| Frequently Asked Questions |
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| General ATV questions |
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What are the general riding requirements?
- A valid Operating Permit from Oregon or a state with whom we have a reciprocal agreement.
- Operators of Class I and III ATVs that are younger than 18 must wear an Department of Transportation approved helmet.
- Mufflers in Oregon must be maintained at 99 decibels. Lower levels are required at Sand Lake (97 dB) and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (93 dB).
- Lights must be used in limited visibility, such as before sunrise, after sunset, or when you cannot see clearly ahead for 100 feet.
- Red flags displayed nine feet above ground are required when riding on sand (Sand Lake, Oregon Dunes, Christmas Valley, etc.)
- Working brakes are required.
- Windshield wipers are required on any vehicle equipped with a windshield.
- Follow the Standards for Off Road Vehicles.
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Class I and Class III all terrain vehicles are exempt from insurance requirements when operated off road.
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Check with the land manager in the areas you plan to ride on. They may also have additional requirements.
What is the difference between an ATV, OHV, and a UTV?
ATV=“All-Terrain Vehicle”; OHV = “Off-Highway Vehicle”; UTV = “Utility Vehicle.” Oregon law defines all motorized off-road vehicles, other than snowmobiles, as “All-terrain Vehicles.” These are divided into three classes (link to question 1).
What ATV Class Type is my side-by-side UTV?
Side-by-sides are Class II All-Terrain Vehicles because they are either too wide (greater than 50 inches) or too heavy (over 800 pounds) to be classified as Class I All-Terrain Vehicles.
Where can I go to get training for my side-by-side UTV?
Currently no training is available for side-by-sides in Oregon.
Do I need insurance to ride an ATV in Oregon?
While insurance is always a good idea, it’s only required for Class II ATVs.
Can I ride my ATV on paved streets or roads?
If your Class II or III ATV is not street-legal (Class I ATV's are never street legal), the only times you can ride on a paved road is when the area’s land manager has opened the road through signing, or when you have to cross the road to reach a designated ATV area. You cannot travel along the road for any length, and you must move directly across the road, perpendicular to the flow of traffic.
Can I still ride an ATV on public lands if my Oregon driver’s license is suspended?
No. Having a suspended driver’s license also suspends you from operating an ATV on public lands in Oregon.
Where can I find a map of designated ATV areas?
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department developed The Official Guide to OHV Oregon [672 KB, Acrobat required] which outlines designated off road areas within Oregon. Specific trail maps may be available for areas you are interesting in riding. OPRD does not have maps of these areas, but the local land manager may. Please contact the land manager in charge of the area. This would include the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, and county sites. We have a regional interactive map of riding areas on this website.
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| Safety Laws & Requirements |
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Introduction
Senate Bill 101 was signed into law by Governor Ted Kulongoski on August 15, 2007. The law requires safety education for operating a Class I or Class III ATV for recreation on public land. Class II vehicles are exempt because a driver’s license is required. The bill also includes new requirements for supervising youth, matching youth to properly fitting quads, and fastening helmet chin straps. These new requirements will be phased in between January 1, 2008 and January 1, 2014.
Riders are exempt if using an ATV for farming, agriculture, forestry, nursery, Christmas tree growing operations, or riding on private land.
The following are Frequently Asked Questions about the requirements of Senate Bill 101.
All-Terrain Vehicle Training Requirements
What types of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are used in Oregon?
Class I: Vehicles 50 inches wide or less, and with a dry weight of 800 pounds or less. (Quads and 3-wheelers)
Class II: Vehicles more than 50 inches wide, or with a dry weight of more than 800 pounds.(Jeeps, sand-rails, dune buggies, side-by-side UTVs)
Class III: Vehicles riding on two tires, and with a dry weight of less than 600 pounds. (Dirt bikes and dual sport motorcycles)
Are there age restrictions for youth operating Class I or Class III ATVs in Oregon?
There is no minimum age for riding Class I ATVs. The minimum age for Class III riders is 7 years old. However, all youth under age 16 riding either Class I or Class III ATVs must always be supervised by an adult over age 18.
