How to make a atv street legal in wisconsin


How to Make a UTV Street Legal in Wisconsin — Dirt Legal

Many of Wisconsin’s rural roads are open to off-highway vehicles. Approved roads statewide, designated as ATV Routes, are open to many types of OHVs including UTVs and side-by-sides. However, it is impossible to register a UTV in Wisconsin as a regular street legal vehicle for reasons discussed below.

It is possible to make a UTV street legal in Wisconsin by registering in another state. The resulting title, registration, and license plate will allow you to drive your side-by-side on roads, highways, and city streets in Wisconsin and beyond.

This page covers street legal UTVs in Wisconsin from top to bottom including relevant laws, details about OHV areas, and times when UTVs that are not registered as street legal can be driven on local roads. There’s a lot to cover here, so feel free to skip to what you’re looking for!

Registering out of state lets you use roads besides ATV Routes. You can also cross state lines. Dirt Legal makes it easy to register in other states. Click to learn more.

We have made our best effort to include all relevant details, but something we did not cover might apply to your situation. We are enthusiasts, not attorneys. This is not legal advice.

Contents

Registering a UTV as a regular street legal vehicle

Driving street legal UTVs registered out of state

Using Wisconsin’s OHV areas

Driving a UTV on Wisconsin ATV Routes

How Wisconsin defines off-highway vehicles

Laws, Codes, and Other Resources

What You Need to Know

  • Vehicle must be registered as an OHV with Wisconsin – nonresidents must also register

  • Drivers born on or after 1/1/1988 must pass a Wisconsin ATV Safety Course

  • Occupants younger than 18 must wear helmets

  • Auxiliary lights and nonstandard lighting colors usually can’t be used on-road

  • Vehicle exhaust must not exceed 96 dB(A)

  • Vehicle width cannot exceed 65”

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Why Wisconsin Can’t Register UTVs as Street Legal

Wisconsin allows local jurisdictions like towns, cities, and counties to designate public roads as ATV Routes. These roads are open to many types of off-highway vehicles including UTVs and side-by-sides. To use ATV Routes, qualifying vehicles need to obtain restricted-use license plates by registering with Wisconsin as an off-highway vehicle.

We will explore ATV Routes later on, but for the purpose of this section, the existence of such a wide-reaching program means Wisconsin has a high level of awareness about UTVs and side-by-sides and will not register them as regular street legal passenger vehicles regardless of what parts are installed.

Registering as a regular street legal vehicle through the Wisconsin DMV would also involve finding a category in the Wisconsin Motor Vehicle Code to register under, but none of the possible categories will accommodate a typical UTV.

  • Motorcycles cannot have more than 3 wheels and must have handlebars and straddle seating

  • Autocycles must have 3 wheels and be manufactured to meet federal motorcycle safety standards (49 CFR 571)

  • Low-Speed Vehicles must meet federal LSV standards including a top speed between 20 and 25 MPH (49 CFR 571.3 and 49 CFR 571.500)

  • Off-Road Utility Vehicles are owned or contracted by the government for uses like landscaping and waste disposal

  • Commercial Quadricycles are more commonly known as pedal pubs

Want to see the laws for yourself? Additional resources used to reach these conclusions are linked in the Laws, Codes, and Other Resources section below.

How to get street legal

Wisconsin’s endless miles of OHV trails make the state a popular destination for off-roaders across the United States and beyond, but the vast distances between trails can be problematic for getting the most out of a day’s sunlight, especially when you have to load up the tow rig to use roads that aren’t ATV Routes.

The Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF) states that “There is no residential access allowance that permits you to ride on a roadway from a dwelling to the nearest trail or route. You will need to haul your machine to the nearest legal access point” if a designated ATV Route does not connect you to it. This can easily turn into a serious hurdle, but there is a way to gain more freedom on the road in Wisconsin.

In states like Montana and South Dakota, the vehicle code allows UTVs to be registered as street legal vehicles. You can register your UTV in those states without ever leaving your home. Once registration is complete and the required equipment is installed, your UTV will be street legal in Wisconsin with an out-of-state registration (see How to Make Your UTV Street Legal).

Imagine driving your UTV for the entire journey without needing a truck and trailer to get you there. Take the family on the winding coulee roads to the Eau Galle Cheese Factory, take a day trip into the U. P., ride the highways connecting the many trails of Iron County, or pop down to Madison for dinner by the lake. Which lake? Your call.

If you can weather the coldest winter storm but shiver at the thought of DMV paperwork, let our team of experts register your UTV as street legal on your behalf while you plan your next great adventure.

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Parts Required to Register Out of State

The only way to make a UTV street legal in Wisconsin across the board is to register in another state, a process that doesn’t involve any parts specific to Wisconsin. Parts required for ATV Routes and road use of other UTVs are listed in a later section.

Thanks to reciprocity agreements between states, a vehicle only needs to have the parts required by the state where it is registered. That means a UTV with an out-of-state registration can be driven on Wisconsin roads without needing any equipment required by Wisconsin and without needing to pass a Wisconsin inspection.

There are also some parts we suggest leaving off which are rarely allowed on street legal vehicles in any state.

GET STREET LEGAL PARTS ON GRITSHIFT

Driving Street Legal UTVs Registered in Other States

Wisconsin vehicle registration reciprocity statute (excerpt)

Because street legal UTVs are a small niche, local law enforcement may not know that a UTV can be made street legal in Wisconsin by registering out of state. While we are not attorneys, we always suggest carrying physical copies of your UTV’s registration and insurance proofs and being knowledgeable about the ways your vehicle is legal for road use (see Knowing Your Legality).

