Michigan Bike Laws: What You Need to Know
Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements
In Michigan, dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles (ORVs) must be registered with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to operate on public lands and designated trails.
- Registration: All ORVs used on public lands must have a valid ORV license ($26.25 annually), and a trail permit ($10) is required to ride on designated ORV trails and scramble areas.
- Private Property: No registration is required if the dirt bike is operated exclusively on private property with the landowner’s permission.
- Title: Titles are required for all ORVs registered after 2004.
- Helmet and Eye Protection: Operators and passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet when riding. Eye protection is highly recommended.
- Age Restrictions:
- Under 10: Not permitted to operate an ORV on public lands.
- Ages 10–15: May operate under direct supervision of a parent or guardian and must complete an ORV safety certificate.
- 16 and older: May operate without supervision but recommended to have safety training.
Operation on Public Roads
Operating dirt bikes on public roads or highways is generally prohibited except for crossing at a 90-degree angle where permitted.
Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal
To legally ride a dirt bike on Michigan public roads, it must be converted to meet street-legal requirements:
Conversion Steps:
- Equipment Installation:
- DOT-approved headlight (high and low beam)
- Taillight with brake light function
- Front and rear turn signals
- Rearview mirrors (one on each side)
- Horn audible from 200 feet
- Speedometer and odometer
- DOT-approved tires
- Muffler/spark arrestor compliant with noise standards
- Title and Registration: Register the bike with the Michigan Secretary of State as an “Assembled Vehicle” and obtain a title.
- Inspection: Complete a vehicle inspection (TR-54 form) by law enforcement or authorized inspection station.
- Insurance: Liability insurance is required.
- License Plate: Affix a valid Michigan license plate.
Where You Can Ride
Off-Road:
- Private Property: Riding is allowed with permission from the landowner.
- Public Lands: Permitted on state-designated ORV trails, routes, and scramble areas.
- Frozen Lakes: Riding on frozen lakes is allowed with an ORV license.
On-Road:
- Street-legal dirt bikes can be ridden on public roads, excluding highways and limited-access roads.
- Dirt bikes may cross public roads at 90-degree angles after stopping and yielding.
Rider Requirements
- License: A valid driver’s license is required for street-legal dirt bike operation on public roads.
- Helmet Use: Operators and passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Safety Certificate: Riders under 16 must have completed an ORV safety education course to operate on public land.
- Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory for street-legal dirt bikes.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fines: Monetary penalties for unregistered or improperly equipped vehicles.
- Impoundment: Vehicles may be impounded if operated illegally.
- License Suspension: Operating without a valid license or insurance can lead to license suspension.
Relevant Michigan Laws and Agencies
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Manages ORV registrations, licenses, and public riding areas.
Website: michigan.gov/dnr - Michigan Secretary of State: Handles vehicle titling, registration, and licensing.
Website: michigan.gov/sos - Michigan Vehicle Code, Act 300 of 1949: Governs motor vehicle regulations, including ORVs.
Relevant Alabama Laws and Agencies
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA): Handles vehicle titling, registration, and licensing.
- Alabama Department of Revenue: Oversees vehicle registration and taxation.
- Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: Manages public lands and designated OHV trails.