Who is required to complete Oregon’s ATV safety training?
Currently, ATV safety training is available in Oregon, but not required. Senate Bill 101 makes safety training mandatory for Class I and Class III operators. Starting January 1, 2009, the youngest and most vulnerable ATV operators, those under age 16, will be required to complete the safety course. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is currently developing an online safety and education program.
When will I need to complete this on-line safety training course?
The following phase-in schedule for mandatory safety training is included under state statute:
- Starting January 1, 2009, all youth under age 16 must complete on-line safety training. In addition, all youth under age 16 operating a Class I or Class III ATV on public lands must be supervised by an adult who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid ATV Safety Education Card. Therefore, any adult supervising a youth under age 16 must also complete the on-line safety training course starting on January 1, 2009.
- Starting January 1, 2010 all persons under age 31 must complete on-line safety training.
- Starting January 1, 2011 all persons under age 41 must complete on-line safety training.
- Starting January 1, 2012 all persons under age 51 must complete on-line safety training.
- Starting January 1, 2013 all persons under age 61 must complete on-line safety training.
- Starting January 1, 2014 all persons must complete on-line safety training.
Where do I go to take the on-line ATV safety training course?
You can take the on-line training course beginning January 1, 2009 by going to the following website: www.rideATVoregon.org.
I don’t have access to the internet at home. How can I take the course?
Most public libraries have computers available with free public internet access. You can also call our toll free number (503-986-0585) to request a hard copy of the study guide and test materials to complete and mail back to us.
Why is on-line safety training necessary?
The growing number of ATV-related deaths and injuries are attracting attention both in Oregon and nationally. The number of people who are killed and injured in ATV crashes continues to grow, but crash reports indicate that nearly all of these incidents are preventable. The goal of on-line safety training is to develop safe, responsible riding behaviors to reduce ATV-related deaths and injuries in Oregon.
Is there a minimum age for youth to take the on-line course?
Beyond the minimum age operation requirement for dirt bike riders, there is no minimum age for taking the online safety course. However, the study guide and testing materials are written at an eighth-grade reading level. As a result, we strongly encourage parents to go through the course materials and test with their child/children. Parents who pass the test will receive their ATV Safety Education Card as well. Even parents who choose not to take the final test find the course both informative and enjoyable.
Can I take the on-line course for all my children at one time?
A parent or supervising adult and up to four youth 15 years of age or younger may be certified by taking a single test. However, if a parent is assisting more than four youth, a separate test must be completed for any additional children 15 years old or younger. During initial account set up, a parent or supervising adult will be able to create a family account and add youth to their course account. Each additional adult and youth 16 and older will need to take the online course for themselves.
How can I prove that I have completed the on-line safety training course?
After studying and passing the on-line test, students will be mailed a plastic wallet-sized ATV Safety Education Card. This card must be on their person when operating a Class I or Class III ATV on lands open for public use.
How much will the on-line safety course cost?
There is no charge for the on-line safety course or the ATV Education Card. There will be a small $8 fee if you lose your card and request a replacement card.
How long will it take to receive my ATV Safety Education Card in the mail after I complete the on-line course?
Within two weeks of passing, you will receive your plastic wallet-sized ATV Safety Education Card. After the test, you will be allowed to print a temporary education card (good for 30 days). You may operate an ATV with this temporary card on your person.
I ride both quads and dirt bikes. Do I need to go through the on-line course twice?
No. Successful completion of the on-line training course will qualify you to operate either quads or dirt bikes with a single test.
If I or my child has already completed an American Safety Institute (ASI) or a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course, will we still need to complete the on-line safety course according to the phase in schedule?
Yes. The Oregon on-line safety course will provide you and your children with Oregon-specific rider safety information. Upon passing the test you can report if your child has already completed such a recognized hands-on training program.
If I have a dual sport motorcycle and a motorcycle endorsement on my driver’s license, will I need to complete the on-line safety course to ride it off road?
Yes. Your driver’s license endorsement shows you can ride safely on public roads. The on-line ATV safety course will instruct you to ride safely off-road on public lands.
What about experienced riders who wish to challenge the course?
