Everything you need to register an ATV, UTV, or off-highway vehicle in California - official agency links, fees, trail permit requirements, and safety regulations.
California's OHV program uses a color-coded sticker system (Green/Red) based on emissions standards. All OHVs operated on public land require a current OHV registration from California State Parks. The program funds the largest network of OHV parks in the country.
Annual (July 1 – June 30) Registration Period
Trail Permit Required
Helmet Required
2026 OHV Registration Quick Facts
Verified 2026
ATV Fee
$52.00
annual registration
UTV / SxS Fee
$52.00
annual registration
Trail Permit?
Required
$52.00 permit fee
Min. Age
7 yrs
Helmet required
Registration Fees
California OHV Registration Fees & Requirements
All OHVs operated on public lands in California must display a current registration. Fees vary by vehicle type.
ATV / Quad
$52.00
Annual registration fee for standard ATVs and quads.
UTV / Side-by-Side
$52.00
Annual registration fee for UTVs and side-by-sides.
Dirt Bike / MX
$52.00
Annual registration fee for dirt bikes and motocross bikes.
Registration Period
Annual (July 1 – June 30)
No title required.
Safety Rules
California OHV Safety Requirements
California has specific safety requirements for OHV operators. Know the rules before you ride.
Requirement
Details
Minimum Age
7 years old
Helmet Required
Required
Safety Course
Voluntary (recommended for all new riders)
Title Required
No
Insurance Required
Not Required
Trail Access
California OHV Trails & Public Land Access
Trail Permit Required
A separate trail permit is required to ride on managed OHV trail systems in California.
Cost: $52.00.
The OHV registration (Green Sticker or Red Sticker) IS the trail access permit for California State OHV Areas.
5,000+ miles of OHV-designated trails in California
Hungry Valley SVRA, Glamis/Imperial Sand Dunes, Carnegie SVRA, Hollister Hills SVRA, Prairie City SVRA, Jawbone Canyon OHV Area.
Public Land Access
State OHV Parks
BLM
National Forest
Important Notes
California-Specific OHV Rules
Green Sticker OHVs (meet current emissions) can ride year-round. Red Sticker OHVs (older/higher emissions) are restricted from riding in certain counties during summer months. Helmets required for ALL riders on public land.
Street Legal: OHVs with Green Stickers may not be operated on public streets. Some UTVs can be street-legal if registered through DMV.
Noise Limits: 96 dB sound limit; Red Sticker machines face seasonal riding restrictions in SJV air basin.