New York Bike Laws: What You Need to Know

Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements

In New York, dirt bikes are classified as All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) when used off-road and must be registered with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), except under specific exemptions.

• Registration Process:

   

  • All ATVs, including off-road motorcycles, must be registered with the DMV unless they are used exclusively for agricultural purposes or not-for-hire snow removal on private property.

     

  • If purchased from a New York State ATV dealer, the dealer is required to register the ATV before delivery.

     

  • If purchased from a private individual, the buyer must register the ATV themselves.

     

  • The annual registration fee is $12.50, with an additional $12.50 fee for the license plate upon initial registration.

     

  • Registrations expire annually on August 31.

     

• Required Equipment:

   

  • Brakes in good condition.

     

  • A muffler that meets federal standards.

     

  • A U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrester.

     

  • Tires with at least 2/32nds of an inch tread without visible damage.

     

  • A lighted white headlight and red taillight if operated at night.

     

• Operational Restrictions:

   

  • ATVs may not be operated on public land unless specifically designated for ATV use and indicated by posted signs.

     

  • Operation on private land requires the landowner’s permission.

Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal

Converting a dirt bike for street use in New York is challenging due to strict regulations. However, it is possible by meeting specific equipment and registration requirements.

1. Eligibility:

    

   • The dirt bike must have a title that does not restrict it to off-road use only.

      

   • Some riders have explored registering their dirt bikes in other states, such as Vermont or Montana, to obtain a transferable title before registering in New York.

      

2. Required Equipment:

    

   • DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.

      

   • Taillight with brake light function.

      

   • Front and rear turn signals.

      

   • Rearview mirrors on both sides.

      

   • Horn audible from at least 200 feet.

      

   • DOT-approved tires.

      

   • Muffler to comply with noise regulations.

      

   • Spark arrester approved by the U.S. Forest Service.

      

3. Inspection and Documentation:

    

   • Obtain a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection.

      

   • Provide proof of ownership, such as a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) or a notarized bill of sale.

      

   • Submit the completed Application for Certificate of Title and other required documents to the New York DMV.

      

4. Registration:

    

   • Register the dirt bike with the New York DMV and obtain a license plate.

      

   • Pay the applicable registration fees, which range between $200 and $300.

      

5. Insurance:

    

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