Minnesota DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Regulations
People enjoy using recreational motor vehicles (all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and off-road vehicles) for trail-riding, off-road transportation, competition and other activities. Your attitude toward your surroundings and your behavior as a rider affect the attitudes of other outdoor users, landowners and lawmakers. Ride responsibly!
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/ohv/index.html
ATV/UTV Riding In Wisconsin
All-terrain vehicle and utility terrain vehicle riding is a growing sport in Wisconsin. Along with the privilege of enjoying the sport comes the responsibility of making sure you are operating these vehicles safely and responsibly. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV(and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails and areas in Wisconsin. DNR Conservation Wardens recommend all ATV and UTV operators complete a safety course.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/atvMinnesota OHV Licenses, Permits, and Regulations
OHVs used in Minnesota must be registered with the DNR or the operator must possess a trail pass if operating on state and grant-in-aid trails. Fees collected from registrations and trail passes go directly into the OHV accounts to support new trails, OHV safety and education and management and maintenance of existing trails.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/ohv/index.htmlATV/UTV Think Smart Before You Start
One of the most common violations observed by law enforcement officers during the campaign was improper helmet and no helmet for riders and passengers under the age of 18. Everyone should wear a helmet whether required by law or not. Remember to Wear it, Wisconsin!
- All ATV/UTV operators and passengers under the age of 18 are required to wear a minimum DOT standard ATV or motorcycle helmet with the chin strap properly fastened.
- Bicycle helmets do not meet this requirement.
- All UTV passengers must have their seatbelts always fastened.
One of the best things ATV and UTV operators can do to operate safely is to take an online safety course. A list of approved safety education classes is available on the DNR Safety Education webpage.
Wisconsin law requires every operator involved in a crash incident to report the incident without delay to law enforcement officials. In addition, within 10 days of the incident, the operator must submit a written report to the DNR.
For more information on ATV and UTV recreation in Wisconsin, visit the DNR’s ATV/UTV riding in Wisconsin webpage.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/61966
A Minnesota OHV Trail Atlas Will Help Clarify Riding in a Minnesota State Forest
Minnesota state forests have been classified into three categories for off‑highway vehicle and motor vehicle use: Managed, Limited, and Closed. For more information about these classifications and individual forest information, please visit: mndnr gov/state_forests.
Most state forests are made up of a combination of state, county, federally, and privately owned lands, but are not signed or identified as such in the field.
• County and federal lands have their own rules for use
• You must have the landowner’s permission to enter privately owned land, and trespass laws apply
• Many grant‑in‑aid trails (identified by signs) cross private lands and are closed to other uses
• Tribal lands in state forests are always closed to non‑band members
Minnesota Off-highway Vehicle Terminology and Definitions
The Minnesota DNR’s OHV Definitions resource breaks down the key vehicle types riders need to understand before hitting the trail, including ATVs, off-highway motorcycles (OHMs), and off-road vehicles (ORVs). By clearly defining what qualifies as each vehicle—based on factors like size, weight, design, and intended use—this guide helps riders choose the right equipment, follow the correct regulations, and ride responsibly. Understanding these distinctions is essential for staying legal, selecting appropriate trails, and promoting safer riding practices across Minnesota’s off-highway system.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ohv/ohv-definitions.html
Minnesota OHV Trail Locations
The Minnesota DNR’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Map resource gives riders a powerful, interactive way to explore where they can legally and safely ride across the state. This tool breaks Minnesota into three key riding regions—Southern & Central, Northeastern, and Northwestern—making it easy to visualize trail systems, forest access, and designated riding areas. With dozens of state and grant-in-aid trails available and varying land classifications (managed, limited, or closed), the map helps riders plan ahead, understand access rules, and make informed decisions before hitting the trail.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ohv/map.html
