ATV Riding Laws – Utah

Although no state agency is designated to regulate all-terrain vehicles in Utah, a comprehensive set of laws are in place. All vehicles manufactured after 1987 must be titled unless owned and operated by a resident of another state, the federal government, or are registered for highway use. Registration is required for all ATVs that are used on public roads and lands. Operators are required by law to register their vehicles every year.

Utah restricts the use of vehicles on public roads in a few ways:

  • A child under 8 years old cannot drive an ATV on public land, but those 8-15 years old can do so with an education certificate from Utah State Parks and Recreation.
  • Operators 16 and older can ride with a valid driver’s license or an OHV Education Certificate.
  • A qualified rider must have either a driver’s license or safety training certificate to drive on public roads.
  • Streets and highways can only be traversed for crossing or if designated for off-highway vehicle use.

The Safety Focus of Utah Riding Laws

At 232 ATV accident fatalities from 1982 through 2015, based on Consumer Product Safety Commission data, Utah certainly isn’t near the top of the list. All-terrain vehicles are divided up into two categories. A Type I ATV can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and be up to 52 inches wide, while a Type II vehicle is one built to ride over unimproved terrain, but is not a motorcycle, snowmobile, or golf cart. However, dune buggies and go-carts are included in the category.

The law requires any rider/passenger under 18 years old to wear a helmet, and for operators from 8-15 years old to take the Utah Know Before You Go! certification course if they intend to drive on public land. This course covers safe riding, handling/shifting, weight distribution, machine sizing, responsibility, and focusing on one’s abilities. Younger drivers who traverse public highways must be supervised by someone who 18 or older, from a maximum of 300 feet away and in direct line of sight.

All-terrain vehicle operators in Utah must also:

  • Drive on the right side, in single file.
  • Abstain from alcohol and drugs while riding.
  • Keep their lights on between sunset and sunrise.
  • Ensure their breaks are working and able to stop the vehicle.
  • See their ATVs have mufflers with approved spark arrestors.

If driving on sand dunes, Utah law requires operators to attach a red or orange whip flag to the vehicle, affixed to a mounting that extends at least eight feet from the ground. One can also attach a safety flag to their headgear if necessary. If used, it must be a minimum of 18 inches above the person’s head.

It is also illegal to commit illegal activities while using an off-highway or all-terrain vehicle, including harassing wildlife or domestic animals, acts of vandalism, or any crime. Excessive noise and pollution are also restricted. Riders are also limited to using their ATVs on public roads, trails, and land designated for their use or on private property with the approval of an owner or other individual with authority to grant permission.