Steve HoldenIf you own or plan on operating an ATV in Indiana, it’s important you know the laws and regulations that govern its registration and use. Failure to comply with state laws can result in hefty fines, your ATV being impounded, or in some circumstances jail time.
Depending where you search, many different opinions pop up about the ATV laws in Indiana and it’s hard to discern fact from fiction. I’ve heard countless stories from friends who knew a guy who’s cousin once got ticketed for “enter crazy reason here”. More often than not, these stories are based on an element of truth which has been bent or exaggerated as its passed between people.
We make it easier. Below you’ll find the Indiana ATV Laws which every owner and operator should be aware of. These are pulled directly from Indiana Codes and Statutes, so you know you are getting the answer directly from the source. In most cases, we have crossed referenced these laws with local lawyers and officers to ensure their accuracy.
These rules should get you started on the right (and legal) path but we always suggest you check with the local authorities before operating an ATV. Most states have provisions which allow cities and counties to set their own ATV regulations. Not only can they help you operate it legally, but also safely.
Indiana ATV Ownership and Registration
The following laws govern how ATV ownership and transfer must be documented with the state of Indiana, as well as whether it will require registration before it may be used. These laws are often similar to what you would expect when purchasing a new automobile, but there are a few differences to make note of. Failure to comply with these regulations will typically result in fines but can potentially lead to your ATV being impounded if there are multiple offenses.
Do I Have to Title my ATV in Indiana?
Yes – § 9-17-1-0.5 – Indiana law requires ATVs purchased on or after January 1, 2010 to be titled with the state.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Indiana if I use it on Private Property?
Yes – § 9-18.1-14-1 – All ATVs purchased after 12/31/2003 must be registered with the state, even when used solely on private property. See public property below for more information.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Indiana if I use it on Public Property?
Yes – § 9-18.1-14-1 – All ATVs purchased after 12/31/2003 must be registered with the state if operated on state property. The registration fee is $30 for 3 years and must be transferred to new owners upon sale. Two registration decals will be delivered to the owner which must be displaced on both front fenders, and the certificate of registration must be held on the person operating the ATV.
Indiana ATV Operation
The following laws establish how an a ATV may be legally operated within the state of Indiana, on both private and public/state owned property. While ATVs do have 4 wheels, they are designed for off-road use and typically do not meet federal safety guidelines. As such, the state created laws to limit their use and protect the public from accidents. Failure to abide by these laws will typically result in costlier fines and potentially jail time depending on the offense.
What is the Minimum Age to Operate an ATV in Indiana?
NA – § 14-16-1-20 – Indiana law allows ATVs to be operated by a person of any age while on private property owned or controlled by their parent or guardian. All other usage require riders 14 years or younger must be supervised by an adult 18 years or older. If an ATV is operated on a public road, the operator must have a valid driver’s license.
Can I Drive my ATV on Public Roads in Indiana?
No – § 14-16-1-20 – Generally, it is illegal to operate an ATV on public roads in Indiana.State law however does allow ATVs to operated on the right of way next to any roadway (other than limited use highways) when there is sufficient space to do so safely. ATVs may also cross roadways but only at a 90 degree angle and after yielding to all oncoming traffic. State law allows counties and cities to make their own laws related to ATV usage so its important you check with your local government body before riding.
Required Equipment in Indiana
The following items are required by Indiana law to be installed upon an ATV or worn by an operator during use. If on-road use is permitted by local authorities, then ATVs must be in compliance with all requirements set forth by the Federal Safety Administration.
| Helmet | Required if operated by a rider under the age of 18 years old. |
| Headlight(s) | Required if operated between sunset and sunrise. |
| Tail Light | Required if operated between sunset and sunrise. |
| Muffler | Required. |
| Spark Arrestor | Not Required. |
| Brakes | Required and must slow the vehicle by 14 feet per second when driven on flat pavement from an initial speed of 20 mph. |
| Other |
Indiana ATV Rules of the Road
- Reckless Operation – No person shall operate an ATV in a manner as to endangers any property or person.
- Private Property – It is illegal to operate an ATV on private property without the permission of the land owner.
- Excessive Speed – No person shall operate an ATV at a speed which is too fast for conditions.
- Slide, Ski, Skating Areas – ATVs may not be operated within 100 feet of slides, and skiing/skating areas.
- Disturbing the Peace – No person shall operate an ATV in a manner as to endanger the life, limb or property of any person within 100 feet of a home between 12am and 6am, except at the minimum speed required to continue forward movement. This does not include private property in which you have been granted permission.
- Railroad Tracks – ATVs may not be operated on railroad tracks.
- Cemetery – It is illegal to operate an ATV on or across a cemetery or burial ground.
- Nursery or Public Land – ATVs may not be operated where growing plants or animals may be damaged.
- Rivers, Streams and Creeks – ATVs may not be operated in flowing water except to cross by the shortest possible route.
- Loaded Firearms and Bows – ATV operators may not carry a bow with an arrow nocked, or a firearm unless it is unloaded and securely encased or has a trigger lock.
- DUI/DWI – It is illegal in every state to operate a motor vehicle on public roads or property while under the influence of alcohol. Most states also employ a zero tolerance approach to ATVs and more strict penalties for excessive blood alcohol concentrations (BAC).