Vehicles licensed in other states can be driven legally in Wisconsin thanks to registration reciprocity agreements between states. Wisconsin’s registration reciprocity statute is linked in the resources below. You should not need to worry about title transfer windows if you maintain residency in another state or your UTV is registered to an LLC in another state. In some cases, it might not be possible to transfer your registration to Wisconsin from another state because of vehicle type mismatches between states.

Helmet laws in Wisconsin

In considering whether helmets would be required for a vehicle registered out of state, since Wisconsin has such a significant street legal program of its own, it would be best to follow that program’s requirement of DOT helmets with fastened chin straps for occupants younger than 18. The same is required for any UTV operated in off-road locations like OHV areas, trails, and public lands.

It is also worth noting that Wisconsin requires motorcycle and autocycle riders younger than 18 to wear helmets (and all riders with instructional permits). Additionally, all riders must wear eye protection like glasses, goggles, or transparent face shields. The eye protection requirement is waived for autocycles with windshields and for motorcycles where the windshield extends more than 15” above the handlebars, but a street legal UTV does not fit Wisconsin’s definition of an autocycle or a motorcycle.

For safety reasons, we recommend helmets for all occupants while driving a street legal UTV on public roads. Keep in mind that helmet laws need to be followed on a state-by-state basis. Before you travel, learn the helmet situation in any state you plan to drive in. See other states

Using Wisconsin’s OHV Areas

Whenever you drive off-road in places like OHV areas, trails, and public lands, your UTV will be considered an off-highway vehicle even if it is registered as street legal.

  • The Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF) covers everything you need to know about OHVs in Wisconsin

  • Visit Wisconsin DNR: ATV and UTV Registration to get an OHV registration for your vehicle

  • You will not need to register your OHV with Wisconsin if it will only be in the state during the first full weekend in June

Equipment

Any UTV operated as an OHV in Wisconsin is required to have a Forest Service-qualified spark arrester and a good working muffler with a maximum volume of 96 dB(A). Other basic equipment is required like working lights and brakes. Street legal or not, all OHVs are subject to the statewide restrictions on auxiliary lighting explained below. Occupants younger than 18 are required to wear helmets in OHV areas. In Wisconsin, a UTV’s width cannot exceed 65” from the factory or through aftermarket modifications.

Individual OHV areas within Wisconsin often have their own requirements regarding equipment, engine size restrictions by rider age, helmets, or other factors, so be sure to check ahead when you plan to travel.

Registration

Whether your UTV is street legal or not, if you plan to operate as an off-highway vehicle in Wisconsin you must obtain an OHV Registration through Wisconsin and display the corresponding decals and rear license plate on your UTV.

If your UTV is street legal with an out-of-state registration, or if you are not a resident of Wisconsin, you can choose to get either a 5-day Trail Pass or a 1-year Nonresident OHV Registration from Wisconsin. If you store your vehicle in Wisconsin but are a nonresident, you will need to obtain a Wisconsin registration because of a specific law requiring in-state registration in this circumstance.

How to register

Registrations can be obtained online through the Wisconsin DNR, by mail after completing Application Form 9400-376 (PDF), in person at a DNR Service Location, or at any commercial ATV/UTV dealer in Wisconsin. If you register online or in person you can get a temporary registration instantly.

Design your own OHV license plate

Wisconsin allows you to design and build your own license plate for an off-highway vehicle. Learn more at Wisconsin DNR: ATV and UTV Registration under the section “Display of Decals and Rear Registration Plate.”

Use of ATV trails

Wisconsin refers to most OHVs using the umbrella term “ATV.” You will see the term ATV used by local OHV areas and on local signage, and unless otherwise stated that information also applies to UTVs and side-by-sides. Most of Wisconsin’s ATV trails are open to UTVs unless they are marked otherwise or limited by width but be sure to double-check this before you hit the road.

Required safety course

Drivers born on or after 1/1/1988 must pass a Wisconsin ATV Safety Course to operate a UTV or other off-highway vehicle on ATV Routes, trails, public lands, and other off-road riding areas throughout the state.

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Driving a UTV on Wisconsin ATV Routes

Hey! This section is about UTVs that have not been made street legal through the means described above.

This section is about vehicles that do not have street legal registrations.

Wisconsin’s robust off-highway vehicle program allows towns, cities, and other local jurisdictions to designate public roads as ATV Routes. Though the name implies these roads are just for conventional ATVs with handlebars, they are open to UTVs and other off-highway vehicles as well.

OHVs in Wisconsin are also allowed on seasonally maintained roads when maintenance is not occurring and can use roads and shoulders for the express purpose of crossing a bridge, culvert, or railroad. Crossing requirements are detailed below.

Outside of these circumstances, OHVs cannot be operated on shoulders, ditches, or any public road that is not designated for OHV use. OHVs are never allowed on interstate highways in Wisconsin.

We’ve done our best to cover the most important elements of this program in the following sections, but there is a lot that goes beyond the scope of this guide. Thankfully, there is the wonderful Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF) that should answer any other questions you have about OHVs in Wisconsin.

Which roads are open for off-highway vehicles in Wisconsin?

Approved roads and sections are marked with prominent green signage featuring a white ATV and an arrow indicating the route’s direction, along with additional signage at the beginning and end of each route. Approval can apply to just a few miles of a given road or the entire road from beginning to end, or every road in a town, or anything in between.

