ATV Registration
Michigan ATV & OHV
Registration 2026
Everything you need to register an ATV, UTV, or off-highway vehicle in Michigan - official agency links, fees, trail permit requirements, and safety regulations. Michigan operates one of the Midwest's largest ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) trail systems with thousands of miles of marked trails in state forests and recreation areas. All ORVs must display a current Michigan ORV license.
Annual Registration Period
Helmet Required
2026 OHV Registration Quick Facts
Verified 2026
ATV Fee
$26.25
annual registration
UTV / SxS Fee
$26.25
annual registration
Trail Permit?
Not Required
Min. Age
12 yrs
Helmet required
Registration Fees
Michigan OHV Registration Fees & Requirements
All OHVs operated on public lands in Michigan must display a current registration. Fees vary by vehicle type.
ATV / Quad
$26.25
Annual registration fee for standard ATVs and quads.
UTV / Side-by-Side
$26.25
Annual registration fee for UTVs and side-by-sides.
Dirt Bike / MX
$26.25
Annual registration fee for dirt bikes and motocross bikes.
Registration Period
Annual
No title required.
Safety Rules
Michigan OHV Safety Requirements
Michigan has specific safety requirements for OHV operators. Know the rules before you ride.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 12 years old |
| Helmet Required | Required |
| Safety Course | Voluntary (recommended for all new riders) |
| Title Required | No |
| Insurance Required | Not Required |
Trail Access
Michigan OHV Trails & Public Land Access
Michigan does not require a separate trail permit - OHV registration alone grants access to designated public land riding areas.
The state has approximately 4,000 miles of OHV-designated trails.
Popular Riding Areas
Newaygo State Forest, Ogemaw State Forest, Au Sable State Forest, Pigeon River Country, Bitely ORV Area, Croton Township ORV Trail.
Public Land Access
Important Notes
Michigan-Specific OHV Rules
ALL riders on Michigan ORV trails must wear an approved safety helmet — this includes adults with no age restriction. ORV license required for all riders regardless of age.
Street Legal: ORVs may cross public roads at marked crossings and may be operated on certain low-volume county roads in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Noise Limits: 94 dB sound limit for Michigan ORV areas.
Data last verified: January 1, 2025
Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources (www.michigan.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and requirements directly with the agency before registering.