A Reference Guide for ROHV, UTV, ATV, and Motorized Bicycles
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has issued this reference guide to help explain Missouri laws pertaining to recreational off-highway vehicles, utility vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, and motorized bicycles. If you own or operate any of these type of vehicles, please make safety a priority.
Message to Parents
While there is no age requirement for driving an ATV or motorized bicycle, this does not mean a child of any age can safely operate one. It is the responsibility of the parents to make sure their children are prepared mentally and physically to drive an ATV or motorized bicycle. The Patrol strongly urges parents to have their children attend a certified safety course.
Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROHV)
Definition: Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use which is more than 50 inches, but no more than 80 inches in width, with an unladen dry weight of 3,500 pounds or less, traveling on four or more nonhighway tires.
• Can be operated on the highway if owned and operated by a government entity for official use
• The operator must have a valid driver license when operated on a highway
• Can only be operated within three miles of the operator's primary residence
• Can only be operated within city limits if the city authorizes its operation
• Must display a lighted headlamp and tail lamp while on a highway
• Operator must wear a seatbelt while operating on a highway
• Must be equipped with a roll bar or roll cage while on a highway
• License plates and insurance are not required
• Cannot be operated while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Utility Vehicle (UTV)
Definition: Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use which is more than 50 inches, but no more than 80 inches in width, with an unladen dry weight of 3,500 pounds or less, to be used primarily for landscaping, lawn care, or maintenance purposes.
• Can be operated on the highway if owned and operated by a governmental entity for official use
• Driver must possess a valid driver license to operate on the highway
• Can be operated on the highway for agricultural or industrial purposes between sunrise and sunset
• Cities and counties may issue special permits to operate on highways
• Cannot be operated at speeds greater than 45 miles per hour
• Cannot be operated while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Definition: Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use, with an unladen dry weight of 1,500 pounds or less, traveling on three or more low-pressure tires, with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator, and with handlebars for steering control.
• Same highway use restrictions as ROHVs
• Cannot be operated while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Passengers not allowed unless designed by the manufacturer for more than one rider
Contact
Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: (573) 751-3313
Website: www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov
Emergency: 1-800-525-5555 or cellular *55