Owners of side-by-sides know how much fun and adventure they can bring to everyday living. These robust utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) are a blast to ride on weekends—but they’re so much more than merely recreational. In fact, they’re often used for work purposes since they offer plentiful storage space and room to seat someone on the passenger side. They can also haul materials to areas where standard trucks may not be practical. However, even with the right UTV accessories in place, when is a side-by-side vehicle actually legal to ride on the street? Here’s a closer look.

Are Side-by-Sides Street Legal?

Most states in the U.S. permit the use of side-by-sides if they meet certain conditions for driving on public roads. However, they're strictly prohibited in Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, and Virginia. 

In the states where side-by-sides are permitted, several important guidelines apply. For example, in Missouri, UTVs are not usually permitted to ride on public streets unless a local ordinance grants the driver permission. Exceptions also exist for side-by-sides that are government-owned, along with those that are driven for agricultural usage between sunrise and sunset. The person must also have a valid driver’s license and obey the recommended speed limit.

Some states do permit UTV use on public roads, but special circumstances apply, such as only driving on two-lane highways when required for agricultural use or on a two-lane highway when needed for snow removal. Sometimes, states designate certain municipal streets for use by UTVs. Others may provide special permits for use on controlled-access highways. Additionally, in certain states, usage is strictly prohibited on any public road, including those made of gravel, unless a special exception is permitted by a local agency. 

Given the many disparities between state rules regarding usage of side-by-sides on public roads, it’s important to learn what your own state’s guidelines are if you plan to take your UTV out. You must generally meet specified requirements by implementing certain UTV accessories to make the vehicle street legal.

What Are the Legal Requirements for UTV Accessories?

Lights are an essential part of making a side-by-side street legal. Headlights boost visibility on roadways. Running lights, which refer to the combination of taillights and brake lights at the rear of the vehicle, must also be installed. For safety, street-legal side-by-sides need to be equipped with turn signals, blinker lights, and a flasher. These lights are often packaged in sets for easy installation. 

The tires on the UTV must also be approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re safe for street use. UTVs are regularly exposed to outdoor debris while in motion, including twigs, gravel, dirt, and rocks. Since this detritus can affect your ability to see when you’re driving down the road, you’ll need to add a windshield to the side-by-side to make it road-safe and legal. Wearing goggles for protection is highly recommended, too. 

The majority of side-by-sides aren’t equipped with mirrors, but you’ll need to install a rearview mirror and either a driver’s side mirror or a pair of side-view mirrors. Reflectors are also vital to ensuring other vehicles on the road can quickly and easily spot you. While many UTVs are equipped with reflectors somewhere on either the rear or their frame, you can also purchase this important UTV accessory and affix it to any part of the vehicle.

Additionally, it's necessary to make sure your side-by-side has a mount for the license plate. After you’ve registered the vehicle for street use, you’ll need to mount the plate to the back of the UTV. A light must be attached above it to ensure the plate is properly illuminated when you’re on the road.  

Finally, be sure your side-by-side is insured so that you’re covered for any possible liabilities that may occur as you drive. A valid driver’s license is required in most states, and in some states, you may even need to pass an emissions test before you can take the UTV out on the road. Once you’ve met all the regulations and are confident that your side-by-side is ready for the street, you can relax and enjoy the ride.

If you seek high-quality UTV accessories for your side-by-side, turn to the experts at Offroad Armor. They carry an extensive selection of essential items for UTVs nationwide. You’ll find everything you need to ensure the vehicle is street legal and safe for daily and recreational use. Visit the website for more information or call the Lake St. Louis, MO, office at (580) 633-7633 to speak with a team member.