All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a popular choice for off-road adventures, farm work, and recreational riding across Tennessee’s diverse landscapes. However, many riders wonder: are ATVs street legal in Tennessee?
The short answer is no, ATVs are not street legal in Tennessee by default. But there are exceptions where you can legally drive them on public roads. This guide will explain Tennessee ATV laws, exceptions, safety requirements, and tips to avoid fines or legal trouble.
What Is an ATV?
Before diving into state laws, let’s define an ATV:
- ATV stands for All-Terrain Vehicle.
- It is designed for off-road use with four wheels, handlebars for steering, and a straddle seat.
- Popular brands include Polaris Sportsman, Honda FourTrax, Yamaha Grizzly, and Can-Am Outlander.
Are ATVs Street Legal in Tennessee?
The Short Answer:
No. Under Tennessee law, ATVs are classified as off-highway vehicles (OHVs) and are not street legal on public roads or highways. They are designed for off-road trails, private property, and agricultural use only.
However, there are limited exceptions under specific conditions.
Tennessee ATV Laws: Key Points
According to Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) § 55-8-101 and § 55-8-185, ATVs are generally prohibited on public streets and highways except:
- When crossing the road at a 90-degree angle
- On roads designated for off-highway vehicle use by local authorities
- For specific agricultural or utility purposes under certain conditions
Exceptions: When Can You Drive an ATV on Public Roads in Tennessee?
✅ 1. Crossing Roads
ATVs may cross public roads legally if:
- The crossing is made at a 90-degree angle to the roadway.
- The vehicle comes to a complete stop before crossing.
- The driver yields to all oncoming traffic.
- The crossing is made at a place where the vehicle can safely enter and exit the road.
✅ 2. Designated ATV Trails and Roads
Some counties or towns in Tennessee have designated certain roads as ATV-friendly routes, particularly in areas promoting ATV tourism.
For example:
- Brimstone Recreation Area (Huntsville, TN) allows ATVs on designated town streets with proper permits.
- Windrock Park (Oliver Springs, TN) connects to specific county roads where ATVs are permitted under local ordinances.
Always check with local authorities for up-to-date maps and route approvals before riding.
✅ 3. Agricultural or Utility Use
Farmers and utility workers may operate ATVs on public roads only when crossing from one tract of land to another or when performing tasks related to their work, but general riding remains prohibited.
Can You Make an ATV Street Legal in Tennessee?
The Honest Answer:
Tennessee does not have a process to register an ATV as a street legal vehicle like a car or motorcycle. Unlike some states that allow ATV conversions under modified vehicle laws, Tennessee prohibits titling or licensing ATVs for full road use.
However, if you own a side-by-side (UTV) that qualifies as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) and it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), you can register it for street use under LSV regulations. ATVs, by design, do not qualify for LSV registration.
Safety Requirements for Riding on Designated Roads
If you plan to ride your ATV on a designated public road in Tennessee, you must:
✅ Wear a helmet (required for riders under 18; recommended for all ages)
✅ Have a valid driver’s license
✅ Display an OHV permit or local ATV permit, where required
✅ Operate at posted speed limits and obey traffic laws
Registration and Title Requirements
In Tennessee:
- ATVs do not require registration or titles for off-road use.
- They cannot be titled as street-legal vehicles.
However, for financing or proof of ownership, dealerships may process Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) paperwork, which is not the same as a title for street use.
Penalties for Riding an ATV on Unauthorized Roads
Operating an ATV on public roads without legal approval can result in:
- Fines and citations
- Vehicle impoundment
- Court fees and towing costs
- Liability issues in case of accidents
Repeated violations may lead to higher fines and permanent loss of riding privileges in certain areas.
Where Can You Legally Ride ATVs in Tennessee?
Tennessee offers a variety of legal riding areas, including:
✅ Brimstone Recreation Area
- Over 300 miles of ATV trails
- Requires a riding permit
- Connects to ATV-friendly town roads with permits
✅ Windrock Park
- Largest private OHV park in the US (73,000 acres)
- Trails for all levels of ATV riders
✅ Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area
- Public OHV trails requiring TWRA OHV permits
Always carry proof of permit and follow park rules to avoid fines.
Tips for Safe and Legal ATV Riding in Tennessee
✅ Always check local laws: County and town rules may differ from state laws.
✅ Wear protective gear: Helmets, gloves, boots, and goggles.
✅ Carry permits and ID: Rangers and deputies can request proof of permit and age.
✅ Respect private property: Never ride on private land without permission.
✅ Stay off unauthorized public roads: Even rural roads require proper legal approval.
Alternatives: Street-Legal Options for ATV Riders
If you want an off-road style vehicle for road use, consider:
✅ Buying a street-legal UTV or LSV
- Some side-by-side vehicles are manufactured with DOT-approved equipment, seat belts, and speed limits (under 25 mph) for LSV classification.
✅ Motorcycles or Dual Sport Bikes
- Dual sport motorcycles are street legal and off-road capable, providing similar versatility with full DMV registration.
Final Verdict: Are ATVs Street Legal in Tennessee?
So, are ATVs street legal in Tennessee? The answer is:
❌ No, ATVs are not street legal on public roads or highways by default.
✅ Limited exceptions apply, including:
- Crossing roads at 90-degree angles
- Riding on designated ATV-friendly roads in approved towns
- Agricultural or utility work-related short-distance use
Before riding, always check local ordinances, obtain permits, and ensure compliance with safety rules. Riding responsibly protects you from fines, accidents, and legal issues while enjoying Tennessee’s beautiful landscapes.