Are ATVs Street Legal in Arizona?

All-terrain vehicles have been a fun way to get around since the 1960s. However, since they are not traditional automobiles, are ATVs street legal in Arizona?

The answer makes a difference. If you or a loved one gets hurt on an ATV, the liable party may try to argue that you were operating the vehicle improperly or illegally.

That would mean they might not have to pay compensation for your damages. Find out Arizona’s rules about whether 4-wheelers are street legal and how the Phoenix personal injury lawyers at Sargon Law Group can help after an accident.

When Are ATVs Street Legal?

ATVs are street legal in Arizona under certain circumstances and conditions. In general, they must meet similar standards to other roadworthy vehicles.

Registration, Title, License, and Tag

For starters, your ATV must have vehicle registration. You also have to keep an off-highway vehicle decal visible on the ATV.

Additionally, your vehicle needs a license plate and license plate lights. A certificate of title is another requirement for ATV and OHV owners who wish to travel on public roads.

Operators must also have a valid driver’s license while traveling public streets. Roads maintained by the Bureau of Land Management or Forest Service also meet that designation.

Insurance Requirements

Another requirement to ensure ATVs are street legal is sufficient insurance. Arizona requires liability insurance equal to what cars must have.



That includes bodily injury liability at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. You must also carry $15,000 in property damage insurance.

Safety Features

Specific features for your and others’ safety are needed to ensure ATVs are street legal:

• At least one headlight and one taillight are visible from 500 feet away
• A horn that others can hear from 200 feet away
• Seats and footrests for each rider
• A muffler that keeps engine noise below 96 decibels
• At least one rear brake light or reflector

To be roadworthy, the vehicle should also have working brakes, a rearview mirror, a spark arrestor device, and a fuel tank cap. Note that an ATV cannot have more than two headlights.

Can You Ride an ATV Around Your Neighborhood?

You can only ride around your neighborhood through public streets on ATVs that are street legal and meet Arizona’s requirements. If your neighborhood consists of private roads, your ATV does not necessarily have to be street legal.

Are 4-Wheelers Street Legal if You’re Not Wearing a Helmet?

Adults riding on ATVs do not have to wear a helmet. Minors must wear a DOT-approved helmet, whether a driver or a passenger. Though helmets are not necessary, all riders must wear safety goggles.

How Do Emissions Affect When ATVs Are Street Legal?

Maricopa County has restrictions for riding ATVs and OHVs on days with a High Pollution Advisory. That includes cities like Glendale, Avondale, and Queen Creek.

Have an Accident With an ATV That Is Street Legal? Contact Us

You should do all you can to ensure your ATVs are street legal. Unfortunately, you cannot control what others do. If you experience an accident, our team at Sargon Law Group can help you determine your next steps for justice. Contact us for a free consultation.