Are Side-by-Sides Street Legal?

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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton

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Are Side-by-Sides Street Legal?

How cool would it be to drive your side-by-side vehicle to work? Your kids will be overjoyed if you take your UTV to pick them up from school. Don’t you think so? However, every owner of such a ride would ponder the question, are side-by-side streets legal?

Key Takeaways:

1. Street Legality Varies by State: Side-by-sides (UTVs) are street-legal in many U.S. states, but the rules vary significantly, with some states outright banning their use on public roads.
2. General Requirements: To be street-legal, a side-by-side typically need specific features like a license plate, mirrors, horn, lights, turn signals, speedometer, and more. Additionally, vehicle insurance, passing safety inspections, and having a valid driver’s license are often required.
3. State-Specific Laws: While some states, like Arizona, allow UTVs on public roads with few restrictions, others, like Alabama and New York, have stricter regulations or outright prohibitions. Exceptions often exist for specific uses, like agricultural purposes or crossing streets.
4. Local and Federal Variations: In many states, local governments or specific jurisdictions determine the legality of UTVs, meaning rules can change even within the same state. Federal or state highways generally have stricter rules against side-by-side.
5. Resources for Clarification: For precise information, it is recommended that you contact local DMV offices, city or county authorities, and local side-by-side groups. National Forest lands also have specific regulations to be aware of.

To your surprise, side-by-side is legal in most states of the U.S. Still, a few states have not yet legalized the use of UTVs on public roads. Some allow it with a few conditions and restrictions.

Do you want to know whether your hometown falls under this category? In this article, you will find detailed insight into each state’s laws about side-by-side legality.

Hop in!

In Which States Are Side-by-Sides Street Legal?

The laws for driving UTVs vary from state to state and may differ between cities in the same state. So, in which states is side-by-side street legal?

Out of the 50 total states, 9 states have completely prohibited the use of side-by-side vehicles on public streets. For the remaining 41, you will need to consider a few general rules.

Here’s a list of the prerequisites your UTV or ATV must have to comply with the state rules.

1. General Prerequisites for Side-by-Sides to Become Street Legal

License plate
Rear and side-view mirrors
A horn that is audible up to a distance of 250 feet
Brake lights
Rear reflectors
Windshield or a substitute eye protection
Taillight
Turn signals in front as well as rear
Speedometer
Tag holder that faces rear side (along with a light and tag)
Mudflaps
High and low-beam headlights

You need to ensure that you add the items mentioned to your side-by-side. Alternatively, you can opt for a street-legal kit with switches, turn signals, mirrors, and license plates.

2. Other Requirements for Side-by-Sides to Become Street Legal

Vehicle insurance
Should be able to clear the safety inspection by the state as well as an emissions test
A valid driver’s license

Note: Even if you comply with all the above requirements, your UTV may not be allowed in some areas. These include highways with high-speed limits, highly populated areas, etc. However, you must re-check with your local DMV for complete information.

3. State Wise Road Laws for Side-by-Side

Alabama

Off-road vehicles cannot be registered in Alabama, so they cannot be used on public highways. UTVs and ATVs are considered off-road vehicles and thus prohibited from public street use.

Alaska

Alaska does not allow side-by-sides on public roadways. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. You can use your side-by-side in Alaska on public roads:

If the roads are covered with snow or ice, no other vehicle can be used to travel.
If you drive perpendicular to the highway or cross it at a right angle.
When that specific highway permits off-highway vehicles.
In case you need to cross a bridge. While doing so, you must ensure you are on the extreme right side of the road. It is done to prevent interference with other traffic on that highway.

Arizona

If you want to ride your side-by-side in Arizona, it is as easy as any other on-road vehicle. All you need to do is follow a few general rules as you would with your other vehicles. Here is the list of requirements to legalize your UTV or ATV in Arizona:

License plate
Vehicle insurance
Proof of passing an emission test
Registering the vehicle and paying the required fees
Title for the ATV or UTV

Arkansas

In Arkansas, you cannot use your side-by-side on public roadways. However, it is not strictly prohibited. You may use it under the following conditions:

If the road is outside city limits and is not considered a state highway or even an interstate one.
In case the driver of the vehicle is a personnel member of the emergency or utility industry and is required to carry out an official business,
When you use the UTV or ATV for hunting or farming activities.
Suppose you want to travel from one off-road trail to another or from your private property to an off-road trail or other private land or property. In such cases, the distance must be equal to or less than 3 miles.
In case you are crossing a highway or a public street.
Suppose an individual is suffering from a walking disability. It includes losing one or both legs.

