The Handbook of Michigan Off-Road Vehicle Laws
Table of Contents

Off-Road Basics

Before You Ride

• Know Your Off-Road Vehicle (ORV)
• Common ATV Parts
• Protective Gear
• Dress for the Weather
• Pre-Ride Inspection
• Additional Gear

Riding Your ORV

• Basic Operation
• Riding Techniques
• Riding on Different Types of Terrain

Youth on Wheels

• Note to Parents
• Choose an Appropriate ORV
• Your Role

For All Riders

• Be Prepared
• What to Bring Along
• Operate Safely and Responsibly
• Trail Etiquette

It's the Law

Before You Ride

• Licensing and Titling Your Vehicle
• Where to License ORVs
• Display of License

Required Equipment

• For Operators and Passengers
• For Off-Road Vehicles

Young ORV Operators

• Operator Age Restrictions
• ORV Safety Education

Land Use Rules

• ORV Land Use Rules and Definitions
• ORV Operation on State-Owned Lands
• ORV Operation on National Forest Lands
• ORV Operation on Other Lands
• Summary of ORV Operation on Various Land Types (PDF Format)

Riding Your ORV

• Why Michigan Has ORV Laws
• Accidents
• Penalties
• Alcohol
• Sound Emission Regulations
• ORV Operation Regulations
• Persons with Disabilities

Additional Information

• Tread Lightly
• Michigan’s ORV Trails
• Forest Certification Program
• ORV Trail Signs
• Michigan DNR Information and Law Enforcement Division District Offices