Are ATVs Street Legal in Tennessee: Important Things You Need to Know

Are ATVs Street Legal in Tennessee

Photo by Kevin Wiegand on Unsplash

It’s a lot of fun to ride an ATV (all-terrain vehicle). But are ATVs street legal in Tennessee? Many people in Tennessee wonder whether they are breaking the law if they drive their ATVs on the sidewalks and roadways. 

You’ve come to the right place if you own an ATV and want to know whether it’s allowed in your state. In this ultimate guide, you will know about the legality of ATVs/off highway motor vehicles in Tennessee. In addition, you will also learn what steps must be taken to make an ATV lawful to ride on public roads.

Are ATVs Street Legal in Tennessee?

Off highway vehicles (ATVs) are prohibited to drive on public roads in the Volunteer State. Even if you have a license and insurance, you still cannot operate an ATV on public highways or pathways in Tennessee. ATVs are prohibited to drive on all public roadways, from state highways to local streets. The sole situation where this law does not apply is when ATVs are utilized for agricultural tasks like farming or ranching.

There is a potential $200 fine for operating an ATV on a public road. In certain areas of the Volunteer State, ATV use is permitted by local law enforcement authorities. ATVs are not allowed to be driven on state roads, interstate highways, or highways in the defense highway system in Tennessee.

Areas that are open to medium speed vehicles/ATVs include off-road parks and trails. Knowing the rules and restrictions for operating an off highway vehicle in Tennessee is crucial if you do want to ride it on public roads. 

How Can You Make ATV Street Legal? 

For an ATV/low speed vehicle to be used on public roads in Tennessee, you must first fulfill certain conditions. Here are some necessary things to make ATV street legal.

  • Tennessee law mandates the licensing and registration of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) with the Tennessee department of motor vehicles.
  • Insuring your ATVs is a must.
  • All of the lights on the ATVs need to be working properly.
  • The medium speed vehicle must have a working horn and steering wheel.
  • All ATV drivers must have valid driver’s licenses.

Eligible Riders

In Tennessee State, ATV riders must be at least 16 years old and should have a valid driving license to legally operate an ATV on public roadways.

Driver must wear a helmet while riding. Additionally, all riders are encouraged to wear protective gear like long pants, boots, and gloves.

ATVs are not allowed on interstate highways or any road with a posted speed limit greater than 35mph. 

Here’s How 5 Star Registration Can Help You to Make ATV Street Legal in Tennessee

5 Star Registration

All the necessary changes must be made to ATVs before they may be operated on public roads lawfully. The procedure of making an ATV street legal in Tennessee can be tough for a newbie.

Consulting with the experts at 5 Star Registration will save you time and money. You won’t need to worry about anything since they will handle everything for you. They’ll take care of the appropriate documentation to get your ATV registered and on the road.

Once your ATV is registered, insured, and equipped with appropriate safety features, you may begin enjoying the benefits of owning a street-legal motor vehicle.

Email or Call experts at 5 Star Registration & start the process of making your ATV street legal in Tennessee. 

Tips on Safely Driving an ATV on Public Roads

To safely operate an ATV on public/county roads, you must be knowledgeable and compliant with all relevant traffic regulations. These suggestions can be helpful for you:

  • Wear a protective helmet and other safety gear while driving.
  • Drive safely by keeping an eye out for other vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Always give yourself plenty of distance while passing another motorized vehicle and use turn signals.
  • Drive at a safe speed that complies with state regulations. The risk of collision rises dramatically when a driver exceeds safe speeds.

Your chances of driving safely and legally on public roads will increase if you follow these suggestions.

Final Thoughts

Even though all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are legal to use on private property, in the state of Tennessee they must be modified before being driven on public roads. It is also important to be aware of the laws of your jurisdiction to prevent any legal issues.

You can also contact 5 Star Register to make your ATV/UTV street legal in Tennessee. Taking the right steps can help ensure that you have a fun and safe experience while riding your ATV in Tennessee.   

Read our other helpful guides here

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