California

California does not completely prohibit the use of ATVs and UTVs. It is allowed in the following situations.

When crossing a highway with two lanes, cross it at 90 degrees or perpendicularly and at a safe time.
Some roads are specifically marked for using both side-by-side and regular vehicles. These stretches are usually not more than 3 miles and are made for connecting off-road trails.
The driver must be wearing a helmet.
You need to carry your driver’s license.

Colorado

In Colorado, side-by-side use varies according to the counties and jurisdiction. For this, you need to confirm the rules in your specific area with your local DMV. Note that you need to have a registration sticker while riding your ATV or UTV in this state. It costs $25.5 per year and expires by 31^st March of every year.

Connecticut

Connecticut does not legalize the use of ATVs or UTVs on public roads. You can still use the vehicle with a valid driver’s license, but only for crossing the street. Ensure that it does not fall under the category of a limited-access highway. Also, you can only cross at a 90-degree angle.

Delaware

The state does not allow the operation of a side-by-side vehicle on a public street. You can only push it along a sidewalk that, too, is in neutral.

Florida

Florida does not permit using ATV or UTV vehicles on public roads. However, you may use an ATV on an unpaved public roadway during the daytime.

Also, that road must have a speed limit of less than 35 mph. The law enforcement officer can drive such vehicles within the scope of their respective duties.

Georgia

Georgia’s law is not the same for all cities in the state. The center authorities have given this responsibility to the legislation of county governments. Therefore, you must contact the local DMV for information on using side-by-side.

Hawaii

In Hawaii, side-by-side vehicles are generally not allowed on public roads. However, you can use the ATV or UTV for farming purposes.

Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and drive in areas with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Also, you can operate such vehicles only if your county has a population of 500,000 or less.

Idaho

Idaho has opened its public roads to use side-by-sides, with exceptions to federal or state highways. However, you must ensure that you carry a valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and IDPR OHV registration.

Illinois

The state of Illinois does not permit the use of a side-by-side vehicle. You may only drive such a vehicle while crossing a street. Make sure that you

Cross at 90 degrees.
Stay on the extreme right of the road.
Come to a complete stop before crossing.
Cross at an intersection only if you are crossing a divided highway.

Indiana

Indiana does not generally permit the operation of a side-by-side vehicle on public roadways. Still, you can use your UTV or ATV:

While crossing a highway (at 90 degrees).
On the right-of-way that is adjacent to a public highway.
If your county government allows the use of such vehicles.

Iowa

The state of Iowa does not permit side-by-sides on public roads in general. However, a few counties may permit their residents to do the same. If your county does not allow you to ride a UTV or ATV, you can still do so if,

It would be best to ride for farming purposes (only during the daytime).
You own the land right-of-way to the highway. In this case, you can ride your UTV/ATV, given that you are at least five feet from the highway.

Kansas

The basic rules in the state of Kansas include the registration of your side-by-side with the state. Additionally, you can only ride the vehicle on public roads in a city with a population of 15,000 or less. Apart from that, the rules of your specific city may depend on the local county authorities.

Kentucky

You cannot ride a side-by-side vehicle on public roads or highways in Kentucky. The only exceptions to this are the basic ones, such as crossing the street at 90 degrees, crossing at an intersection, etc. You can also do so with a licensed vehicle for farming activities, road maintenance, and sundries.

Louisiana

Louisiana allows you to ride side-by-side only for agriculture-related activities. The conditions include riding within 5 miles of your farm on roads excluding interstate highways. Also, ensure that your ATV or UTV is only on the shoulder of the road.

Note: The usage is allowed from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset.

Maine

Maine allows its residents to ride side-by-side vehicles, provided the vehicle is registered. You must register your vehicle every year and obtain the sticker. Your ATV or UTV must also be equipped with safety lights, turn signals, and other prerequisites listed above.

Note: You can only ride side-by-side on roads with a speed limit of 45 mph or less.

Maryland

Using a side-by-side vehicle is prohibited in Maryland unless you are doing so for farming activities. Also, if you want to ride the vehicle only on your property, you are not required to get it registered. The basic crossing rules in this state are the same as those in other states.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts strictly prohibits the use of a UTV or ATV on public roads. Make sure that your vehicle is registered with the state. You may use the vehicle to cross streets while following the standard rules.

