Arizona is a haven for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, boasting diverse terrains perfect for adventure. If you’re planning to explore Arizona’s trails with your ATV, dirt bike, UTV, or side-by-side, understanding the OHV decal requirements is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Arizona OHV decal registration and renewal, ensuring you’re compliant and ready to ride.
Arizona OHV Decal: Who Needs It?
In Arizona, a valid OHV decal is mandatory for all off-highway vehicles primarily designed for use on unimproved terrain and weighing 2,500 pounds or less. This law applies when operating on public and state trust lands within Arizona. Whether you’re a resident or visiting from out of state, if your OHV fits this description and you plan to ride on designated OHV areas, you’ll need an Arizona OHV decal.
OHV Decal Requirements for Arizona Residents
For Arizona residents, obtaining an OHV decal involves a straightforward process through the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). A key requirement for residents is completing the free online course, “OHV Decal: Safe & Ethical Riding in Arizona.” This course promotes responsible OHV operation and is mandatory for at least one registered owner to purchase a decal.
Arizona residents have the option to register their OHV as either “street legal” or “off-highway.” This choice dictates where you can legally operate your vehicle:
- Street Legal Registration: Allows operation on highways, maintained roads, as well as non-maintained roads and trails.
- Off-Highway Registration: Permits operation only on non-maintained roads and trails.
When registering or renewing your OHV registration with the MVD, it’s advisable to purchase your OHV decal beforehand. This proactive step can potentially reduce your vehicle license tax, particularly if your OHV weighs under 2,500 pounds and is declared for primarily off-highway use.
Learn more about resident decal information
OHV Decal for Non-Residents: What to Expect
Arizona welcomes OHV enthusiasts from out of state. Starting January 1, 2025, non-resident customers will need to create a free account on the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) portal to purchase their OHV decal and complete the mandatory “OHV Decal: Safe & Ethical Riding in Arizona” course.
Non-resident OHV decals are specifically for off-highway use on non-maintained roads and trails. It’s important to note that non-resident OHV decals do not grant “street legal” operation on maintained roads. With a non-resident decal, you must trailer your OHV to designated trailheads and areas with unimproved roads. Incidental crossings of maintained roads are permitted. Arizona no longer recognizes OHV decals issued by other states, so an Arizona non-resident OHV decal is essential for legal OHV riding in the state.
Renew or purchase your non-resident decal here
Understanding “Street Legal” OHV Registration
Operating your OHV on roads that meet the definition of a highway in Arizona (which includes paved and maintained dirt roads) requires “street legal” registration. This applies to both residents and non-residents. If your home state or province doesn’t offer “street legal” registration for OHVs, you’ll need to register as “street legal” through the Arizona MVD or an authorized third-party service provider.
“Street legal” registration assigns a motorcycle designation to your license plate (though newer plates may not display “MC”). The registration sticker goes in the upper right corner, and the OHV decal is placed in the upper left corner of the plate.
For non-residents seeking “street legal” registration, stricter requirements apply. Generally, short-term visitors are not eligible. To obtain Arizona “street legal” registration as a non-resident, you typically need a domicile in Arizona, your OHV must be “garaged” in Arizona, and you must have an Arizona insurance policy. If you meet these criteria, contact the MVD or an authorized third-party service provider. If granted “street legal” registration, non-residents should purchase a resident OHV decal through the MVD.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona OHV Decals
To further clarify the OHV decal process, here are some frequently asked questions:
What are the specific requirements for Arizona residents to get an OHV decal?
Arizona residents must register their OHV and obtain their decal through the MVD or an authorized third-party. Completing the “OHV Decal: Safe & Ethical Riding in Arizona” online course by at least one registered owner is mandatory before decal purchase. Residents choose between “street legal” or “off-highway” registration, determining road usage permissions.
What about non-residents? What do they need to do?
Starting January 1, 2025, non-residents will need to create an AZGFD portal account, complete the online safety course, and purchase their non-resident OHV decal through the AZGFD website. Non-resident decals are for off-highway use only on non-maintained roads and trails. “Street legal” registration for non-residents has stricter requirements and is not available to all.
What equipment is needed to make an OHV street legal in Arizona?
To make an OHV street legal in Arizona, it must have the following:
- At least one brake operable by hand or foot
- Brake light
- Headlight(s) and taillight(s) visible for 500 feet (for operation between dusk and dawn)
- At least one red rear reflector
- License plate securely attached with a license plate light
- Eye protection for the driver (or a windshield)
- Spark arrestor
- Horn and muffler
- Rearview mirror
- Seat and footrests for operator and passengers
- Fuel tank cap
- Vehicle insurance and valid driver’s license
- Helmet with DOT rating for riders under 18
What is “Title Only” registration for residents?
“Title Only” registration, also known as “Off Highway” designated license plate, is for residents who only operate their OHV off-highway. It restricts operation to non-maintained roads and trails, prohibiting use on paved or graded dirt roads (except for incidental crossings to access trails). OHVs with “Title Only” registration must be trailered to off-highway riding locations. This registration type is available to residents through the MVD or authorized third-party providers.
Enjoy Arizona’s Outdoors Responsibly
Renewing your Arizona OHV decal is a vital step in ensuring you can legally and responsibly enjoy the state’s incredible off-road riding opportunities. By understanding the requirements and following the guidelines outlined, you can keep your adventures legal and protect Arizona’s natural landscapes for everyone to enjoy. Remember to always ride safely, ethically, and within your limits.