At the time of writing this guide, there is no official source listing which roads an OHV can drive on in Wisconsin. Several official and independent websites claim to show the state’s ATV Routes, but we have yet to find one that is accurate and up to date. Some of them even tell you that contacting the county directly is the only way to get accurate information.

Your best bet is to start by contacting someone in the area you plan to drive in. Contact a local DMV, OHV area, ATV club, or local law enforcement and ask if they can provide a localized ATV Route Map. Ask if any towns and cities have different road rules you need to know about. Here are some resources to get you started:

  • Official contact information for every county in Wisconsin

  • Wisconsin ATV and UTV Association: List of local ATV clubs

Online maps of Wisconsin ATV Routes

Discrepancies have been known to develop when online maps are not updated in a timely manner. In 2020 in Breckenridge, Colorado, Youtubers Our Keen Life were pulled over for driving on what an online map claimed to be an approved OHV route, only to discover the map had not been updated and the road was not actually approved.

We found this to be especially relevant in Wisconsin because none of the resources linked below seem to list the same ATV Routes. Our advice is to use the following resources for general information and contact someone on the local level before you put wheels on the ground. Please contact us if a better resource becomes available.

  • Official Wisconsin Cartographer’s Office ATV trail map resources

  • Official Wisconsin Department of Tourism ATV Travel Guide

  • Wisconsin ATV and UTV Association: Statewide Trail Map and Trails by County

  • Northwest Wisconsin: ATV and snowmobile corridors map

  • TrailLink Wisconsin: ATV Trails and Maps (Registration required for extended use)

  • ATV-WI. com: List of local ATV maps (Note: Page has some suspicious links)

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Can OHVs use other roads besides ATV Routes?

As stated in the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF), “There is no residential access allowance that permits you to ride on a roadway from a dwelling to the nearest trail or route. You will need to haul your machine to the nearest legal access point” if an approved ATV Route does not connect you to it. With that said, we called the Wisconsin DMV and were told that many small towns are lenient toward OHVs while cities tend not to be, so your mileage may vary.

Driving on official ATV Routes in Wisconsin

Off-highway vehicles driving on designated Wisconsin ATV Routes must follow these rules:

  • Drive only at the extreme right side of the road surface

  • Drive only in a single-file line

  • Do not pass other moving vehicles including other OHVs

  • Make left turns only when legal and safe to do so

  • Use hand signals for stopping and turning if vehicle does not have signals

  • Ensure passengers do not hang off the vehicle or ride in aftermarket seating

  • Always keep headlights and taillights turned on

Other restrictions, equipment requirements, and limited hours of operation may vary between localities, so be sure to check ahead when you plan to travel.

Required registration

All off-highway vehicles driven on public roads in Wisconsin are required to obtain a Wisconsin OHV Registration from the state. Registrations can be obtained online through the Wisconsin DNR, by mail after completing Application Form 9400-376 (PDF), in person at a DNR Service Location, or at any commercial ATV/UTV dealer in Wisconsin. If you register online or in person you can get a temporary registration instantly.

Wisconsin allows you to design and build your own OHV license plate at the time of registration. Learn more at Wisconsin DNR: ATV and UTV Registration under the section “Display of Decals and Rear Registration Plate.”

Required safety course

Drivers born on or after 1/1/1988 must pass a Wisconsin ATV Safety Course to operate a UTV or other off-highway vehicle on ATV Routes, trails, public lands, and other off-road riding areas throughout the state.

Required equipment

To use public roads and ATV Routes in Wisconsin, a UTV must have been originally manufactured with this equipment:

  • Two headlights

  • At least one taillight

  • At least one brake light

  • Seat belts at each seat

  • Rollover protection

  • Working brakes

Additionally, all UTVs must meet the following requirements:

  • Forest Service approved spark arrester and a muffler with a maximum volume of 96 dB(A)

  • Width cannot exceed 65 inches from the factory or through aftermarket modifications

  • All OHVs are subject to statewide auxiliary lighting restrictions explained below

  • Occupants younger than 18 must wear helmets both on and off-road

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Lighting restrictions

Wisconsin requires all off-highway vehicles to meet following lighting requirements:

  • Forward-facing lights can only be white

  • Rear-facing lights can only be red, yellow, amber, or white

  • Flashing, oscillating, or rotating lights can only be yellow or amber

  • Front high beams and extra driving lights must be dimmed when meeting traffic

  • No more than 4 front-facing lights can be used within 500 feet of oncoming traffic

  • Reverse lights cannot remain on while driving forward

  • No more than 2 lights can be used for reversing

Though these laws are written for OHVs that are not street legal, given their specific nature and the popularity of OHVs on public roads in Wisconsin, you can expect them to be enforced for street legal UTVs registered out of state as well. The exact wording can be found throughout the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF), mostly in sections 24 and 25.

Driving on trails next to roadways

When driving on a trail next to a roadway, the vehicle must always stay at least 10 feet from the road. OHVs can travel with or against the flow of traffic on these trails during daylight, but at night they must travel with the flow of traffic if using a trail within 40 feet of the road unless the two are separated by a barrier.

Crossing roads

OHVs in Wisconsin may cross public roads including those that are not ATV Routes. Crossings must be done at a safe location in the most direct manner possible, after coming to a complete stop and yielding to traffic. Roads can also be used to cross bridges, culverts, and railroads. Bridges crossed in this manner must be 1,000’ or less in length and there must be a local ordinance permitting this action. Other details are often determined by local ordinances, so be sure to check ahead.

Special exceptions

UTVs and other off-highway vehicles used for certain industrial purposes like agriculture and farming may qualify for expanded road use permissions. Refer to the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF) or contact the DMV or local law enforcement to learn more.