Riders at least 16 years old with five or more years of experience operating a Class I or Class III ATV can challenge the course by taking an equivalency exam at www.rideATVoregon.org. Challengers will have a single chance to take the final exam without study guide materials. If they pass the exam, they will be issued an ATV Safety Education Card. If they fail, they will need to go through the standard on-line safety course.
What is the difference between an ATV Safety Education Card and an operating permit?
The ATV Safety Education Cardis associated with a person and is sent to those who pass the on-line safety course. The operating permit is a sticker associated with a vehicle. It is purchased for $10, is good for two years and allows the ATV on public lands in Oregon.
Where does my ATV Safety Education Card permit me to ride?
You may ride your ATV on public lands designated for off-road use. Click here for riding area information.
Will I need an ATV Safety Education Card if I rent a Class I or Class III in Oregon or take a guided tour offered by a rental business?
No. Renters are exempt but must complete a safety checklist administered by the rental business.
I’m from another state and wish to ride a Class I or Class III ATV in Oregon. Do I need to take the on-line safety course?
Yes, all non-residents riding in Oregon are required to take the on-line safety course and carry an ATV Safety Education card. They are exempt if they possess another state’s ATV Education Card.
What if I have additional questions about the on-line training course or other ATV safety requirements?
You have two options:
1. Email your question: atv.info@state.or.us
2. Call our toll free number: 1-877-7SAFELY (1-877-772-3359) (Oregon State Parks Information Center)
Class I All-Terrain Vehicle Youth Rider Fit Requirements
Why is there a need for youth rider fit requirements?
Special fit requirements have been created because of the large number of crashes involving riders under age 16. Crash research clearly identifies that riding too-large adult-sized quads is a significant injury and fatality risk. Rider fit requirements help parents and law enforcement officers measure a “proper fit” between youth and the quad they are operating.
What are the new rider-fit requirements?
Proposed in OAR 736-004-0115, a Class I ATV operator under age 16 must meet all the following minimum physical size requirements in relationship to the vehicle:
- Brake Reach: With hands placed in the normal operating position and fingers straight out, the first joint (from the tip) of the middle finger will extend beyond the brake lever and clutch.
- Leg Length: While sitting and with their feet on the pegs, the knee must be bent at least 45 degrees.
- Grip Reach: While sitting upright on the ATV with hands on the handlebars and not leaning forward, there must be a distinct angle between the upper arm and the forearm. The rider must be able to turn the handle bars from lock to lock while maintaining grip on the handle bars and maintaining throttle and brake control.
When will these new rider fit requirements be in place in Oregon?
The rider fit requirements will be effective on January 1, 2009. It is the supervising adult’s responsibility to insure that the youth is complying with the rider fit requirements.
Are there similar rider fit requirements for youth riding Class III All-Terrain Vehicles (dirt bikes)?
No. This requirement was not a part of Senate Bill 101.
Can my 12-year-old child go to the American Safety Institute (ASI) training course on his 250 cc quad?
No. ASI has their own rules for matching the age of the rider to the cubic centimeter displacement of the ATV’s engine.
Class I and Class III All-Terrain Vehicle Helmet Requirements
Are there new helmet rules for youth riding ATVs?
The helmet’s chin strap must be fastened. For youth under 18, a DOT or SNELL-approved helmet is required.
ATV Youth Supervision Requirements
The law states that the supervising adult must have a valid ATV Education Card. Am I supposed to go through on-line ATV training before I can ride with my child?
Yes. All youth under age 16 operating a Class I or Class III ATV on public lands must be supervised by an adult who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid ATV Safety Education Card. As a result, any adult supervising a youth under age 16 must also complete the on-line safety training course starting on January 1, 2009.
The law says that the supervising adult must be able to provide immediate assistance. What does that mean?
The youth being supervised must be able to hear and see the supervising adult. The adult needs to be capable of providing assistance to the youth without delay.
How will a law enforcement officer handle an unsupervised youth?
An officer may write a Class C traffic citation against the responsible supervising adult under Administrative Rule 821.291 (Endangering a Class I All-Terrain Vehicle Operator).
