The state rules
ride with you.

Registration and the non-resident permit

Every Utah OHV must display a current registration sticker when it is operated or transported on public lands or roads, and registrations expire each year on the last day of the month the machine was bought.

Non-residents who bring an ATV, UTV, off-highway motorcycle or snowmobile into Utah need a non-resident OHV permit to ride on public land. It costs $35, lasts 12 months from purchase and is sold online. The state emails a temporary permit right away and processes the permanent one within 20 business days.

Sources: Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: registration and permits, Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: non-resident permits. Checked September 10, 2026.

Education certificates

Since January 1, 2023, Utah has required every OHV operator 18 or older to complete the free Utah Off-Highway Vehicle Education Course, and it tells visitors from other states to take it as well. A printable temporary certificate is valid for 60 days.

Riders under 18 need a safety certificate issued or approved by the state. Utah lists the youth course at $35, or an approved in-person skills course and exam. Snowmobile operators, farm use, guided tours and sanctioned OHV events are listed exemptions.

Source: Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: OHV education FAQs. Checked September 10, 2026.

Young riders

Utah allows riders under 18 to operate an OHV on public land when they can reach and operate each control needed to ride safely, hold a valid education certificate and ride under the direct supervision of someone at least 18 years old.

Sources: Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: OHV education FAQs, Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: OHV laws. Checked September 10, 2026.

Helmets and flags

• Helmets are mandatory on public land for riders under 18, and the state strongly recommends them for everyone
• A red or orange whip flag must be attached to OHVs riding in sand dune areas. Agencies set local details, so check the destination's rules page

Source: Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: OHV laws. Checked September 10, 2026.

Equipment and conduct

• Mufflers with an approved spark arrestor on every OHV except snowmobiles
• Lights on between sunset and sunrise
• No riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Source: Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: OHV laws. Checked September 10, 2026.

Then add the local rules

Each managing agency layers its own fees, closures, camping limits and quiet hours on top of state law. Read the rules page for the dunes you are visiting: Little Sahara, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and the guides for Sand Hollow, Knolls and White Wash.