Do you have a UTV? You might ask yourself, “Can a UTV be street legal”? The answer is Yes, it can – but there are a lot of things you need to do in order to make it happen. You may have heard there are some modifications you need to do to make UTV street legal, but you need to figure out what they are.
Don’t worry, you are at the right place, we’re here to help you. This article covers each and every piece of information required to make UTV street legal. You will know the parts required to make UTV street legal, as well as the state laws and regulations that apply to UTVs.
What is UTV?
Before starting anything, first, you should have to understand what UTV is.
UTVs acronym for Utility Terrain Vehicles, are off-road vehicles that are used for farming, wrenching, mining, and other works. They are larger and more powerful than ATVs and have a variety of features that make them perfect for off roading.
In reality, UTVs are not designed for street use, but if you want – you can do it. These vehicles are built to do work rather than recreation.
Can A UTV Be Street Legal? Everything You Need to Know
Local Laws Regarding UTV Street Legal
Most states don’t allow UTVs on public streets. But somehow there are a few exceptions such as a specific statute regulating the usage of utility terrain vehicles on a public street in some states. Or in states that have a pilot program in place to allow UTVs on certain streets.
If you want to enjoy riding on your UTV on public roads, you need to make it street-legal. This means that you must make some modifications to it, including adding lights and reflectors and adding a horn, turn signals, and a windshield and side view mirror. You may also need to add seatbelts and a roll bar. There can be additional conditions, such as licensing and registration.
Parts Needed
It’s important to get in touch with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to learn what adjustments are necessary to make your UTV street legal in your area.
Every state has different laws regarding UTVs street legality, so make sure to know about it. Also if you are going to travel with your UTV in different states, you must know those states’ rules and regulations regarding transport.
Here are some of the common parts you’ll need for your UTV:
- A rearview mirror: In some states, at least one rearview mirror is required, but having two or even three can make additional safety when driving UTVs/Side by Sides on public streets.
- A horn: Horns are a must-have for street-legal UTVs. Not only do they let other drivers know you are there, but they can also help alert wildlife to your presence.
- Headlights & taillights/brake lights: For obvious reasons, having headlights, taillights, and license plate light makes street-legal ATV/UTV more visible when driving in low light conditions or at night – and they are usually required in most states.
- Seatbelts: These are not always needed by local law – but using them is always a wise decision.
- A noise abatement device: Usually this is some type of muffler or sparks arrester, which will help your UTV run quieter.
Registration
To register your UTV, you should collect all the documents required for the registration process such as the title of ownership, bill of sale, and insurance paper. To submit the registration and payment, visit your neighborhood motor vehicle department.
Once you have all the materials ready and submitted to your DMV office, you may need to pass a written test regarding traffic laws and regulations before you are given a license plate.
Tips for Safety When Riding a UTV on Public Roads
Safety is essential to keep in mind while riding your UTV on public streets. This is important whether you’re driving a street-legal UTV or an off-road vehicle with a permit.
- First of all, make sure to have complete safety equipment to drive UTV, such as
- Helmet
- Eye Protection
- Safety flag
- Don’t drive above the posted speed limits. Always drive with reasonable speed.
- Obey all the local traffic laws.
- Make sure to be aware of hazards like potholes or slippery surfaces.
- Use caution when navigating curves or approaching intersections.
- When changing lanes, use your turn signals.
Remember, safety is always a top priority when driving vehicles on public roads/interstate highways.
Some Other Requirements to Make a UTV Street-Legal
There are some other requirements that you should have to keep in mind when making your UTV/Side by Side street legal.
The first and foremost thing to consider is that your UTV must have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is compulsory in order for your street legal vehicle to be registered.
Second, you will also need to ensure that your UTV meets federal safety standards.
Make sure to double-check the local UTV/ATV laws regarding any further restrictions and contact your local DMV office for details about making your UTV street-legal.
Here’s How 5 Star Registration Can Help You to Make UTV Street Legal
Making a UTV street legal may be a lengthy and difficult process if you have never done it before. 5 Star Registration specializes in assisting riders with getting their off-road vehicles registered and authorized for usage on public roads. With their support, the process can be made simpler with ease.
Helping you make your UTV street legal with little effort is 5 Star Registration’s mission. They’ll oversee the paperwork and rules to help you ride your UTV on the road lawfully.
Email or call the experts at 5 Star Registration to start the process of making your UTV street legal.
Can A UTV Be Street Legal: Conclusion
Making UTV street legal depends on your local state law. In order to make a UTV street legal, you will need to follow several steps, which include:
- Complete all street legal requirements, including the correct lights, reflectors, turn signals, horn, seatbelt, and signage.
- Register your UTV with the DMV.
- Get a valid driver’s license for your UTV from the DMV.
- Pass a safety inspection test.
- Get a license plate.
As you can see, making a UTV street legal requires a little bit more effort than other off highway vehicles. However, in the end, it’s well worth it, as you will be able to enjoy your UTV on the open road.
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