Midwest Rider
TRAVEL WISCONSIN
More to Explore watva.org All-terrain vehicle and utility terrain vehicle riding is a growing sport in Wisconsin. Along with the privilege of enjoying the sport comes the responsibility of making sure you are operating these vehicles safely and responsibly. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails and areas in Wisconsin. DNR Conservation Wardens recommend all ATV and UTV operators complete a safety course.
Definition of All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Wisconsin law defines an all-terrain vehicle as a commercially designed and manufactured motor-driven device which has a net weight of 900 pounds or less, was originally manufactured with a width of 50 inches or less, equipped with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and which is designed by the manufacturer to travel on three or more tires. This includes small or child-sized ATVs. Certain ATVs that do not currently fit the ATV definition may be registered as UTVs.
Definition of Utility-Terrain Vehicle (UTV)
Wisconsin law defines a utility-terrain vehicle as a commercially designed and manufactured motor-driven device that is designed to be used primarily off highway, and originally manufactured and equipped with all of the following: a weight, without fluids, of 2,000 pounds or less; four or more tires; steering wheel; tail light; brake light; two headlights; width of not more than 65 inches; seat belts; and roll bar or similar device designed to reduce the likelihood that an occupant would be crushed as the result of a rollover. This includes small or child-sized UTVs. Vehicles that do not qualify as an ATV as 12 Midwest Rider 2021
defined but are commercially designed and manufactured, motor driven devices that contain three or more tires, a weight without fluids of 2000 pounds or less, a width of 65 inches or less and a seat designed to be straddled by the operator may also be registered as a UTV.
Display of Decals and Rear Registration Plate
ATVs and UTVs registered with the DNR are issued two decals. The decals must be displayed on both sides of the machine by its own adhesive, in a position which is forward of the operator and visible to law enforcement. Until decals are received by mail, operators must carry the temporary operating receipt issued for the machine. Operators should carry all necessary registration cards and paperwork with them for display to a law enforcement officer upon request. In addition, all ATVs and UTVs registered as public use will be required to furnish a rear plate that displays the registration number. Plates can be created or purchased. Plate specifications: • The plate must be a minimum of 4” in height and 7 1/2” wide and made of white material. • The registration number must be made of black lettering a minimum of 1 1/2” high with a minimum 3/16” stroke. • Only the four registration numbers and two letters need to be on the plate. The registration number can be found on both the decals and the registration card. • The owner must maintain the plate so it is in legible condition; and the plate shall be attached to the rear of the vehicle.
