What side-by-side driving means and where it's allowed

A side-by-side vehicle (also called an ATV, UTV, or utility terrain vehicle) is a wide, open-frame machine built for off-road use. Whether you can legally drive one on public roads depends entirely on your state and sometimes your county — there is no single federal rule. Most states allow side-by-sides on public roads only under specific conditions: the vehicle must be registered and insured, the driver must have a valid license, and the roads must be designated as open to off-road vehicles.

Some states have no public-road side-by-side use at all. Others allow it on any public road. Most fall in the middle: they permit it on certain road types (rural roads, county roads, state highways) but not others (interstate highways, city streets). A few states allow it only on roads within a specific county or region. The rules can change year to year, so checking your state's current regulations before you buy or drive is essential.

Key Takeaways

  • Side-by-side vehicles are legal on public roads in most states, but only if the vehicle is registered, insured, and meets safety equipment requirements.
  • Each state sets its own rules about which roads allow side-by-sides, and many states restrict them to rural or county roads only.
  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or Department of Natural Resources website lists which roads are open and what paperwork you need.
  • Safety equipment requirements vary by state but typically include headlights, taillights, mirrors, and a muffler.
  • Some states require a special off-road vehicle registration separate from your regular car registration.

How to find out what your state allows

Start with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Search for "side-by-side public roads" or "UTV road use" on that site. Most states have a dedicated page listing which roads are open to off-road vehicles and what the vehicle must have to be street-legal. If the DMV site does not have the answer, try your state's Department of Natural Resources or Department of Fish and Wildlife — they often manage off-road vehicle regulations.

If you cannot find the information online, call your county assessor's office or your local sheriff's department. They know which roads in your area are designated for side-by-side use. Some counties have their own rules that are stricter than the state rule, so checking locally matters even if your state allows it statewide.

Registration and insurance requirements

Most states that allow side-by-sides on public roads require you to register the vehicle, though the process differs from registering a car. Some states use the standard vehicle registration form; others have a separate off-road vehicle registration. You will need the vehicle's title or bill of sale, proof of ownership, and your driver's license. Registration fees vary widely — some states charge $25 to $50 per year, while others charge more.

Insurance is also required in most states. Some insurance companies offer standard side-by-side policies; others do not. Call your current auto insurer first — many will add a side-by-side to your policy for a small additional premium. If they will not, search for "UTV insurance" or "side-by-side insurance" in your state. Liability coverage is the minimum, but collision and comprehensive coverage are also available if you want them.

Safety equipment your vehicle must have

States that allow side-by-sides on public roads typically require specific safety equipment. The most common requirements are a working headlight and taillight, a rearview mirror (or two side mirrors), a muffler, and a horn. Some states also require a windshield or a roll cage. A few states require a seat belt system. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list — equipment rules can change, and missing one item can result in a ticket or a failed inspection.

Many side-by-sides come from the factory with some of this equipment already installed. If yours does not, aftermarket parts are widely available online and at powersports dealers. Installation is usually straightforward, though some items (like a roll cage) may require professional help. Budget $200 to $500 for a full equipment package if you are starting from scratch.

Driver licensing and age requirements

Most states require the driver to hold a valid driver's license — the same license you use to drive a car. A few states allow unlicensed drivers to operate a side-by-side on public roads if they are supervised by a licensed adult, but this is uncommon. Some states require a separate off-road vehicle safety certificate, which you get by taking an online or in-person course. Check your state's rules before you let anyone drive your vehicle on a public road.

Age rules vary. Some states set a minimum age (often 16 or 18) for solo driving on public roads, while others have no age minimum as long as the driver is licensed. A few states allow younger drivers to operate side-by-sides on public roads only if they have completed a safety course. Your state's DMV website will list the age requirement for your area.

Roads that are typically closed to side-by-sides

Interstate highways are almost never open to side-by-sides, regardless of state. City streets and town roads are usually closed as well, though some rural towns allow them. State highways are sometimes open and sometimes closed depending on the state. The safest assumption is that any road with a speed limit above 45 mph or heavy traffic is not open to side-by-sides unless your state explicitly says otherwise.

Private property is always off-limits unless you have the owner's permission in writing. Even if a road looks abandoned, if it is not marked as open to off-road vehicles, driving on it can result in a trespassing citation. When in doubt, call your county road department or sheriff's office and ask whether a specific road is open before you drive on it.

What happens if you drive illegally

Penalties for driving an unregistered or uninsured side-by-side on a public road vary by state. Most states treat it as a traffic violation, which can result in a fine ranging from $50 to $500 or more. Some states also allow officers to impound the vehicle. Driving without a license or without required safety equipment carries similar penalties. Repeat violations can result in higher fines or even criminal charges in some states.

If you are involved in an accident while driving an unregistered or uninsured side-by-side, you may be personally liable for all damages — medical bills, vehicle repairs, and property damage. Insurance will not cover you if the vehicle was not registered or insured at the time of the accident. This liability can follow you for years through wage garnishment or liens on your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a side-by-side on any county road?

Not automatically. Even if your state allows side-by-sides on county roads, individual counties can restrict or prohibit them on specific roads. Call your county road department to confirm which county roads are open before you drive.

Do I need a special driver's license to operate a side-by-side on public roads?

No — a standard driver's license is sufficient in most states. A few states require an off-road vehicle safety certificate, which you get through an online or classroom course. Check your state's DMV website to see if your state requires one.

What if my side-by-side does not have a headlight or mirror?

You cannot legally drive it on public roads in most states. You will need to install the required equipment before taking it out. Aftermarket headlights, mirrors, and other safety gear are available at powersports dealers and online retailers.

Can I drive a side-by-side on a state highway?

It depends on your state and the specific highway. Some states allow it on certain state highways; others prohibit it on all state highways. Your state's DMV website should list which highways are open. If it does not, call your state police or DMV directly.

What if I get pulled over while driving a side-by-side?

Have your registration, insurance card, and driver's license ready. If the officer cites you for a violation, you can contest it in traffic court. If you were driving an unregistered or uninsured vehicle, the fine will likely be higher than if you had been registered and insured.