Nevada Bike Laws: What You Need to Know

Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements

In Nevada, dirt bikes are classified as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) when used off-road. To operate on public lands, your OHV must be registered.

• Registration Process:

   

  • All OHVs over 70cc and manufactured in 1976 or later must be registered and display a registration decal to operate legally in Nevada.

     

  • Registration applications are accepted and decals are issued by mail only.

     

  • The annual registration fee is $20.

     

  • A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection must be completed by a licensed Nevada OHV dealer or a sworn law enforcement officer.

     

  • If the OHV was purchased on or after July 1, 2012, a certificate of title is required.

• Titling Requirements:

   

  • Owners of OHVs purchased on or after July 1, 2012, are required to obtain a certificate of title.

     

  • Proof of ownership must be provided through an ownership document or affidavit.

Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal

Converting a dirt bike for street use in Nevada is possible by meeting specific equipment and registration requirements.

1. Eligibility:

    

   • The dirt bike must be a two-wheeled motorcycle not originally equipped or certified for use on public roads.

      

   • The bike must have a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebar-type steering control.

      

   • The bike must not be an all-terrain vehicle, dune buggy, snowmobile, trimobile, moped, electric bicycle, pocket bike, side-by-side, utility vehicle, or grey market vehicle.

      

2. Required Equipment:

    

   • DOT-approved headlight (does not need to be high/low beam).

      

   • Taillight with brake light function.

      

   • Front and rear turn signals.

      

   • Rearview mirrors on both the left and right sides of the handlebars with a diameter of 3 inches.

      

   • Horn audible from at least 200 feet.

      

   • Rear reflector.

      

   • DOT-approved tires.

      

   • Muffler to comply with noise regulations.

      

3. Inspection and Documentation:

    

   • Complete Form VP-254, available from the Nevada DMV.

      

   • Have the dirt bike inspected by a Nevada licensed motorcycle dealer or registered motorcycle repair shop qualified to certify that the converted off-highway two-wheeled motorcycle is mechanically safe to operate on public roads.

      

   • The dealer or repair shop will complete Part I of Form VP-254 upon successful inspection.

      

4. Registration:

    

   • Submit the completed Form VP-254, proof of ownership, and any other required documents to the Nevada DMV to obtain a certificate of title and registration for street use.

      

5. Insurance:

    

   • Secure liability insurance for the dirt bike as required for all street-legal vehicles in Nevada.

Where You Can Ride

Off-Road:

• Private Property: Riding is permitted with the landowner’s consent.

   

• Public Lands: Riding is allowed on designated trails and areas where OHV use is permitted. Ensure your OHV is registered and displays the appropriate decal.

   

On-Road:

• Permitted Roads: Operation of dirt bikes on public roads is allowed only if the bike has been converted to meet street-legal requirements and is properly registered and insured.

   

• Local Ordinances: Some cities, like Mesquite, allow OHVs to operate on public streets, roads, or highways if they comply with operator and equipment requirements.