department of Agriculture-approved spark arrestor device to reduce the risk of starting a fire. Since much of the terrain in Arizona include dry brush, even a tiny spark from a vehicle could result in significant levels of fire damage. Preventing fires is essential when riding. An ATV or UTV must have working brakes with a brake light and a minimum of one red rear reflector if the vehicle doesn't have a reflecting taillight. It is against OHV laws in Arizona to sell a new OHV without a brake light. 

If you ride your ATV or UTV between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise, you must have illuminated taillights and headlights for safety. When riding in the state's sand dunes and other areas designated by the local land management agency, your vehicle must have a safety flag to improve visibility. The flag should be attached to the vehicle and flown at least 8 feet higher than the ground's surface. It should also measure at least 6 inches by 12 inches in size.

An ATV or UTV in operation in Arizona must also include a rearview mirror, plus a seat and footrests for the driver. If the vehicle can carry passengers, it must have a designated seat and footrests for each passenger. Drivers must register their vehicles through the state DOT, and the license plate issued at the time of registration should be attached. Those living in the Tucson and Phoenix metro areas must undergo emissions testing on their OHVs. When driving on a street or highway, you must wear eye protection.

Riding Laws

The state of Arizona also has laws in place that dictate how to ride an ATV or UTV safely. The first requires the vehicles to remain on roads, trails, and areas designated by the land management agency to use motorized vehicles.

You may be wondering, "Are ATVs street legal in Arizona?" You cannot legally drive an ATV or UTV on a main road in many places, but operators can use a street-legal ATV on Arizona paved roads designated for this type of vehicle. Vehicle operators need to remain on the designated roads, trails, and paths, avoiding damage to riparian areas, natural or cultural resources, wildlife habitats, private property, or areas undergoing improvements. 

Riders may not recklessly operate UTVs or ATVs, nor may they operate such a vehicle when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When riding, you must avoid removing or placing regulatory signs, destroying protected native plants, or use your vehicle to harass any wildlife you encounter during your ride.

Title and Registration Plate

All vehicle operators must register their OHVs and complete Arizona UTV registration requirements, which encompass all-terrain vehicles, trail motorcycles, and dirt bikes. When you register your vehicle, you will receive a designated OHV decal, which you must affix to the vehicle on the upper-left corner of the license plate. The state DOT also issues off-road and RV license plates to vehicle owners. If you plan to drive on any roads on which a passenger vehicle can also drive, you will need to register your vehicle separately as a street-legal OHV. 

When registering your OHV, you must have an Arizona Certificate of Title issued in your name for the vehicle. After receiving the required OHV decal, affix it to the license plate and make sure it's visible from the vehicle's rear. After one year, the OHV decal expires, so keep track of the date to avoid expiration when you're out on the trails.

Nonresident ATV, OHV, and UTV Riders

If you do not live in Arizona, you can request a nonresident OHV decal, which you must purchase before riding your vehicle within the state's borders. This decal is valid for one year from the date of purchase and is available through the Arizona Game and Fish Department's website. 

Responsible recreation ensures that all ATV and UTV riders can take advantage of the natural beauty found throughout the state of Arizona. By following the laws and regulations, you can also play your part in avoiding damage to the natural surroundings and protecting the wildlife. If you want to take your ride to the next level, explore the Powersports Audio line from Wet Sounds, which includes audio equipment that affixes to your vehicle so that you can enjoy your favorite playlist when you're out on the trails.