Making a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) street legal in Wyoming involves adhering to specific state statutes and regulations. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the necessary steps, equipment requirements, and legal references to ensure compliance.
- Vehicle Classification in Wyoming
In Wyoming, UTVs intended for on-road use are classified as Multipurpose Vehicles (MPVs). According to Wyoming Statute § 31-1-101(a)(xv)(M), an MPV is defined as a motor vehicle that:
- Is designed to travel on at least four wheels in contact with the ground.
- Has an unladen weight of at least 300 pounds but less than 3,000 pounds.
- Has a permanent upright seat or saddle for the driver which is mounted at least 24 inches from the ground.
- Has an identifying number as defined by W.S. 31-1-101(a)(ix).
This classification allows certain off-road vehicles, including UTVs, to be registered for on-road use if they meet specific criteria.
- Required Equipment for Street Legality
To operate a UTV on public roads in Wyoming legally, the vehicle must be equipped with the following:
- Headlamps: At least two, with one on each side of the front.
- Tail Lamps: At least one mounted on the rear.
- Stop Lamps: At least one on the rear.
- Reflectors: At least one red reflector on each side at the rear.
- Turn Signal Lamps: Front and rear.
- Brakes: Both a service brake and a parking brake.
- Windshield: Or, if none, the operator and passengers must wear eye protection.
- Horn: Audible from at least 200 feet.
- Muffler: In constant operation and meeting state noise regulations.
- Rearview Mirror: At least one.
- Seat Belts: For each occupant.
These requirements are outlined in Wyoming Statute § 31-5-124 and must be met for the vehicle to be considered street legal.
- Registration and Titling Process
To register and title a UTV as an MPV in Wyoming, follow these steps:
- Title Application: Submit a completed Wyoming Title Application to the local County Clerk’s office.
- Proof of Ownership: Provide the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) or a properly assigned title.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Inspection: Required for out-of-state titles; this can be performed by law enforcement or designated officials.
- Payment of Fees: Fees vary by county and include title fees, registration fees, and any applicable taxes.
Detailed information on the titling process can be found on the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s website.
- Insurance Requirements
In Wyoming, any vehicle driven on public roads—including UTVs registered as Multipurpose Vehicles (MPVs)—must be covered by a liability insurance policy that meets or exceeds the state’s minimum requirements. This is enforced under Wyoming Statutes § 31-9-401 through § 31-9-414, which cover the state’s Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act.
The minimum liability coverage limits in Wyoming are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person in an accident
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more people in an accident
- $20,000 for property damage per accident
These are commonly referred to as 25/50/20 coverage.
When insuring a UTV for street use:
- Make sure your insurance provider knows the UTV is titled and registered as a road-use Multipurpose Vehicle
- Request a policy specifically written to cover both on-road and off-road usage, if applicable
- Keep your proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times when operating on public roads
- Be prepared to show proof of insurance if stopped by law enforcement or during the titling process
Some insurance companies may be unfamiliar with issuing policies for UTVs being used on-road, so it’s important to clarify the MPV registration status and provide the VIN and classification.
If your UTV is financed, your lender may also require comprehensive and collision coverage in addition to the state minimum liability limits.
Driving without valid insurance in Wyoming can result in:
- Fines up to $750
- Suspension of your vehicle registration and/or driver’s license
- Court-ordered SR-22 insurance for up to three years
- Potential impoundment of the vehicle
To avoid issues, it’s best to verify coverage before applying for on-road registration, and double-check that your policy remains active and compliant throughout the life of the registration.
- Operational Restrictions
While an MPV designation allows for on-road use, there are restrictions:
- Highways: Operation on interstate highways is prohibited.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities may have additional regulations or prohibitions regarding UTV use on public roads.
Operators should consult local laws to ensure compliance with area-specific regulations.
- Additional Considerations
- Age Requirements: Operators must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Off-Road Permits: For operation on designated trails and public lands, an Off-Road Recreational Vehicle (ORV) permit is required. This permit is separate from on-road registration and is administered by the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources.
By meeting these equipment standards and following the registration process, your UTV can be legally operated on designated public roads in Wyoming. Always stay informed about local laws and regulations, as they can vary by jurisdiction.
Relevant Wyoming Codes for Street-Legal UTVs
- Vehicle Classification
- W.S. § 31-1-101(a)(xv)(M)
Defines a Multipurpose Vehicle (MPV) as a motor vehicle designed to travel on at least four wheels, weighing between 300–3,000 lbs, and having a seat at least 24 inches from the ground. This is the classification UTVs fall under when registered for on-road use.
- Equipment Requirements
- W.S. § 31-5-124
Requires all vehicles operated on public roads to be in safe mechanical condition and properly equipped. Though not UTV-specific, this includes essential safety features such as lights, brakes, mirrors, windshield or eye protection, muffler, horn, and seat belts. - W.S. § 31-5-910 through § 31-5-960
These sections cover specific lighting and reflector requirements for headlamps, tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors for motor vehicles. - W.S. § 31-5-955
Addresses horn requirements — must be audible from at least 200 feet. - W.S. § 31-5-952
Requires working windshield wipers (if a windshield is present), or operators must wear eye protection if none is installed.
- Registration and Titling
- W.S. § 31-2-101 through § 31-2-502
Covers titling and registration procedures for all vehicles, including Multipurpose Vehicles. Includes submitting proof of ownership, VIN inspection (if out-of-state), paying applicable fees, and applying through your local County Clerk’s office. - W.S. § 31-2-104
Specifies requirements for out-of-state vehicles being titled and registered in Wyoming. - W.S. § 31-2-201(a)
Details exemptions from titling, including certain off-road vehicles that are not being registered for street use.
- Insurance Requirements
- W.S. § 31-9-401 through § 31-9-414
This is the Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act, which requires liability insurance for any vehicle operated on public roads in Wyoming.
- Off-Road Operation (Optional but Relevant)
W.S. § 31-2-703 through § 31-2-707
These sections outline Wyoming’s Off-Road Recreational Vehicle Program, which is separate from street registration and includes trail permits and regulations for using UTVs on public lands.
