If you, or someone you know, received a new off-highway vehicle (OHV) for the holidays, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) offers these important reminders before hitting the trail:
- A helmet. Whether riding in a side-by-side utility-type vehicle (UTV), all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or dirt bike, all riders younger than 18 are legally required to wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders older than 18.
- Eye protection, such as riding goggles, is legally required for all riders if the OHV is not equipped with a windshield.
- Riding gloves should be worn at all times to protect your hands while riding and enhance your grip while driving.
- Wear proper clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt, pants and over-the-ankle boots.
- Take the free mandatory educational course. Legislation now requires that any person who is purchasing the decal required to operate an OHV in Arizona must complete a basic educational course before purchase. The free course, created by AZGFD, includes content related to the safe operations of these vehicles. The course consists of a 10-minute instructional video, followed by 20 multiple-choice questions. The course will be required one time for at least one of the OHV owners prior to vehicle registrations or renewals between Jan. 1, 2025, and June 1, 2027. For more information about the course, visit azdot.gov/mvd/OHV.
- Register your OHV and purchase required decal. All vehicles designed by the manufacturer primarily for travel on unimproved terrain, and weighing 2,500 pounds or less, are required to have a $25 OHV decal to operate on public and state lands. More information for residents and nonresidents is available on the department’s website.
Always remember to supervise children under 16 and check to ensure that children are riding an age-appropriate vehicle. Machines may be too large and powerful for a child to safely operate. Parents are ultimately responsible for their children’s safety.
Riders should only carry the number of passengers for which the machine is designed.
One of the biggest causes of OHV-related injuries is riding with more than the recommended number of passengers. Proper riding techniques require operators to shift their weight and change position to keep control of the machine. Carrying a passenger can make riding difficult and change how the vehicle responds. For additional OHV safety information, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.