Microsoft Word - Off Road or All Terrain Vehicle.doc

Note: While we have tried to compile a complete listing of laws regarding this type of mobility device, additional requirements may apply. To read

additional law requirements please visit the Washington State legislative Web site at http://www.leg.wa.gov/LawsAndAgencyRules/

(RCW 46.09.020) "Off-road vehicle" or "ORV" means any nonstreet

licensed vehicle when used for recreational purposes on nonhighway

roads, trails, or a variety of other natural terrain. Such vehicles include, but

are not limited to, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, four-wheel drive

vehicles, and dune buggies.”

Examples:

Use

 Not street legal – may be operated on a nonhighway road and in parking

areas serving designated off-road vehicle areas if the state, federal, local,

or private authority responsible for the management of the nonhighway

road authorizes the use of off-road vehicles; and on a street, road, or

highway as authorized under RCW 46.09.360

. (RCW 46.09.450)

 May be used on private property if the owner grants approval (RCW

46.09.450)

 Must be 13 years old to operate, persons under 13 may operate under

direct supervision of a person 18 or older possessing a valid drivers

license (RCW 46.09.460

)

Note: No three or four wheel off-road vehicle can be altered to become

street legal in Washington State. A manufacturer must certify that the

vehicle meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for

street use in order for a vehicle to be licensed for street use in Washington

State.

Starting January 1, 2012, some two wheel motorcycles may be licensable

IF a declaration form is filed with the Department of Licensing which

must include certification by a licensed dealer or repair shop that the

modifications made comply with FMVSS and state laws. For more

information regarding this please visit the Department of Licensing Web

site at www.dol.wa.gov

Licensing

 No Drivers License needed (RCW 46.16A.030

)

 Must have a use permit (RCW 46.09.440

)

 Must display current ORV tag (RCW 46.09.440

)

Vehicle Equipment

 Spark Arrester (RCW 46.09.470

)

 Muffler (86 decibel limit)( RCW 46.09.470

)

 Helmet (Except for off-road vehicles equipped with seat belts and roll

bars or an enclosed passenger compartment) (RCW 46.09.470

)

Off Road or All Terrain Vehicle/Motorcycle Resource Sheet

07/11