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How Wisconsin Defines Off-Highway Vehicles

Note: These definitions changed in 2020 as described in Wisconsin ATV and UTV Law Changes Effective March 4, 2020 (PDF).

Wisconsin defines a Small All-Terrain Vehicle as one with:

Wisconsin defines an All-Terrain Vehicle as one with:

  • Width of 50” or less (wheel to wheel)

  • Dry weight of 900 lbs. or less

  • Three or more tires

  • Straddle seating

  • Commercially designed and manufactured

Wisconsin defines a Utility Terrain Vehicle as one originally manufactured with:

  • Width of 65” or less (wheel to wheel)

  • Dry weight of 3,000 lbs. or less

  • Four or more tires

  • Steering wheel

  • Two headlights

  • At least one taillight

  • At least one brake light

  • Seat belts for each seat

  • Rollover protection

  • Commercially designed and manufactured

  • Does not meet federal motor vehicle safety standards

  • Is not a golf cart, dune buggy, mini-truck, or tracked vehicle

  • Is designed primarily for off-road use

Alternatively, a Utility Terrain Vehicle can be any vehicle with three or more wheels with straddle seating and measuring 65” or less in width that does not qualify as an All-Terrain Vehicle.

This guide focuses on vehicles classified as Utility Terrain Vehicles. Although Wisconsin generally refers to all three categories with the blanket term ATV, vehicles fitting the other two categories sometimes follow different rules as detailed in the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF).

• • •

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Laws, Codes, and Other Resources

Hey! This page is part of our Nationwide Street Legal UTV Guide which covers all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. and five US territories. It also covers in-depth topics like registration, insurance, and what to do if you get pulled over. Check it out to learn all about street legal UTVs!

For questions outside the scope of this guide, try:

  • Wisconsin DOT Division of Motor Vehicles

  • Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

  • Wisconsin Department of Tourism

  • Wisconsin Cartographer’s Office

  • Official list of Wisconsin counties and contact information

  • Wisconsin ATV and UTV Association and their list of local ATV clubs

These are the sources we used to create this guide. If you find any inaccurate or outdated information, please contact us and we will be happy to address it.


Start here

Wisconsin ATV/UTV Regulation Handbook (PDF)

Wisconsin DNR: ATV and UTV Registration

Wisconsin DNR: ATV Safety Courses

Wisconsin DOT: ATV and UTV Road Use Guide

 

Operating as an OHV

Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 23 Section 33 (Conservation statutes pertaining to OHVs)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.2 (Registration, exemptions)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.3g (OHV helmet law)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.6 (Equipment requirements)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.6m (Noise limits)

 

Road use of OHVs not registered as street legal

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.4d (Road use)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.8 (Routes and trails)

 

Other resources

Wisconsin ATV/UTV Law Changes Effective March 4, 2020 (PDF)

Wisconsin Statute 23.33.1.ng (Definition of a Utility-Terrain Vehicle)

Wisconsin Statute 340. 01 (Definitions of various vehicles, highway)

Wisconsin Statute 341.40 (Wisconsin vehicle registration reciprocity)

Wisconsin Statute 346.94(19) (Off-Road Utility Vehicles)

Wisconsin Statute 347.485 (Wisconsin motorcycle helmet law)

Wisconsin Statutes

READ LESS, RIDE MORE.

Our expert team can register your UTV as street legal while you’re out riding.

Guide to ATV and UTV Laws in Wisconsin – ATV MAN

Continuing in our series of articles analyzing the ATV laws in every state, which stemmed from this article, we are addressing the ATV laws in Wisconsin in this article.  It should also be noted that, while I am an attorney, I am not your attorney, not licensed in Wisconsin and am not giving legal advice.  If you have questions, you should consult a local attorney.

How does Wisconsin define an ATV and UTV?

Wisconsin defines an ATV or All-Terrain Vehicle as “a commercially designed and manufactured motor-driven device that has a weight, without fluids, of 900 pounds or less, has a width of 50 inches or less, is equipped with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and on 3 or more low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires. ” Note, Wisconsin also defines a separate category of ATVs as “small all-terrain vehicles.”  The definition of a small ATV is “an all-terrain vehicle that has 4 wheels and that has either an engine certified by the manufacturer at not more than 130 cubic centimeters or an equivalent power unit.” To get an idea for what ATVs fit into Wisconsin’s definitions, check out these guides to ATV Weight and ATV Dimension. Small Utility Terrain Vehicle—means a utility terrain vehicle that has 4 wheels and that has either an engine certified by the manufacturer at not more than 200 cubic centimeters or an equivalent power unit. Wisconsin defines a UTV or Utility Terrain Vehicle as “a commercially designed and manufactured motor driven device that does not meet federal motor vehicle safety standards in effect on July 1, 2012, that is not a golf cart, low-speed vehicle, dune buggy, mini-truck, or tracked vehicle, that is designed to be used primarily off of a highway, and that has, and was originally manufactured with, all of the following:

  •  A net weight, without fluids, of 2,000 pounds or less.
  • Four or more low pressure or non-pneumatic tires.
  • A steering wheel.
  • A tail light.
  • A brake light.
  • Two headlights.
  • A width of not more than 65 inches.
  • A system of seat belts, or a similar system, for restraining each occupant of the device in the event of an accident.
  • A system of structural members designed to reduce the likelihood that an occupant would be crushed as the result of a rollover of the device.

