ATV Riding Laws – Arkansas

In the state of Arkansas, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) must be registered by the owner and have a one numbered decal displayed. In order to operate an ATV on roadways after sunset or before sunrise, it must be equipped with a headlight and taillight. Children under 12 years of age can only drive an ATV if they are accompanied by an adult 18 or older, or if they are driving it on their parent’s land. They can also operate an ATV if they are 12 years old or younger if they have permission from the person that owns the land they are driving it on.

An ATV is not allowed on highways or public roadways unless it is to cross the road when safe, or for hunting and farming in which it is necessary to get from one area to another. They are also allowed on roadways outside of city limits when getting from one trail to another is required or to access private property.

Arkansas ATV use is monitored by the Arkansas State Police and there are specific laws that have been put in place. It is a requirement that helmets with eye guards are worn while operating ATVs. Appropriate attire must be worn and that includes long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed toe, non-skid shoes. It is also illegal to ride passengers on ATVs built for one rider only.

The state also recommends that new ATV drivers and owners take a safety training course to learn how to properly drive and handle an all-terrain vehicle. ATVs must also be titled and registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles in Arkansas. Any ATV that is driven a ½ hour before sunrise or a ½ hour after sunset are required to have a working headlight and taillight and they must be on.

ATV users are not to operate their vehicles on county roads unless permitted and the only time they are permitted on the highway or public roadways is to cross the road. Farmers and hunters can cross roadways to access one area from another. Outside city limits, ATV users are allowed to drive on the road or a public street to get to a trail or private property. The Motor Vehicle Use Map is published annually in Arkansas to illustrate areas and trails that are acceptable for ATV use.

Arkansas has specific laws in place to regulate the use of ATVs in the state. Anyone that owns or operates an ATV must register it and have a title for the vehicle. They are not allowed on highways or public roadways unless it is to cross the road. ATVs must also be equipped with headlights and taillights if they will be operated a ½ hour prior to sunrise and a ½ hour before sunset.