Off-Highway Vehicle Decals
All off-highway vehicles (OHVs) designed by the manufacturer primarily for use over unimproved terrain and that weigh 2,500 pounds or less are required by law to display a valid OHV decal to operate on public and state trust lands in Arizona. This includes “street legal” vehicles that meet these two requirements.
Resident OHV Decal
Arizona residents can purchase an OHV decal for $25 (plus a processing fee) through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices statewide, an authorized third-party MVD service provider or online at www.servicearizona.com.
The OHV decal is valid for one year from the date of purchase. For example, if you purchased your OHV decal in January 2018, you have until January 2019 to purchase the renewal OHV decal.
Residents must display the OHV decal in the upper left hand corner of the license plate. For more information about registration and different license plate types, visit the OHV FAQ section.
Nonresident OHV Decal
As of Sept. 1, 2019, the state of Arizona requires nonresidents wanting to operate their OHV within the state to purchase a nonresident OHV decal. The decal must be purchased prior to riding an OHV within the state.
How to purchase a nonresident OHV decal
The nonresident OHV decal costs $25 (plus a processing fee) and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. This decal can only be purchased online through an Arizona Game and Fish Department portal account. The decal will not be sold at AZGFD offices.
Nonresidents with multiple machines must purchase additional decals — each OHV must have its own decal. Nonresidents must display the decal on the left rear quarter panel of OHVs with/ three or more wheels, or on the left fork leg on two-wheeled vehicles.
Additional information
- Decals are not transferable between OHVs and each machine must have its own sticker.
- The nonresident OHV decal will be mailed within two to three weeks from the date of purchase. Purchasers can show their receipt (or a screenshot of it) for up to 30 days as proof of decal purchase. Owners/riders must have the receipt readily available if requested by law enforcement or until they receive their decal(s).
- Exemptions can be found in ARS 28-1178 and include those participating in OHV special events, operating on private land, loading or unloading from a vehicle, during a period of emergency if directed by a peace officer or if it displays a valid dealer license plate.
- Decals shall be displayed on the driver’s side of the vehicle as shown on the decal paperwork that they will receive with their decals.
Where Do the Decal Dollars Go?
Funding raised by the decal program supports OHV opportunities and rider education in the state. Thirty percent of the funds collected go into the state’s Highway User Revenue Fund, which is distributed to counties and cities for road and highway maintenance. The remaining 70 percent of the funds are split as follows:
- 60 percent to Arizona State Parks for grants and agreements, trail construction, development and maintenance, signage and maps.
- 35 percent to the Arizona Game and Fish Department for law enforcement, education and outreach.
- 5 percent to the Arizona State Land Department for mitigation, signage and enforcement.
