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

Wisconsin ATV & OHV
Registration 2026

Everything you need to register an ATV, UTV, or off-highway vehicle in Wisconsin — official agency links, fees, trail permit requirements, and safety regulations. Wisconsin requires ATV/UTV registration through the DNR. The state has extensive ATV trail networks in the northern forests, with thousands of miles of signed trails connecting communities. Wisconsin is one of the premier ATV states in the Midwest.

Annual Registration Period Helmet Required
2026 OHV Registration Quick Facts Verified 2026
ATV Fee
$30.00
annual registration
UTV / SxS Fee
$30.00
annual registration
Trail Permit?
Not Required
Min. Age
12 yrs
Helmet required
Registration Fees

Wisconsin OHV Registration Fees & Requirements

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

ATV / Quad
$30.00
Annual registration fee for standard ATVs and quads.
UTV / Side-by-Side
$30.00
Annual registration fee for UTVs and side-by-sides.
Registration Period
Annual
No title required.
Safety Rules

Wisconsin OHV Safety Requirements

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

Requirement Details
Minimum Age 12 years old
Helmet Required Required — riders under Under 18 must wear a helmet
Safety Course Voluntary (recommended for all new riders)
Title Required No
Insurance Required Not Required
Trail Access

Wisconsin OHV Trails & Public Land Access

Wisconsin does not require a separate trail permit — OHV registration alone grants access to designated public land riding areas. The state has approximately 10,000 miles of OHV-designated trails.

Popular Riding Areas

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest ATV trails, Marinette County trail network, Florence County trails, Iron County trail system, Vilas County ATV trails.

Public Land Access

State Forest National Forest County Forest Private Land (cooperating)
Important Notes

Wisconsin-Specific OHV Rules

Wisconsin is exceptional for ATV riding with county forest networks and cross-county trail connections. Helmet required for riders under 18. UTVs have expanded significantly in the WI trail network.
Street Legal: Wisconsin allows ATVs and UTVs on designated roadways. UTVs may use paved roads in many counties with proper equipment.
Noise Limits: 96 dB sound limit.
Data last verified: January 1, 2025
Source: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (dnr.wi.gov). Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and requirements directly with the agency before registering.