North Carolina Dirt Bike Laws: What You Need to Know

Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements

In North Carolina, dirt bikes used exclusively off-road are not required to be registered or titled. However, riders must adhere to specific safety regulations:

• Helmet and Eye Protection: All riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection.

   

   

• Age Restrictions: Riders under 16 must be supervised by an adult and are subject to engine size limitations: NC Regulations
  • Under 8: Prohibited from operating ATVs.

     

     

  • Ages 8–11: Up to 70cc.

     

     

  • Ages 12–15: 70cc to 90cc.

     

     

  • 16 and older: Over 90cc.

     

     

• Operation on Public Roads: Operating dirt bikes on public streets, roads, or highways is prohibited, except for crossing at a 90-degree angle where permitted.

   

   

• Lighting Requirements: If operating during low-light conditions, the dirt bike must be equipped with a functioning headlamp and taillamp. North Carolina Laws

Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal

To operate a dirt bike on public roads in North Carolina, it must be converted to meet street-legal requirements:

Conversion Steps:

1. Equipment Installation: Ensure the bike is equipped with:

    

   • DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.

      

      

   • Taillight with brake light function.

      

      

   • Turn signals (front and rear).

      

      

   • Rearview mirrors (one on each side).

      

      

   • Horn audible from at least 200 feet.

      

      

   • Speedometer and odometer.

      

      

   • DOT-approved tires.

      

      

    

2. Title and Registration: Obtain a title and register the bike with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). If the bike lacks a title, the process may involve additional steps, such as a bonded title application.

    

    

3. Inspection: Have the bike inspected by a licensed inspection station to ensure it meets all safety and emissions standards.

    

    

4. Insurance: Secure liability insurance for the bike.

    

    

5. License Plate: Affix a valid 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.

On-Road:

• Permitted Roads: Street-legal dirt bikes can operate on public roads, excluding interstate highways and limited-access highways.U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
  

   

   

• 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.