Buying an ATV feels like opening up an entire new world of adventure. Whether you’re hitting the trails, working your land, or just exploring the outdoors, there’s a lot of excitement in getting your own four-wheeler. But once you start looking into the paperwork, you might just want to ask: how to get a title for an ATV? The answer depends. Some states say yes, some say no; it becomes more complicated with an old vehicle or when you want to ride it on the road. This guide explains everything you should know so that you can enjoy your ATV without worrying too much about the law.
Do ATVs Have Titles: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?
Let us brush up on some basics. If you have never owned an ATV before, this section will give you a simple definition of what a title is and its importance.
What Is An ATV Title?
A title is a legal document proving ownership of the ATV. Title contains the name of the owner; it contains information about the make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN). The title is obtained from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles at the time the vehicle is registered for the first time. Generally, once the title is obtained, it shall follow the vehicle until either a change of ownership is effected.
A Title Versus Registration and Bill of Sale
They may sound a bit alike, yet are different. Title denotes ownership; registration proves your ATV is recognised or recorded with the state for legal operation, especially on public lands. A bill of sale is simply a receipt that states the vehicle was bought or sold.
Knowing the gist of these differences can actually save you from some early problems at a later date in cases of insuring or reselling.
Why Title Truly Matters
Even if it is not required in your state, it is your security. Title assists in proving ownership, adds value in the case of a resale, and gives insurance against theft or in case of disputes. Some insurance companies may even be unwilling to give you coverage unless they see their name on the title.
Subtitle Requirements by State: Where You Need One, and Where You Might Not
If you have an ATV, but you are still not sure whether it needs a title in your respective State, it is wise to learn about what the laws in different States have in common concerning ATV title laws. Many different States regard ATV titling differently; while a few hold titling for the ATV mandatory irrespective of the applied intention, quite some others take the view that it is not a serious matter.
States Requiring ATV Title
Many States have enacted laws prescribing strict regulations on whether or not the use of such vehicles is off the public trails or private land. Typically, New York, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and many others usually require a title for records of ownership, to establish a course of action in theft, and for future sales.
Here are some important links for your convenience:
New York DMV – ATV Title Requirements
California DMV – Off-Highway Vehicles
Pennsylvania DCNR – ATV Registration & Titling
Ohio BMV – Off-Road Vehicle Information
Texas Parks & Wildlife – ATV Regulations
States That Do Not Require ATV Titles
Other states seem a little less strict, especially if they are mainly rural or agricultural, where ATVs are primarily used as work vehicles. For example, South Dakota, Alabama, Montana, etc., may not require a title but may often require registration and/or trail permit or proof of ownership to be used in public.
Here are some important links for your convenience:
South Dakota Department of Revenue – ATV Information
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – ATV Guidelines
Montana DOJ – Title & Registration
What If You Move?
Indeed, a state with tougher title laws sometimes complicates things. For you see, if you are applying title to an ATV that was never titled:
- You might want to submit a bill of sale
- The state may require a VIN inspection
- Some states will ask you to apply for a bonded title, which means that a surety bond is taken to show ownership in cases where nothing else is standardly available.
How to Apply for ATV Title
While it differs by state, the general process is usually as follows:
- Pick up Application for Title: available online through DMV for your state.
- Attach Supporting Documents: Bill of Sale, Previous registration, or proof of ownership.
- VIN Inspection: commonly required if the ATV has never been titled or is from out of state.
- Fees: The fees for title application usually run $15–$50, depending on the state.
- Processing time is usually anywhere from 2–6 weeks, but may take longer in some cases for bonded titles.
For specifics on forms, fee schedules, and processing times, check the respective DMV or DNR Sites for your state.
Specific changes in the Regulation or Provisions of Policies in 2025
In several states, new Title and Registration laws for ATVs have been designed to improve proof of ownership and extend rights of access on roadways for specified circumstances. Such changes include tighter VIN inspection requirements, some jurisdictions require registration proof of insurance, and possible digital file title applications. ATVs on public streets without titles now incur a heftier fine in California and New York, which broadened equipment requirements compliance. These changes indicate a general shift towards an increased concern about safety, traceability, and preventive measures against theft and misuse regarding ATVs.
Is Registration Not Compulsory?
If you are going to ride your ATV down streets or into town, you’ll need a title for sure. The DMV wants to see something that proves you own the vehicle legally. No proof means no registration of the ATV, which holds true for any other state allowing ATVs to access certain roads.
Is It Possible to Obtain an ATV Title?
If so, how can one obtain it? Most likely, one will have to approach their state in such a way and it may not be that simple. Not one except proof of ownership—the title.
Equipment You Should Readily Have
Several states have specific safety standards that must be met before an ATV can be allowed on the roads. This usually involves having headlights, a brake light, mirrors on either side of the vehicle, turn signals, and a working speedometer. Each of these may differ among different states, and thus it is best to contact your local DMV and confirm what is needed of you.
Once you have the title with you, and the complete equipment, you’re safely on your way—the title being just one step. Other applications, inspections, or fees may require satisfying.
For up-to-date forms and obstetrical advice, visit your nearest DMV or resource management agency. Just let me know if you need to be linked with the appropriate agency in the states.