Similar to small ATVs, Wisconsin also has a separate designation for small UTVs.  A Small Utility Terrain Vehicle is defined as “a utility terrain vehicle that has 4 wheels and that has either an engine certified by the manufacturer at not more than 200 cubic centimeters or an equivalent power unit.” To get an idea for what UTVs fit into Wisconsin’s definitions, check out these guides to UTV Weight and UTV Dimension.

Are you required to register your ATV or UTV in Wisconsin?

You are required to register your ATV as an ATV and your UTV as a UTV if you plan to ride on any public land in Wisconsin.   Registration must be completed within 10 days of the purchase of the ATV or UTV.  If you purchased from a dealer, they have 5 days to submit the registration.  Note that, should your ATV meet all the definition of an ATV except it is too heavy and/or wide, it can be registered as a UTV.  Small ATVs and UTVs  must also be registered. Upon registering your ATV or UTV, you will received a temporary operating receipt that you must carry with you while riding until you receive, by mail, your two registration decals.  You are required to display a decal on each side of your ATV or UTV, in front of the operator, in a place where they are visible to law enforcement.

Registration Free Weekend

The only exception to this registration requirement for non-exempt vehicles is the first full weekend every June, when you are free to ride ATVs and UTVs without complying with the registration and trail pass requirements.

Private Use Registration

If you qualify, you may register your ATV or UTV under Private Use, Agricultural.   This registration costs $15 and lasts until ownership of the ATV or UTV is transferred. You may only take advantage of this registration option if your ATV or UTV is used for an agricultural purpose. Agricultural purpose is defined as “a purpose related to the transportation of farm implements, equipment, supplies, or products on a farm or between farms. This form of registration is valid during operation on public roads for agricultural purposes, but is not valid for operation on public, frozen waterways or public lands otherwise open to ATVs/UTVs.   If you want to use your ATV or UTV recreationally as well, you may dual register it for public use also. You may also register an ATV or UTV under Private Use, Non-Agricultural.  This form of registration is available if you use your ATV or UTV exclusively on private property owned by you or an immediate family member.  Like the agricultural registration, this registration also costs $15 and remains valid until ownership of the ATV or UTV is transferred.

License Plate

After you register your ATV or UTV in Wisconsin, you are required to attach a license plate to the rear of the ATV or UTV, unless your obtained a private registration.  Unfortunately, this plate is not included with your registration, and you must either construct your own plate or purchase one. The license plate must be at least 4 inches high and 7 1/2 inches wide.  It must be white in color and display in black characters the four-number and two-letter registration ID you were issued for the ATV or UTV.  The characters must be at least 1.5 inches high with a minimum brush stroke of 3/16 of an inch wide.

Non-Resident Trail Passes

If you are not a Wisconsin resident, you either need to obtain a valid Public Use registration for your ATV or UTV, or you will need to obtain and display a non-resident trail pass. When you purchase an annual trail pass, you will receive a temporary operating receipt that you must carry with you to operate your ATV or UTV in Wisconsin until you receive the trail pass decal, which should arrive by mail in 2 weeks or less. The annual trail pass expires each year on March 31, regardless of when it was purchased.  You may purchase the annual trail pass online, at select authorized sales locations or by calling WDNR at 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463). If you do not want to purchase an annual trail pass, you may choose the 5-day Trail Pass.  This pass must be printed from your computer or the Go Wild location where it is purchased.  You must carry the pass with you whenever you are operating your ATV or UTV in Wisconsin during the 5 days.  You do not receive a sticker or decal with the 5-day pass. Note, you do not need a license plate if you are operating with an trail pass instead of a registration.

What to do when you move

When you change your address, you must submit written notification within 15 days to DNR.  The notification must include your new address and the certificate number for the ATV or UTV you own. This process can also be accomplished by changing your address in your GoWild account information.

Other Registration Exemptions

Other ATV and UTV registration exemptions in Wisconsin include the following:

  • Advertising.  If you bring an ATV or UTV into Wisconsin for less than 15 days as part of an advertisement being made for the manufacturer of the ATV or UTV, you are exempt from the registration and trail pass requirements.
  • Government.  ATVs and UTVs owned by government agencies are exempt from registration requirements if the name of the agency that owns the ATV or UTV is clearly displayed on the outside of the ATV or UTV.
  • Racing.  ATVs and UTVs that are used exclusively for racing on a raceway facility are exempt from registration requirements.

Youth Regulations for ATV and UTV Operation in Wisconsin

The following regulations apply for youth operation of ATVs and/or UTVs in Wisconsin:

  • Anyone over the age of 11 operating an ATV or UTV  must possess a valid ATV safety certificate issued by any state or province. Said operators must have the safety certificate in their possession while operating in areas open to the public such as trails, routes and frozen waterways.   Note, the popular ATV Safety Institute (ASI) and Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROVHA) certificates are not valid in Wisconsin. The only valid safety certificate must be obtained by completing a classroom course or an Internet course offered by www.atvcourse.com and www.offroad-ed.com.  Prior to enrolling in a safety class, you must obtain a DNR Customer ID number using the DNR website, calling 1-888-936-7463 or visiting a DNR service center.
  • Youth that possess a safety certificate may carry a passenger on an ATV or UTV.
  • Children under the age of 12 may not operate an ATV, and children under 16 may not operate a UTV, on a roadway for any event, including crossing the road.
  • All ATV and UTV operators aged 12-15 must be accompanied by a designated adult while operating on a designated ATV Route except while operating for agricultural purposes with adult supervision.
  • Anyone operating or riding as a passenger on an ATV or UTV that is under the age of 18 is required to wear a minimum DOT standard ATV or motorcycle helmet unless they are operating on private land owned by their immediate family, while operating for agricultural purposes or for the purpose of hunting or fishing.  Check out our favorite ATV helmet, or this guide for how to pick out the best helmet for you.

