How to Make an ATV or UTV Street Legal?
Are you prepared to transition your machine from off-road trails to city streets? Before making the switch, there are a few important considerations. Achieving street legality for your ATV or UTV involves more than just the necessary upgrades and accessories. Have you considered aspects such as mirrors, insurance, or registration?
TURN SIGNAL KIT
Equipping your ATV or UTV with a turn signal kit is essential for making it street legal. With numerous options available, choosing the right kit can be a challenge. Many companies provide both universal turn signal kits and model-specific options, giving you a range of choices to suit your vehicle.
Whenever you're installing aftermarket accessories on your ATV or UTV that involve wiring, it's crucial to acquire your vehicle's wiring diagram and comprehend how the new components might impact your battery usage. While minor upgrades are generally straightforward, having a good understanding of your vehicle's wiring system is essential.
Numerous aftermarket kits are designed to be 'plug and play,' eliminating the need for dealing with intricate wire connectors. Simply plug them in, and you're all set to go!
Additionally, it's important to check the contents of your turn signal kit before purchasing. No one wants to prepare for installation only to discover they need to buy extra wiring harnesses or parts midway through the process.
WINDSHIELD
In certain cities or states, having a windshield on your ATV or UTV is mandatory for it to be deemed ‘road legal’. This safeguard not only shields the driver and passengers from various hazards while navigating high-speed traffic but also significantly enhances the comfort inside the cab by blocking cold air, rain, and debris.
Important Reminder: Prior to making a purchase, ensure to review your local regulations to determine the specific windshield requirements in your area. Certain places mandate a full windshield, while others offer more flexibility in your choice.
MIRRORS
Maintaining a clear line of sight is crucial, whether you're on the highway in your car or driving an ATV or UTV. Just like with larger vehicles, when you're behind the wheel of an ATV or UTV, having a 360-degree vision is essential. Achieving this level of visibility is possible through the use of mirrors.
To make your ATV or UTV road legal, it's typically necessary to install a rear-view mirror and a set of side-view mirrors. These mirrors are available in various styles and materials, such as plastic and billet aluminum. When purchasing rear-view mirrors, it's essential to consider the tube size specific to your model, as this measurement varies between different machines.
Plastic mirrors provide a budget-friendly option compared to their pricier aluminum counterparts. However, if you engage in rigorous off-road activities, investing in a sturdier alternative might be worthwhile. Intense trail riding often results in more frequent damage to plastic aftermarket parts.
OTHER MODIFICATIONS
Besides turn signals, a windshield, and mirrors, there are additional modifications you might need to consider for making your ATV or UTV street legal.
Lastly, let's cover Non-Electrical Upgrades:
- Seat belts
- Rear reflector
- License plate carrier
- Mud flaps