Buying and Selling an ATV Without a Title
Buying and selling used ATVs easily doesn’t always fall under that generalisation. Some titles get lost. So, here is what people need to know.
What You Should Know Before Buying Without a Title
Purchase of an ATV without a title may be risky, but it is not necessarily bad news for such a purchase. The reason is that the seller doesn’t have it. Maybe it’s old and never titled. Maybe lost it. Either way, you should still get a bill of sale and check the VIN. Anything suspicious may send you to walk away from it.
Is a Title Obtainable Later?
If you’ve got a lost ATV title, most states allow you to apply for a replacement through the DMV by submitting a form, proof of ownership, and a small fee. Many states will actually let you apply for a replacement title, usually consecutively with VIN inspection and filling out a bonded title application. Most likely, a bill of sale needs to be shown; you may be asked to procure a surety bond. Getting it takes time, but it is certainly worth mentioning as a consideration in owning it.
Selling an ATV Without a Title
If you are the seller, then just be honest with the customer. Inform him if it does not have a title because it was lost, never issued, or unavailable. Provide a well-articulated bill of sale and describe what they must do if they would like to apply for a new title. That takes trust, and for sure, it will keep you legally covered as well.
Title vs. Registration: They Are Not the Same
People usually confuse the title and registration. Title and registration usually go together, but it is not always so.
What Off-Road Riders Need
If you mostly ride on private land or state-sanctioned trails, you still may need to register your ATV with the Parks and Wildlife Department at the local level. This helps fund trail maintenance and ensures that your vehicle is allowed on public land. You’ll probably need to sticker or another tag after registering with them.
Extra Steps for Street Riders
Going on public roads with your ATV will mean it’s a bit more than that, plus you’ll need title, registration, insurance, and proof of safety requirement compliance. Registration must usually be done every year, with some inspections involved in certain states.
Most Common Scenarios and What You Should Do
An ATV or quad may not have an absolutely correct title. Let us discuss some of the common problems and solutions for them.
I Bought an ATV from a Friend. What’s Next?
If your friend did not give you a title, look for your state laws about such situations. You may be able to obtain one based on a bill of sale and VIN inspection. For the DMV, carry as much documentation as you can the much evidence to show that this was a real transaction.
I Ride My ATV on Private Land. Do I Need a Title?
Probably not, depending on your state. But having a title even when not required protects you. It assigns you ownership rights and proves you can get insurance for it or resell it in the future. It’s a small step, but a long-lasting piece of mind.
Can I Drive an Untitled ATV on the Road?
Almost never would be the answer to that one. In most states, where limited ATV usage on roads is allowed, there would have to be title and registration first. Without those, you risk getting cited or having your vehicle impounded. First, get the title, then go from there.
Handling Complicated Situations
Here we are stating some common complicated situations and their solutions so that you can avoid any inconvenience:
Inherited ATV with No Title
In the case of an inherited ATV with no title, the will or other probate documents linking an owner to the deceased must be provided. The DMV, depending on its findings, could require a VIN inspection and issue a bonded title to the owner.
ATV Purchased Outside the State
The original title is always required for importing an ATV from another state. If the original title is not available, a notarised bill of sale evidencing the sale, along with the description of the VIN, is usually accepted. Afterwards, it would need a VIN inspection and proceed with an out-of-state title transfer. Additionally, verify any state-specific emissions or equipment requirements.
VIN Missing or Defaced
In case the ATV has a barely legible VIN or misses VIN altogether, a complaint will be lodged with local law enforcement as the first alternative. Then, they will fill in a verification report for the VIN. The second alternative will be making an application at the DMV for the issuance of a replacement VIN/assigned VIN for the ATV. Proof of ownership will need to be established, and in some instances, a bonded title may also be needed to finalise the process.
ATV Title Requirements by Use Case
ATV title laws aren’t one-size-fits-all. They can actually change based on how you plan to use your ATV. Whether you’re riding for fun, working on your land, or hoping to make your ATV street-legal, the paperwork you’ll need can vary.
If you’re only using the ATV on private property, your state might not require a title at all. But once you take it off your land, like to public trails or state parks, you may need both a title and registration. For street use, having a title is mandatory in nearly every case, along with additional safety equipment and legal registration. Understanding your use case helps you avoid surprises later.
Last Word
Getting a title for your ATV may feel like a chore to some, but down the road, it is worth it. It becomes proof of ownership, insurance, and registration for the ATV and provides protection from future resale or other legal problems. It is a nice little gift in states that do not require it, just to avoid any unnecessary problems. So while buying, registering, or transferring an ATV, ask all about the title. A trivial step with meaning.
BSEMotors Off-Road Power Motors
At BSEmotors, we are committed to releasing world-class ATVs suited for every type of user-from a weekend trail rider to someone who needs dependability for work around the ranch. In our lineup is an array of ATVs, both for youths and adults, all fitted with reliable 4-stroke engines, making them tailored for mud, sand, trails, or heavy-duty utility use.
Browse our offering online or visit any BSEmotors dealers around you. Inquire about ATV range now and become a member of a great, growing community of off-road adventure-performance confidence adventurers.
EN 
FR 
DE 
AR 
RU 
ES 
PT 
CN