Michigan

Like many other states, Michigan does not allow side-by-sides on public highways and roads. However, you can cross the roads following the standard rules, such as stopping and crossing at 90 degrees. Apart from that, you can modify your vehicle, as mentioned in Bill 5639, passed by the House.

Minnesota

If permitted by the authority of your particular county, you can operate your side-by-side vehicle on the shoulder of a public road. These include:

Right-of-way on an interstate highway
Roads designated as non-motorized
Right-of-way between opposing lanes

Mississippi

Mississippi does not allow the use of UTVs or ATVs on public roads. However, your local authorities may decide on country-specific rules.

Missouri

The state does not permit using ATVs and UTVs on public roads in Missouri. However, this rule is an exception if the vehicle is used for agricultural purposes or is allowed by the local authorities.

Even if allowed, you must have a valid driver’s license and ride only up to 30 mph.

Montana

The state of Montana does not permit side-by-side use on interstate or federal highways. However, you can ride an ATV on roads approved by the Forest Services. Apart from that, your local county government or city government may approve or disapprove of the use in your specific region.

Nebraska

Nebraska also allows side-by-side for agricultural purposes on the shoulder of roads. Such roads should be outside the city’s limits and should not fall under the controlled-access highways.

In addition, you must not exceed the speed limit of 30 mph. You must also follow other prerequisites, such as a license, insurance, tail light, triangular safety flag, headlight, and more.

Nevada

Nevada is quite strict about the use of side-by-side. It doesn’t allow ATVs and UTVs on public roads. Still, there are exceptions when the authorities permit them in an emergency.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not permit side-by-side vehicles on public roads unless the road is open for OHRV. Even in such cases, you must drive at 10 mph or less. Also, you must stay at the extreme right of the road.

New Jersey

In New Jersey, residents are prohibited from driving side-by-sides on public highways and roads. However, you can still do so at the crossings, given you follow the standard rules of crossing at 90 degrees.

New Mexico

New Mexico does not permit the use of side-by-side on paved roads. Nevertheless, the county-specific rules may vary according to the respective authorities. You must contact your local DMV or other authorities to clarify city or county rules.

New York

The state of New York strictly prohibits the use of side-by-side vehicles unless otherwise specified. The local government may allow ATV/UTV use in some cities or counties.

It will be on the section of the highway between two off-highway trails. You must confirm this with your local police or DMV.

North Carolina

You cannot use your UTV or ATV on public roads, highways, or streets in North Carolina. However, this is an exception in the case of using the vehicle for agricultural and hunting purposes. Also, you may use the vehicle on public roadways for crossing if you follow the basic standards.

North Dakota

North Dakota requires a registered side-by-side vehicle if you want to use it on a public road. Even then, you can ride the UTV or ATV only on a highway with a speed limit of 55 mph. Other than that, your side-by-side will only be allowed in dirt, gravel, or other loose surface areas.

Ohio

You can ride your side-by-side in Ohio only if your local county government or city authorities allow it. You can also use your UTV or ATV to cross the street at 90 degrees and the extreme right of the road.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma does not allow the residents to use their side-by-sides on public roads. However, you can cross a public highway at 90 degrees and yield to the right of way. Additionally, side-by-sides are permissible if your county or city government allows them.

Oregon

Oregon strictly prohibits using UTVs and ATVs on public pavements and roads for general traffic. However, you may use your side-by-side on gravel roads that specify the allowance for a side-by-side vehicle. Ensure you do not ride on the shoulder of a public road or crossroads with your UTV or ATV.

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, you can drive side-by-sides only on roads that are posted for the use of off-highway vehicles. Apart from this, you cannot use a UTV or ATV on public roads unless you are crossing. You can also cross at 90 degrees to the road after a complete stop and on the right side of traffic.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not permit side-by-sides on public roads other than while crossing or in case of emergencies. You can do so at the extreme right side, at a perpendicular angle to the road, and after coming to a complete stop.

South Carolina

The state of South Carolina leaves the decision to allow side-by-sides on the city and county authorities. Even if your regional government permits, you must have:

Spark arrestor approved by USDA Forest Services.
Brake system.
Muffler system.

South Dakota

With a few conditions, South Dakota allows you to legalize your side-by-side vehicle for public roads. Your vehicle engine must be larger than 200 CCs and fully equipped with the abovementioned prerequisites. Even then, you cannot drive the vehicle on interstate highways.

Tennessee

In Tennessee, you can use your side-by-side vehicle on public roads only while crossing. In other cases, the use of ATVs and UTVs is strictly prohibited.

