Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements
In North Dakota, off-road motorcycles (including dirt bikes) are subject to certain rules even if not used on public roads.
- Registration:
- Dirt bikes used exclusively off-road must be registered as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) through the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
- OHVs must display an OHV registration decal.
- Dirt bikes used exclusively off-road must be registered as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) through the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
- Helmet and Safety Gear:
- Riders under 18 years old are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Eye protection is required unless the vehicle is equipped with a windscreen.
- Riders under 18 years old are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Age Restrictions:
- Under 6 years old: Cannot operate an OHV.
- Ages 6–11: Can operate a 70cc or smaller OHV on private property with supervision.
- Ages 12–15: Must complete an approved safety course and may only operate OHVs up to 90cc, unless under supervision.
- Ages 16+: Can operate full-size OHVs with no displacement restriction if other requirements are met.
- Under 6 years old: Cannot operate an OHV.
- Where You Can Ride (Off-Road):
- Private Property: Permitted with landowner’s consent.
- Public Trails: Allowed only in designated OHV trail systems or on lands managed by agencies that permit off-road use.
- Private Property: Permitted with landowner’s consent.
Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal
Dirt bikes can be converted to street-legal status in North Dakota, but they must meet all equipment and registration standards.
Conversion Requirements:
- Required Equipment:
- DOT-approved headlight (with high/low beam)
- Tail/brake light
- Turn signals (front and rear)
- Rearview mirror(s)
- Horn (audible at 200 feet)
- Speedometer
- DOT-approved tires
- Muffler with spark arrestor
- DOT-approved headlight (with high/low beam)
- Registration & Title:
- Title must reflect the bike is not restricted to “off-road use only.” If it is, a special inspection may be required.
- Apply for title and license plate through the NDDOT.
- Title must reflect the bike is not restricted to “off-road use only.” If it is, a special inspection may be required.
- Insurance:
- Liability insurance is mandatory for all street-legal vehicles.
- Liability insurance is mandatory for all street-legal vehicles.
- Inspection:
- A safety inspection may be required depending on whether the bike was previously titled for off-road use only.
Where You Can Ride
- Street-Legal Bikes:
- May be operated on public roads, including highways (except interstates).
- Must obey all standard traffic laws.
- May be operated on public roads, including highways (except interstates).
- Non-Street-Legal Bikes:
- May only be ridden on OHV trails, private land with permission, and certain county roads that allow OHVs.
Rider Requirements
- License:
- A valid driver’s license or instruction permit is required for operating street-legal motorcycles.
- A motorcycle endorsement is required for dirt bikes converted for road use.
- A valid driver’s license or instruction permit is required for operating street-legal motorcycles.
- Helmet Use:
- Required for all riders under 18 years of age. Strongly recommended for all.
- Required for all riders under 18 years of age. Strongly recommended for all.
- Insurance:
- Mandatory for street-legal operation.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fines: Operating an unregistered or improperly equipped vehicle on public roads can result in citations.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Unauthorized on-road use can lead to your dirt bike being towed or impounded.
- License Points: Violations may affect your driving record and insurance rates.
Relevant North Dakota Laws and Agencies
- North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT): Vehicle registration, titles, and licensing.
- North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department: OHV trails, permits, and safety courses.
- North Dakota Century Code Chapter 39-29: Covers the rules and regulations for Off-Highway Vehicles and dirt bikes.