Exceptions to Safety Certificate Requirements

There are a number of exceptions to the safety certificate requirements in Wisconsin. A safety certificate is not required in the following circumstances:

  • While operating on private property owned by the operator’s immediate family;
  • Children under the age of 12 operating on any private property with permission of the landowner and with the accompaniment of a designated adult.
  • Children under the age of 12 operating a small ATV (see definition above) on a public ATV trail while accompanied by a designated adult;
  • Operating during a demonstration even on a closed course while accompanied by a designated adult.

Agricultural Use of ATVs/UTVs in Wisconsin

As discussed above, you may register your ATV or UTV for private use, agricultural. This registration requires the ATV or UTV be used only for agricultural purposes, which means “a purpose related to the transportation of farm implements, equipment, supplies, or products on a farm or between farms.” Note that operation between a dwelling and a farm or piece of non-agricultural property does not meet an agricultural purpose unless the dwelling is on the same piece of property as the farm. The following regulations apply to ATVs and UTVs registered for private use, agricultural:

  • You may operate your ATV or UTV on roadways while transporting farm implements, equipment, supplies, or products on a farm or between farms in the following manner:
    • You must be at the extreme right side of the roadway, except for when making left turns.
    • You must have you headlight(s) and taillight(s) activated and visible.
    • You must obey the roadway speed limit.
  • Helmets are not required when riding for agricultural use, but we still recommend them.
  • Children aged 12 and higher may operate an ATV on roadways if they possess a valid ATV Safety Certificate.
  • Children under the age of 12 may not operate an ATV or UTV on roadways.
  • Children under the age of 12 may operate an ATV on private lands if they are under the supervision of an adult.
  • Children under the age of 16 may operate a UTV on private lands if they are under the supervision of an adult.
  • Children under the age of 16 may operate a UTV on roadways if they possess an ATV Safety Certificate
  • No safety certificate is required while operating an ATV or UTV on property under the management and control of the operator’s immediate family

Where can you ride an ATV or UTV in Wisconsin?

Most ATV and UTV trail riding opportunities in Wisconsin are located on County owned land, with some also available on State and Federal lands. Generally, ATV and UTV operation is strictly restricted to designated and marked ATV trails and routes only. Marked ATV Trails in Wisconsin are generally open to UTV operation unless specifically marked as closed to UTVs. ATV trails in Wisconsin are identified by small (6”x6”) brown signs with the white silhouette of an ATV and orange blazer (diamond) signs. An ATV trail will generally never be on a road or in a ditch, whereas an ATV route may be. You may encounter some trails that are designated as multiple use trails. These trails typically permit horses, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs and bicyclists. Unlike an ATV trail, an ATV Route is a public roadway that is designated as being open to legal ATV and UTV use. Routes are designated through passage of a local ordinance and posted with ATV Route (24”x 18”) green signs with the white silhouette of an ATV along with appropriate directional arrows. All roads designated as ATV Routes must be signed at the beginning and end of a route and at such intervals that enable riders to follow the route. You can find ATV Routes through your local law enforcement agency as ATV Route ordinances must be filed with any law enforcement agencies that have jurisdiction over the roadway. Official copies of all ATV Route ordinances are also filed with the Department of Natural Resources located at: WI DNR ATV Safety Program 101 South Webster Street LE/8 Madison,WI 53707. You will have to haul your ATV or UTV to any route or trail as there is no residential access allowance that permits you to ride on a roadway from your house to a trail or route. When it comes to riding on snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, there is, unfortunately, no state-wide rule to make it easy. Different counties in Wisconsin have different rules for whether or not you can operate ATVs or UTVs on snowmobile trails. That being the case, you should check with your county before you head out to ride on any snowmobile trails. Note, simply adding tracks to an ATV or UTV does not permit you to ride on a snowmobile trail. Also, be careful as snowmobile trails, like ATV trails, are also marked by an orange blazer to mark the pathway of a trail. Finally, you are not permitted to operate your ATV or UTV in any navigable water or on the exposed bed of any navigable water (including exposed lake beds) except in the following circumstances:

  • To cross a stream via bridge, culvert, ford or similar structure in the most direct manner practical.
  • To launch or load a boat or other watercraft in the most direct manner practical.
  • To access the frozen surfaces of any navigable waters in the most direct manner practical.

Note, “Bed of a navigable water” refers to “all of the area below the ordinary high water mark of a lake or stream.” If you aren’t sure about riding in a location, you should check with local County, State and Federal offices for special regulations. Here are some ideas:

  • County Forestry Offices
  • DNR website dnr.wi.gov, search keyword “ATV”
  • U.S. Forest Service fs.fed.gov website, search “ChequamegonNicolet National Forest” and “Motor Vehicle Use Map”
  • Dept. of Tourism travelwisconsin.com search keyword “ATV”
  • Wisconsin ATV Association watva.org
  • Area Chamber of Commerce

Are you permitted to ride an ATV or UTV on the public streets or highways in Wisconsin?

