Texas ATV & OHV Registration 2026 - Fees & Trail Permits | WildNotch.com
ATV Registration

Texas ATV & OHV
Registration 2026

Everything you need to register an ATV, UTV, or off-highway vehicle in Texas — official agency links, fees, trail permit requirements, and safety regulations. Texas requires an OHV decal for all ATVs and UTVs operated on public lands, state parks, and ORV parks. Private land riding does not require a state decal. Texas has no dedicated groomed OHV trail system but offers access through state parks and TPWD-managed areas.

Annual Registration Period Helmet Required
2026 OHV Registration Quick Facts Verified 2026
ATV Fee
$12.00
annual registration
UTV / SxS Fee
$12.00
annual registration
Trail Permit?
Not Required
Min. Age
14 yrs
Helmet required
Registration Fees

Texas OHV Registration Fees & Requirements

All OHVs operated on public lands in Texas must display a current registration. Fees vary by vehicle type.

ATV / Quad
$12.00
Annual registration fee for standard ATVs and quads.
UTV / Side-by-Side
$12.00
Annual registration fee for UTVs and side-by-sides.
Dirt Bike / MX
$12.00
Annual registration fee for dirt bikes and motocross bikes.
Registration Period
Annual
No title required.
Safety Rules

Texas OHV Safety Requirements

Texas has specific safety requirements for OHV operators. Know the rules before you ride.

Requirement Details
Minimum Age 14 years old
Helmet Required Required — riders under Under 21 must wear a helmet
Safety Course Voluntary (recommended for all new riders)
Title Required No
Insurance Required Not Required
Trail Access

Texas OHV Trails & Public Land Access

Texas does not require a separate trail permit — OHV registration alone grants access to designated public land riding areas.

Popular Riding Areas

Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area, Curry Creek OHV Park, Rocky Hill Ranch OHV, Dirt Road Adventures, Texas ORV Park.

Public Land Access

State Parks Private OHV Parks
Important Notes

Texas-Specific OHV Rules

All riders under 21 must wear an approved safety helmet. Children under 14 may not operate an ATV on public lands. The OHV decal must be affixed to the front of the vehicle and be visible.
Street Legal: ATVs may only be operated on public roads in specific counties and municipalities that allow it. Operators must be at least 16 years old.
Data last verified: January 1, 2025
Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov). Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and requirements directly with the agency before registering.