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| Permit questions |
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Where can I purchase an operating permit?
Any Oregon Parks & Recreation Department Area office and selected parks.
At any one of the many permit agents located throughout the state in stores and ATV dealerships.
You can also purchase the permit over the phone, with Visa or Mastercard, by calling 1-800-551-6949. Hours are 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Please have the following information ready when calling:
- Make
- Body Style (motorcycle, pickup, 4 wheeler, etc.)
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Name of owner
- Address (house number & street)
- Mailing address if different from above, and city, state, zip code
How much is a permit?
The price for a Class I, II or III permit is $10 to $10.50, depending on where the permit is purchased. All OPRD offices charge $10.
How long is the permit valid?
All permits, Class I, II, & III, are valid for 2 years from the date of issue.
What if I don't have a credit card?
You may purchase your permit by mail. Please include the same information as required for phone requests:
- Make
- Body Style (motorcycle, pickup, 4 wheeler, etc.)
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Name of owner
- Address (house number & street)
- Mailing address if different from above, and city, state, zip code
Enclose the $10 fee. Make check or money order payable to OPRD, and mail to: OPRD ATV PERMIT, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301.
What information do I need to provide to get a permit?
The same information that must be provided to purchase a permit by mail (see above). A title or other proof of ownership is not required to purchase an operating permit. Just provide your VIN (vehicle identification number).
What if my vehicle doesn't have a VIN (vehicle identification number)?
Most factory made motorcycles, quads, and vehicles do. If it doesn’t, you may use a serial number from the vehicle, usually located on the motor. Or you may use a description of the vehicle; color and number of seats, etc.
Do I need a title for my vehicle?
No, it is not required to have a title for an ATV. It is recommended that all ATVs are "optionally" titled through DMV for theft and ownership purposes.
I lost my permit. Can it be replaced?
Permits will be replaced for the full fee. A new permit must be issued.
What's the difference between an operating permit and an operator permit?
The ATV operator permit is not the same as an operating permit. The operator permit is only required if a rider is not supervised and does not have a drivers license. In order to obtain an operator permit a rider must successfully complete the ATV safety education course.
I am from out of state, is my homestate permit valid in Oregon?
An ATV/OHV operating permit that is issued in another state shall be honored in the State of Oregon if the issuing state also honors an Oregon ATV operating permit. This arrangement is Reciprocity. The ATV must have a resident state ATV/OHV operating permit or a State of Oregon ATV operating permit to operate the ATV on designated Oregon ATV areas. A State of Oregon ATV operating permit may be issued for all terrain vehicles owned by a resident of another state that does not have a permitting program. For a list of states that have reciprocity with Oregon, please visit the Reciprocity Information Page.
What is the penalty for operating without a permit and decal in designated areas?
A person who operates an off road vehicle in a designated off road area or trail without a permit and decal is subject to a Class C traffic violation, which imposes a maximum fine of $180.
I'm interested in being a permit agent. Where do I get more information?
Contact Max Coley at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
2008 ATV Agent Manual [453 KB] Requires Acrobat
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| Contact info |
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Who do I contact within OPRD for ATV program information?
Ron Price
ATV Program Coordinator
OPRD Grants Section
(503) 986-0706
Max Coley
ATV Program Specialist
Permit Programs
(503) 986-0712
John Lane
ATV Safety and Education Program Coordinator
(503) 986-0585
How do I reach them by email?
Use the email address: atv.info@state.or.us
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| Miscellaneous |
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Can I still get a title, or transfer a title on my ATV?
Yes, please contact Driver and Motor Vehicle Services online or call (503) 945-5000, or contact the local DMV field office in your area. It is optional, but no longer mandatory, to title a Class I ATV. It is highly recommended to have your class I or class III ATV "optionally" titled through DMV.
Where do I get a permit for my snowmobile?
OPRD does not issue permits for snowmobiles. Snowmobile permits are issued through DMV. Please contact the Driver and Motor Vehicle Services.Their phone number is (503) 945-5000.
Where can I find Oregon laws governing ATVs?
Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 821, Chapter 811, and Chapter 390 covers nearly all the state law pertaining to ATVs.
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