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Two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on a public road with slow-moving vehicle signs and the message "No one's a good unsafe rider," with "unsafe" styled like a speedometer.

ATV/UTV Safety:
Know the Law. Ride Responsibly.

In 2022, Iowa passed a law making it legal to drive all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) on roadways. Since then, their popularity has increased. But so have ATV- and UTV-related fatalities.

Learn how to keep safe so you can still have fun riding your ATV/UTV while protecting yourself and others.

How To Drive on Public Roads

  • Do not exceed 35 MPH
  • Driver must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license
  • Do not drive while impaired or with open alcohol containers
  • Headlights must be on at all times

What is Required for the Vehicle?

  • Display slow-moving vehicle sign at all times
  • Functioning required equipment including but not limited to: horn, mirrors, headlights, tail lights, brake lights.
  • Registered with Iowa DNR and sticker is displayed on rear of vehicle
  • Proof of insurance
  • Out-of-state vehicle must have an Iowa DNR nonresident user permit sticker

When and Where You Can Ride

  • Operation allowed day or night
  • Roadway use allowed (except interstates and four-lane roads)
  • Use state two-lane or county highways only on most direct, accessible route to: an ATV/UTV park or trail, nearest county road, authorized city street, or your residence
  • Crossing multi-lane highways allowed only at intersections from authorized roads

Safety Tips:

  • Use a safety belt or harness if available
  • Drive sober
  • Wear a helmet

Barn icon representing agricultural use.

Exemptions for ATV/UTV ag use on public roads:

  • Vehicles used for ag purposes or as implements of husbandry do not need to be registered with the DNR.
  • No license is needed if you’re within 2 miles of farm.
  • Class C license required only if you’re over 2 miles away from farm.
  • Operation is only allowed during daylight hours.

What’s the difference between an ATV and UTV?

Illustration of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

ATV

  • Has handlebars
  • Carries 1-2 riders
  • Uses a straddle seat
  • Has 3-6 wheels
Illustration of a utility task vehicle (UTV).

UTV

  • Has a steering wheel
  • Room for 2-6 riders
  • Uses a bench or bucket seats
  • Has 4-6 wheels

FAQs

Speed must not exceed 35 MPH for all ATVs and UTVs.

Yes. Iowa law treats ATVs and UTVs as motor vehicles. Always drive sober and don’t carry any open containers.

In Iowa, helmets are not required for riders 18 and older. However, wearing a DOT-certified helmet is highly recommended for your safety.

Take Action Now: Raise Awareness with Traffic Safety Grants

Help make Iowa’s roads safer! The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau provides grants to support funding opportunities for state, county, and local government agencies; non-profit organizations; institutions of higher education; and hospitals.
Together, we can reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries on our roads.

Apply for a Traffic Safety Grant Today!