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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Is Polaris RZR Considered as Street Legal
UTV, more commonly known as “Side by Sides,” has overtaken the world in the past decade. Every adventure junkie owns one, and those who don’t yet can’t wait to get their hands on it. Its compact and functional design and all-terrain adaptability make it a top choice for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
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- UTV Popularity: UTVs, particularly the Polaris RZR, are widely popular for their versatility in work, racing, and off-road adventures.
- Street-Legal Status: Polaris RZRs can be street-legal in many U.S. states, but this depends on specific state regulations and required modifications.
- Modification Requirements: Common modifications needed to make a Polaris RZR street-legal include installing safety lights, side-view mirrors, windshields, street-approved tires, bumpers, and horns and ensuring the vehicle is registered and insured.
- State-Specific Rules: Regulations for driving a Polaris RZR on the street vary by state. Some states allow usage with minimal changes, and others impose stricter conditions or prohibit it altogether.
UTVs don’t only come in handy in handling farm work or using it for hunting. They are exceptional vehicles for curious explorers to ride over many riding destinations.
From work, hauling, racing, and thrilling off-road adventures, UTVs have always come through for every need. A trusted and popular brand that deals with UTVs is Polaris. One of their most sold UTV models is the Polaris RZR. Given how similar they are to a typical car, many wonder how they can make their Polaris RZR’s street legal.
If you own a Polaris RZR and have the same thoughts – you’ve found the correct article. This article will discuss whether Polaris RZR is considered street-legal in your state. If not, you’ll get to know how you could do so.
Ready to ride your Polaris RZR on your state roads? Read on!
Is Polaris RZR Street Legal?
UTV, short for Utility Terrain Vehicle (or Utility Task Vehicle), is almost like a car with seating for two to four people. While UTVs are mainly used for work and recreational purposes, they are considered street-legal. However, there’s a catch here—not all states in the US deem them street-legal.
There’s good news if you’re wondering whether the Polaris RZR is street-legal. You have a green signal for driving the Polaris RZR in many states. Before you fret about whether your state considers it street-legal or not, hold your horses!
With certain modifications on your Polaris RZR, you can make it street-legal. If you add a few tweaks like safety lights, front windshield, rearview mirrors, etc., you can ride your RZR on the streets. Not to forget, you’ll also need to get a registration for the same.
Although, remember that the requirements will vary from state to state. To know which changes you’ll need to make in your Polaris RZR, you must read up about it.
Which States Allow Polaris RZR On the Streets?
Did you know that almost half of the US states allow you to drive a UTV on the road? However, many clauses and rules apply here. Although a UTV is like a car, it has its own set of street safety complications.
Nonetheless, many states will allow your Polaris RZR on the road, provided you comply with certain regulations. Many of the UTV rules are closely linked to the ATV laws.
Below is a handy table showing the requirements for driving a Polaris RZR on the road.
| Name of the state | Requirements |
| Arizona | A statewide licensing is needed. |
| Hawaii | Is allowed only for use as farm equipment. |
| Idaho | A statewide licensing is needed. They also have an ‘out of state’ program. |
| Indiana | Needs to be grandfathered in. |
| Iowa | There’s no statewide system that is set in place. Different counties have their exceptions. |
| Kansas | Is allowed for ice fishing only. |
| Maine | You will require a registration |
| Massachusetts | People under 18 will need to take a recreational vehicle safety course. Other small laws are applicable. You’ll also need to add these changes to your UTVs:
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| Missouri | The following will be required:
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| Montana | Your UTV needs to be registered and licensed. It should also have taillights and headlights. |
| New Jersey | Your UTV needs to be registered. You also need to renew this registration every year. |
| New Mexico | It is dependent on the county. It will vary for all. |
| Oklahoma | There’s no statewide licensing required. However, other requirements depend on the county. |
| South Dakota | A statewide licensing is needed. |
| Tennessee | Entirely dependent on the area. |
| Utah | A statewide licensing is needed. It cannot be operated in the following:
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| Washington | It is dependent on the county. |
| Wisconsin | It can only be used for agricultural purposes. |
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Polaris RZR
As you can see from the above table, some states consider it street-legal while others don’t. They all have their set of modifications that you can do to use the RZR on the highway or roads. You must’ve noticed that many states have provided the cities and counties with their rules.
