Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements
In Georgia, dirt bikes used exclusively off-road are not required to be registered. However, as of December 1, 2023, owners of certain off-road vehicles, known as Multipurpose Off-Highway Vehicles (MPOHVs), may voluntarily register their vehicles to operate on county roads. It’s important to note that traditional dirt bikes do not qualify as MPOHVs and therefore are not eligible for this registration.
Helmet and Eye Protection:
- Under 18: Riders under 18 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating a motorcycle.
- All Riders: Eye protection is recommended for all riders, regardless of age.
Age Restrictions:
- Under 16: Individuals under 16 years of age are prohibited from operating a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle on public roads in Georgia.
Operation on Public Roads:
- Operating dirt bikes on public streets, roads, or highways is prohibited unless the bike has been modified to meet street-legal requirements and is properly registered and insured.
Lighting Requirements:
- If operating during low-light conditions, the dirt bike must be equipped with a functioning headlamp and taillamp.
Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal
To operate a dirt bike on public roads in Georgia, it must be converted to meet street-legal requirements:
Conversion Steps:
- Required Equipment:
- DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.
- Taillight with brake light function.
- Rear reflector.
- Turn signals (front and rear).
- Rearview mirrors (one on each side).
- Horn audible from at least 200 feet.
- Speedometer and odometer.
- DOT-approved tires.
- Muffler to comply with noise regulations.
- Chain guard.
- DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.
- Title and Registration:
- Obtain a title from the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR).
- Register the bike with the Georgia DOR.
- Submit the necessary forms and documentation to the Georgia DOR.
- Obtain a title from the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR).
- Inspection:
- Have the bike inspected by a licensed inspection station to ensure it meets all safety and emissions standards.
- Insurance:
- Secure liability insurance for the bike.
- Secure liability insurance for the bike.
- License Plate:
- Affix a valid Georgia license plate to the bike in a visible and unobstructed manner.
Where You Can Ride
Off-Road:
- Private Property: Riding on private property is permitted with the landowner’s consent.
- Public Lands: Riding on public lands is allowed only in designated areas and trails. Georgia has several OHV trails and parks where off-road riding is permitted.
On-Road:
- Permitted Roads: Street-legal dirt bikes can operate on public roads, excluding interstate highways and limited-access highways.
Crossing Roads: Off-road dirt bikes may cross public roads at a 90-degree angle during daylight hours, provided they come to a complete stop and yield to oncoming traffic.
Rider Requirements
- License: A valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement is required to operate a street-legal dirt bike on public roads.
- Helmet Use: Riders under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet; helmet use is recommended for all riders.
- Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory for all street-legal vehicles in Georgia, including dirt bikes.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to adhere to Georgia’s dirt bike laws can result in:
- Fines: Monetary penalties for unregistered or improperly equipped vehicles.
- Impoundment: Unauthorized vehicles may be impounded by law enforcement.
- License Suspension: Operating without a valid license or insurance can lead to suspension of driving privileges.
Relevant Georgia Laws and Agencies
- Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR): Handles vehicle titling, registration, and licensing.
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Manages public lands and designated OHV trails.
- Georgia Code Title 40: Outlines motor vehicle laws, including those pertaining to dirt bikes and off-road vehicles.
Start your street-legal process today with Dirt Legal.
