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In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of street-legal laws for these vehicles in the Silver State. While the general consensus is that ATVs and UTVs cannot be registered for on-road use, there are exceptions and restrictions that allow for certain circumstances where they can be operated on public roads. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of Nevada’s ATV and UTV laws, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of what is permissible and what is not when it comes to hitting the pavement with your off-road machine.
1. Can I register my ATV or UTV as street-legal in Nevada?
No, you cannot register your ATV or UTV as street-legal in Nevada according to the Nevada Revised Statutes. This means they cannot be legally operated on public roads and highways.
ATVs and UTVs are permitted for use as offroad vehicles in Nevada, and there are some exceptions to the policy at the county or city level, or under special circumstances outlined below.
2. Why does Nevada not allow ATVs or UTVs to register as street-legal?
ATVs and UTVs cannot be registered as street-legal in Nevada because these are manufactured for off-road use and do not meet federal vehicle standards. Only two-wheeled motorcycles may be converted for on-road use but other off-highway vehicles like ATVs and UTVs cannot be converted, and thus, cannot be registered for use on public roads and highways in Nevada. This said, there are a number of exceptions to this policy (see question 3, below).
3. Where can I legally ride my ATV or UTV in Nevada?
In Nevada, you may still legally ride your ATV or UTV in parks and trails. If you are a resident of Nevada, then you will need to get an OHV Registration, whereas, if you are a non-resident, you can apply for an OHV Permit.
While ATVs, UTVs, or off-highway vehicles are generally prohibited for use on public roads and highways in Nevada, there are a few exemptions to this rule. You may be able to operate your ATV or UTV in public highways not designated for off-highway vehicle use under these circumstances:
- If the ATV or UTV is driven on the highway to cross it, comes to a full stop before crossing, and crosses as close as possible to perpendicular to the direction of travel on the highway;
- If the ATV or UTV is driven on the highway to load or unload it onto or off of another vehicle or trailer, as long as the loading or unloading is done as close as possible to where the off-highway vehicle is being driven;
- In an emergency, if it’s impossible or impractical to use another vehicle or if a police officer tells you how to drive the ATV or UTV; or
- If the ATV or UTV is driven for no more than 2 miles on a part of a highway that is marked as a trail connection for an off-highway vehicle-friendly trail.
4. If I register my ATV or UTV in another state, can I drive it on Nevada roads? (Registration Reciprocity)
Yes, if your ATV or UTV is properly registered as street-legal in another state, then you may drive it on Nevada roads. This is because the state of Nevada honors Registration Reciprocity. The condition for this though is that the vehicle should not be in the state of Nevada for more than 15 days.
Each state has its own specific laws and regulations regarding the registration and operation of ATVs and UTVs. Therefore, even if your vehicle is registered as street-legal in another state, it does not exempt you from Nevada’s laws and restrictions. Always check with your local motor vehicle licensing office for accurate information on the regulations relating to the use of ATVs and UTVS in public roads under their jurisdiction. Click here to view ATV & UTV laws in other states.
5. How can I make my ATV (or UTV) street legal in Nevada?
Generally speaking, you cannot make your ATV or UTV street legal in Nevada as the state’s legal code does not allow for this. However, if your ATV or UTV is registered as street-legal in another state, then you may operate your vehicle in Nevada because the state of Nevada honors Registration Reciprocity, provided that the vehicle will not be operated in the state for more than 15 days.
However, if you would like the opportunity to be able to register your ATV or UTV as street-legal and ride it on public roads and highways in states that will allow it, we have partnered with Dirtlegal.com. These guys can help get your ATV or UTV to register as street-legal in most states by registering it in another state that does allow street legal UTVs and ATVs, via “registration reciprocity” between the states.
Get STREET LEGAL with DirtLegal.com
Conclusion:
In Nevada, ATVs and UTVs are not eligible for street-legal registration and, generally, operating them on public roads is prohibited. There are a few exemptions to this, however, where you may be able to operate them on public roads. In addition to that, cities and counties are allowed to create ordinances that will allow designated portions of public roads for ATV and UTV use.
While this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the street-legal laws on ATVs and UTVs in this state, it is important that you consult your local motor vehicle licensing office for more specific and accurate information regarding ATV and UTV regulations. Because state laws can change over time and regulations differ between jurisdictions, the information presented here may not provide the most up-to-date or region-specific details.
Remember that street legality is determined by state and local laws, and it is your responsibility as an ATV or UTV owner to ensure that you are operating your vehicle within the legal boundaries while also getting the most fun out of it.
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