While ATV and UTV use is permitted on designated routes, it is otherwise prohibited on public streets and highways in Wisconsin that have not been designated as Routes. Despite this general prohibition, operation of ATVs and UTVs is permitted on the streets in Wisconsin in the following circumstances:

  • For agricultural purposes, as discussed above.
  • On designated and signed ATV Routes.
  • On roads not seasonally maintained for roadway use, during the time in which no maintenance occurs if the road hasn’t been closed to ATV or UTV use.
  • To cross a roadway, bridge, culvert or railroad right-of-way when operating on a designated and marked trail, route or private property so long as the location is safe to cross, you come to a complete stop and yield to all motor vehicles and pedestrians.
  • On the roadway or shoulder of any highway to cross a bridge that is 1,000 feet in length or less if the operation is in compliance with a county, city, village, or town ordinance that applies to that bridge.

In situations where you are permitted to operate an ATV or UTV on the street in Wisconsin, you must abide by the following:

  • You must operate at the extreme right side of the roadway surface.
  • You can make left turns from any part of the roadway surface as long as it’s safe.
  • You may not ride side by side, but rather single file.
  • You must ride with your head lamps and tail lamps on.
  • Children 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult, regardless of a safety certificate, unless it is a crossing or agricultural use.
  • children under 12 may not operate an ATV and children under 12 may not operate a UTV.
Can you ride ATVs/UTVs on an Unimproved Right-of-Way or Ditch?

Generally, you are not permitted to operate an ATV or UTV on the unimproved right-of-way or ditch on the side of a public street.   The exceptions where such operation is permitted are as follows:

  • On town roads where it has been designated as an ATV trail or route;
  • On town roads where the right-of-way or ditch is on private permission and you have permission from the land owner;
  • On a county or state highway that has been designated as an ATV trail or route;
  • On a trail adjacent to a county or state highway;
  • On a county or state highway if you are riding at least 10 feed from the roadway;

Note that operation of an ATV or UTV is never permitted on the right-of-way or ditch alongside an Interstate Highway. In addition, you should know that when you are legally operating alongside roadways during the hours of darkness, you must ride in the same direction as motor vehicle traffic in the nearest lane unless the trail or route is located at least 40 feet from the roadway or separated by a headlight barrier.  When you are riding during the day, you may ride in either direction regardless of the flow of motor vehicle traffic.

ATV and UTV Equipment Regulations in Wisconsin

The following equipment regulations apply to ATVs and UTVs in Wisconsin:

  • While most states do not permit you to carry a passenger on an ATV unless it is designed with a seat for the passenger, Wisconsin has no such restriction. That being said, a large portion of serious injuries and deaths on ATVs occur when passengers are on ATVs not designed for passengers, so please be careful.
    • On the other hand, if you have a UTV, it is not legal in Wisconsin to operate with passengers in any after-market seating placed in the cargo area of a UTV, or on any part of the UTV not originally manufactured as seating.
  • Your ATV must be equipped with at least a single white headlamp and a red tail lamp that must be activated during the hours of darkness or while operating on or along a roadway.  A UTV has the same requirements, but it must have two headlamps.
    • Your ATV or UTV may not have colored headlamp covers, lens covers or colored headlamp bulbs if you are riding during the hours of darkness or while operating on or along a roadway.
    • Your headlamp(s) must be able to illuminate a person or object at a distance of at least 200 feet in front of your machine.
    • You may have other auxiliary lighting on your ATV or UTV as long as it doesn’t interfere with legal lighting requirements.
    • The tail lamp on your ATV or UTV must make it visible from 500 feet to the rear during the hours of darkness.
  • Your ATV or UTV must be equipped with at least one brake, operated either by hand or by foot.
  • If you have a UTV, all passengers must have their seatbelts fastened at all times.
  • An ATV or UTV must be equipped with a functioning muffler that prevents noise above 96 decibels when measured on the “A” scale.
  • An ATV or UTV must be equipped with a spark arrester.

What to do if you are in an ATV or UTV accident in Wisconsin

If you are in an ATV or UTV accident in Wisconsin that results in death or an injury requiring treatment by a physician must be reported as soon as possible to a Conservation Warden or other law enforcement officer.   In addition, you must file a written report of the incident within 10 days to the DNR. The Incident Report can be obtained dnr.wi.gov.  Just search for crash.

Can you use an ATV or UTV for hunting in Wisconsin?

There are no blanket restrictions against hunting on an ATV or UTV, however the following restrictions are applicable.

  • Firearms, other than handguns, must be unloaded when in or on any vehicle, except that a loaded firearm may be placed on, but not in, a vehicle which is stationary.
  •  In Wisconsin, it is unlawful to place, possess, or transport a cocked crossbow in or on a motorized vehicle unless it is unloaded and enclosed within a case.
  • It is unlawful in Wisconsin to load a firearm, other than a handgun, while it is in a vehicle or to discharge any firearm, including handguns, in or from any moving or stationary vehicle except for certain disabled hunters with proper permits.
  • Qualified disabled hunters with a permit authorizing them to shoot from a stationary vehicle must have all firearms (other than handguns) unloaded while the vehicle is in motion. • It is unlawful in Wisconsin to drive, pursue or harass any wild animal

Using an ATV or UTV for snow removal

You may operate an ATV or UTV with a snow removal device attached for snow removal purposes and under the following restrictions:

  • You may not exceed 5 mph while on a public sidewalk;
  • You may not exceed 15 mph while on or adjacent to a roadway;
  • Operation is only allowed on roadways where the speed limit is 45 mph or less;
  • You must stay to the far right hand side of the road;
  • You must be 16 years or older and possess a valid ATV Safety Certificate;
  • Snow removal by ATV or UTV is only allowed between October 1 and April 30;
  • You may not travel greater than 2 miles from your original starting or loading point; and
  • Your ATV or UTV must display one or more illuminated, yellow lights that are flashing or rotating and visible for 360 degrees.