It is sensible to check the rules and requirements in your state. This will help you decide whether making all the modifications is worthwhile.
Is There Any State-Specific Requirement You Must Know to Make Your RZR Street Legal?
Apart from the general regulations, a few requirements are specific to some states. Given below are some of them.
- If you want to use Polaris RZR on the street or highway, you will only require one mirror on the UTV.
- Apart from Salt Lake City, I-50, and I-70, you can drive your RZR on the Utah roads.
- For many states like Washington and Nevada, the maximum speed limit you drive your RZR in is 45 mph or less.
- Similarly, for Tennessee, the maximum speed limit for UTVs on the road is 35 mph.
- To drive your RZR on the Michigan roads, you must put windshield wipers and washers on your vehicle.
What Changes Do You Need to Make to Your Polaris RZR To Make It Street Legal?
Finally, here is the section you’ve been waiting to read. It would be best if you made some changes to make your Polaris RZR fit to be driven on roads. Even though UTVs are loaded with most of the things that you’ll require to make them street-legal, there could be scope for additions like:
- Safety Lights
- Installed Mirrors
- A windshield at the front
- Installed Bumpers as well as horn
- Insurance of the UTV
- Registration of the UTV
Most of the UTVs in the market already come with company-fitted headlights, seatbelts, taillights, mufflers, brake lights, etc. However, your state mentioned that your UTV could lack a few requirements. Being safe and legal when hitting the paved road is always prudent.
All You Need to Know About Making Polaris RZR Street Safe
We’ve provided a detailed section better to understand some vital safety requirements for the road.
Safety Light Requirements
Lucky for you, Polaris RZR already comes with safety lights. You need to ensure that they adhere to state regulations. You may need to replace your lights with more powerful ones.
Generally, the headlights of the UTV must illuminate at least 500 feet ahead. This ensures these lights can be used for speed when stepping on the pedal. The tail lights must also be bright enough to be spotted from at least 500 feet behind you. You can also purchase the DOT (US Department of Transportation) approved lights.
Even the brake and turn lights need to be strong and visible. You can be pulled over for insufficient safety lights if they’re not.
Side-View Mirrors
According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), you must install side-view mirrors. To make your RZR street legal, mirrors must be placed on both sides. It will keep you safe from any accidents.
Windshield
Putting a front windshield is crucial to making your RZR street legal. Both DOT and NHTSA require it. The rules they set are, according to the ANSI (American National Standard Institute). When three organizations ask you to do it – you should.
Tires
As you know, the UTV tires are best for off-roading. They don’t meet the standards set by DOT. You can get street-friendly tires that are DOT-approved online. You can take your RZR tires down the road by changing them up.
Horn and Bumpers
Horn is vital for the road as it helps to warn people. It’s a mode of communication in your vehicle. Bumpers, on the other hand, are meant for safety. You must inquire as to which type of bumper is required for RZR. You can also check your state’s requirements to see if any other requirements will be met.
Insurance
Some of the states, as well as state parks, do require you to have insurance for your UTVs. You’ll need to get this done before registering your RZR for road use.
Registration
To get on-road with your RZR, you must register it. Many states nationwide will require it if you intend to use your RZR on public roads.
License Plate
Like cars, you’ll be required to mount your license plate on both the front and the back of your RZR. If you wish to use your UTV like a car, you must incorporate all the necessary elements.
Title of Ownership
The title of ownership also comes in handy when you get pulled over by the cops. Many states require it.
Summing Up
UTVs are a fun vehicle to get your work done and please that adventurous streak. They are used extensively for off-roading as well as many other activities. You must check your state’s rules if you own a Polaris RZR and wish to take it on the road.
Many states allow UTVs to be used on roads. Adding certain accessories to your RZR allows you to ride around the town easily!
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