Texas

Texas does not allow the operation of a side-by-side vehicle on public roads. There is an exception to the use of these vehicles for farming activities. Even if so, ensure you do not travel more than 25 miles. Also, your vehicle must contain the required equipment.

Utah

Utah allows the operators of side-by-sides to register their vehicles as street-legal ones. Your vehicles must be registered and titled, and all the required equipment must be included. Even after legalizing, you are not allowed to drive the vehicle on:

Interstate highways.
Highways are unauthorized for off-road vehicles.
Roadways with a speed limit of 50 mph or above.

Vermont

Vermont’s state restricts side-by-side use on public roads and highways. Nevertheless, you can use the vehicle while crossing a public road, highway, or street. Cross at 90 degrees to the road, stop before crossing, and stay at the extreme right.

Virginia

According to Virginia’s rules, you can use a side-by-side vehicle on public roads only if you are a farmer. In such a case, you must get permission and show proof of your occupation. Apart from that, you can also use the vehicle to cross a public road.

Washington

Washington prohibits the use of UTVs and ATVs on public roads and highways. The state allows you to drive such a vehicle across public roads, given its speed limit is 35 mph or less.

West Virginia

In West Virginia, you may ride a side-by-side vehicle on the shoulder of a public road when traveling from one trailer to another. However, you must ensure your speed limit does not exceed 20 mph. You can also use the vehicle to cross the street at 90 degrees to the road while staying on the extreme right.

Wisconsin

Using a side-by-side vehicle is prohibited in public areas such as roads and highways. However, such a vehicle is allowed on public roads for agricultural purposes. Even then, you will need permission to get by showing proof of your occupation.

Wyoming

Wyoming allows its residents to convert their side-by-side vehicle into a street-legal one. You can do this by obtaining a multipurpose vehicle permit (MVP). To get the MVP, your vehicle must be equipped with all the prerequisites and requirements.

You have a general idea about the rules in each state. Here is a list of authorities that you can contact for details about the local laws for side-by-side.

How to Get Region-Specific Information for Side-by-Sides?

DMV

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the best option for collecting detailed information. The government agency at the state level regulates vehicle registration and driving licenses.

Your DMV can tell you about the side-by-side rules in your region, along with whether you need to register or not. You can obtain this agency’s requirements and registration procedure if you do. You may call, view the website, or visit your state DMV office for complete details.

You can also gather all the information about making your side-by-side street legal.

City and County

The state government often leaves a side-by-side vehicle’s jurisdiction to the county and city authorities. Hence, it is one of the wisest options to clear your doubts regarding a UTV or ATV from your local officials.

Some cities may restrict the use of such vehicles due to noise pollution, traffic congestion, and safety. You can collect detailed information on your city-specific laws on their official website. Alternatively, you can consider consulting the local police from the same.

Local Side-by-Side Clubs and Groups

Are you new to the state or recently bought a side-by-side vehicle? Whatever the case, your city will surely have a few local groups of side-by-side owners. Contacting these groups can give you insight into your city’s complete scenario.

From all the rules and regulations to the requirements and restrictions, you can acquire all the details from your fellow side-by-side operators. Apart from that, they can also make you aware of the loopholes in the laws.

If you want to know about converting your vehicle into a street-legal one, you will surely find someone with one.

Law

Learning about state and regional laws from official sources is unparalleled, even if they concern vehicles. You can get the best information by reading the specific laws yourself.

Such laws are usually provided in detail on the city and state websites. Alternatively, you can consider a lawyer you are acquainted with.

Forest Services

Public roads also include the areas of National Forest land. In some areas, you may be unable to drive your side-by-side vehicle on the mountains and roads of National Forests. You surely do not want to get fined by a forest officer.

So, in addition to checking with the city laws and authorities, you must also contact the forest services. They can provide the correct details about driving side-by-side in forest lands.

To Sum Up

Only a UTV owner will know that no other vehicle can be as fun as riding a side-by-side vehicle. If you are reading this article, you are probably one of them. Though these vehicles are full of thrill and adventure, using them at unauthorized places may cost you hundreds of dollars.

So, are side-by-sides legal? They are legal in most of the states, but not all. Also, all side-by-sides are legally used on private properties, given that they are registered.

In this article, you learned about the laws related to side-by-side use in various states. Also, you get an insight into the prerequisites and requirements for legalizing your vehicle.

So, double-check with the authorities, drive only in the permitted areas, and have an electrifying side-by-side ride!

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