111. (a) "All-terrain vehicle” means a motor vehicle subject to subdivision (a) of Section 38010 that is all of the following: (1) Designed for operation off of the highway by an operator with no more than one passenger. (2) Fifty inches or less in width.
This law, known as Senate Bill S2702, became effective in February 2024. The law also raised the minimum age for supervisors of young riders on public lands from 16 to 18. Now, any ATV operator under 16 must be under the supervision of someone over 18, who must also possess an ATV safety certificate.
To register an ATV, you must provide proof of who you are. You must provide proof of identity, date of birth, and at least six points of proof of name. For the most recent listing of acceptable documents see Proofs of Identity For Registration and Title (PDF) (ID-82).
A vehicle designed and manufactured for off-highway use may not be operated on a California highway even though it may be highway legal in its home state because it does not meet the federal highway safety standards for highway vehicles.
OHVs such as all-terrain vehicles, trail bikes, racing motorcycles, dune buggies, and snowmobiles do not require regular vehicle registration, but they must display an ID plate or placard issued by DMV. To register your OHV, you will need: An Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) form.
Ready? Have with you: A completed Vehicle Registration / Title Application (MV-82) Proof you own the vehicle. Proof of your identity and age. Proof you have NY automobile liability insurance. Payment for fees and taxes, or proof of payment or exemption.
Motorcycles, off-highway vehicles, and diesel-powered vehicles cannot be converted to California emissions standards at this time. Therefore, they cannot be registered in California unless they were originally manufactured to meet U.S. and California emissions standards.
For those not familiar with an 'exempt” license plate, these are plates that are displayed on the back of government owned vehicles. What this exempts them from is paying taxes and registration. It does not give them the right to violate traffic laws.
To register your OHV, you will need: An Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) form. Proof of ownership, such as: The manufacturer's certificate or statement of origin. An original or certified copy of the factory invoice to the non-California licensed dealer.