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Rules and regulations

  • handbook of Michigan ORV laws

    ORV regulations handbook

    A comprehensive handbook defining ORV laws and regulations, age requirements, safety information, vehicle operation, riding instructions and more.

    ORV Handbook

Two youth in ORV riding gear

Age requirements and safety certificate

Learn the age requirements for operating an ORV and who needs an ORV safety certificate.

An ORV trail sign on a post

Signage

View common ORV signs that you may encounter on trails or other riding areas, and learn what they mean.

  • A group of ORV riders on an ORV trail

    Group rides

    Groups whose activities meet certain criteria need to fill out an event use permit application. Find out if your group ride/event requires a land use permit.

  • A person on a snowbike

    Modified ORVs

    If a motorized vehicle is originally manufactured as an ORV it is prohibited from riding designated snowmobile trails (i.e. snowbikes).

  • A Jeep at an ORV scramble area with an orange flag

    Street-licensed ORVs

    Learn when and where an ORV license/trail permit are required for street-license vehicles (i.e. truck or Jeep). 

  • A group of ORV riders get ready at Silver Lake ORV Area

    Silver Lake ORV area

    There are special rules and regulations for riding your ORV at Silver Lake ORV area. Learn the requirements before you go!

  • A six-wheeled Argo ORV in foreground with trees in background

    Argo use on state land

    An Argo (a six-wheel or side-by-side) is regulated as an ORV and can ride most places ORVs can ride except for ORV trails.