ATV Riding Laws - Oklahoma

An individual that rides an ATV in Oklahoma must follow the laws as set by the state. These laws include riding rules for private and public land as well as violations that can be cited. Oklahoma defines an ATV as a vehicle that is exclusively used for off-road driving and has a width of 48 in. or less. It must also have a dry weight under 800 lb.

Public Land Use

Under Oklahoma law, it is prohibited for anyone under the age of 18 to ride an ATV or even ride as a passenger unless they are wearing a helmet. The helmet must meet the standards of 49 CFR Section 571.218 of the Oklahoma statute.

The state also provides that it is considered unlawful to operate an ATV with a passenger aboard unless that vehicle has been specifically engineered by the manufacturer to carry a passenger. This is in addition to the operator.

Parents or legal guardians that knowingly allow a person under the age of 18 to operate without a helmet or with a passenger aboard as stated under the law, can be punished for their actions. It is their responsibility to follow and know the provisions of the statute.

Individuals that violate these regulations can be fined up to $25 including court costs. The provisions of the statute are enforceable by a state peace officer who can include a park ranger. The money that is collected for these fines is deposited into the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department Revolving Fund.

These laws apply to public land use and are not enforceable on private land. This ATV act went into effect for Oklahoma on Nov. 1, 2007.

Street and Highway Use

ATVs are allowed on unpaved roadways throughout the region’s Forest Service property. They can also be operated on public street ways as well as on highways when all of the following applies.

• The rider needs to cross the street or highway to remain on a trail
• The rider has a valid driver’s license
• The rider is crossing the street during day light hours

ATVs cannot cross a street or highway where the legal speed limit is above 35 mph. ATVs are also not allowed on highways and turnpikes within the state. Violations of these provisions can result in a misdemeanor and a fine from $10 to $100.

Oklahoma does allow ATVs to be operated on city streets if the specific municipality that the operator is riding in allows it. The municipality needs to have an ordinance in place, and the operation needs to occur during normal daylight hours.