Other Wisconsin ATV and UTV Regulations

  • It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV on public lands while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • You must not exceed 10 mph on your ATV or UTV if you are within 100 feet of a person who is not in or on a motorized vehicle, unless you are on a designated ATV Road Route.
  • You must not exceed 10 mph on your ATV or UTV if you are within 100 feet of an ice fishing shanty while on the ice, unless you on a designated ATV Road Route.
  • You must not exceed 10 mph on your ATV or UTV if you are within 150 feet of a home or dwelling, unless you on a designated ATV Road Route.
  • When operating on or along roadways you cannot exceed the posted roadway speed limits for motor vehicle traffic unless there is a specific speed limit posted for ATVs/UTVs.
  • You are required to obey all regulatory and traffic signs.
  • Regardless of any posted speed, you my not operate at an unreasonable or improper speed.
  • It is unlawful to operate in careless manner that endangers a person or property.
  • You must have permission of the land owner to ride on private property.
  • It is unlawful to permit another person to operate your ATV or UTV if they are incapable of operating because they are physically or mentally unable to exercise physical control over the speed or direction of the ATV or UTV.
  • If you are requested to stop by a law enforcement officer, you must do so.

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Back to YACOTA website 05/07/2017

Where you can ride an ATV

Can I ride an ATV on the roads?

Yes, you can, and regardless of the size of the ATV engine. The main thing is that the ATV is equipped with the necessary set of lighting devices, and the pilot has the necessary package of documents in his hands.

Is it possible to ride an ATV in the city?

You can ride both in the city and outside it, however, you need to know about some rules. For example, all ATVs are prohibited from driving on highways, in Moscow these are the Moscow Ring Road and the Third Ring Road, the exits to which are marked with special signs. In addition, quadrics with an engine capacity exceeding 50 cubes must have a license plate and lighting equipment.

Is it possible to ride an ATV in the forest?

Through forests, fields, mountains and any other locations. The law restricts the movement of ATVs only in special places like nature reserves and national parks, as well as water protection zones.

Frequently asked questions about ATVs

What documents should be on the ATV?

First of all, you must have a PSM (self-propelled vehicle passport) in your hands, in which you are listed as the last owner. It is not necessary to bring it with you. Registration marks (number) must be installed on the ATV. It is necessary to carry STS with you. And also, you should always have a license of category A1 (tractor driver-machinist) with you.

Can I ride an ATV without a license?

Can't. Rights must be obtained for all quads: owners of vehicles with engines up to 50 cubes must have category “M”, which is automatically opened for owners of any other category of V / U, and pilots of more cubic capacity are required to obtain a tractor driver-driver certificate in state technical supervision. It is issued from the age of sixteen, and owners who opened category “A” in ordinary, automobile rights before 2000 can issue a category “A” tractor driver-driver's certificate without exams.

Can children ride an ATV?

Legislation strictly regulates the age at which you can start riding an ATV, it is 16 years old. However, many parents begin to teach their children how to ride a children's ATV from the age of 6-7, for example, in their own summer cottage, where the young ATV will be completely protected from the state technical supervision and traffic police.

Can I ride an ATV without a helmet?

The law does not require ATVs to wear a helmet, nor does it impose a penalty for not wearing one. But it is better to ride in a helmet, as well as use other equipment - there is never too much safety.

Knowing the answers to these questions , and following a series of simple rules, you can completely insure yourself against any problems, and most importantly, make summer a season of only good adventures.

Choose and buy ATV can be easily found on the pages of our motorcycle catalog - HERE

Get maximum positive impressions from summer! Be active!

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It is generally accepted that ATVs are driven only in mud and off-road. But there are situations when you need to drive it onto a public road (DOP). For example, to get fishing in the shortest way or to bring building materials from the store. In these cases, it is not illegal to drive the ATV on highways if several conditions are met. Let's take a look at them.

Documents for driving an ATV according to the DOP

  1. The rights of a tractor driver (category A1). Issued by Gostekhnadzor upon completion of driving training.
  2. Technical passport of a self-propelled machine. Issued with the purchase of an ATV. If the disposal fee was not paid when importing equipment to Russia and the ATV was delivered in the form of agricultural equipment, the registration certificate will be missing.
  3. License plate and state registration certificate. Issued by Gostekhnadzor within ten days from the date of purchase of equipment. For this, a passport of a self-propelled vehicle, a contract of sale, a passport of a citizen of the Russian Federation, an act of acceptance and transfer of an ATV and a certificate of conformity are provided. If the deadlines are not met, a fine of 800 rubles is imposed.
  4. Insurance policy. Can be issued only for the months of using the supplement. Some companies don't want to issue ATV insurance. In this case, you can demand a written refusal and, on its basis, file a complaint with the Russian Union of Motor Insurers or the Central Bank of Russia.
  5. Inspection card. Required for equipment older than three years. If the ATV is less than seven years old, it is enough to pass inspection every two years. If more - the procedure is carried out annually.

ATV accessories and equipment for road riding

  1. Rear-view mirrors.
  2. Turn signals. In their absence, it is allowed to show the turn with hands.
  3. Helmet. Mandatory for driver and passenger. Driving without it is fraught with a fine of 1000 rubles. for every person. A helmet or a model without chin protection is not suitable for riding an ATV - the helmet must be closed.
  4. The rest of the equipment is selected at the discretion of the driver and passenger - there are no restrictions in this regard.

Nuances of riding a quad bike on public roads

A quad bike with mud tires can comfortably ride on asphalt at speeds up to 60 km/h.


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