Do You Need a License for a Dirt Bike?

Whether you’re gearing up for off-road fun yourself or planning to buy a beginner dirt bike for your kids, always follow local riding laws. That way, your family can enjoy outdoor excursions worry-free. One question that’s worth investigating is whether you need a license for a dirt bike in your area.

Do You Need a License for a Dirt Bike for Off-Roading?

The United States doesn’t have any national-level laws for dirt bike riders. In most of the country, you don’t need a license to use a dirt bike for off-roading.

That said, the specifics depend on the state where you live. Some places do have training and certification requirements for dirt bike riders. Other states require dirt bikes to be registered, but riders don’t need a license.

Which States Require a License for a Dirt Bike?

The laws around off-road recreation vary widely by state, and local regulations can change. For this reason, it’s smart to check if there are any updated laws for dirt bikes in your region.

California

In California, riders need a motorcycle license for a dirt bike, even for off-road use. Teens between the ages of 14 and 17 can ride without a license, but they must have a motorcycle safety training certificate or adult supervision.

Utah

In Utah, drivers of dirt bikes, motorcycles and motor scooters need a driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. These guidelines apply to public lands and highways alike.

Washington

You need a license for a dirt bike in Washington if you want to ride on public lands, such as trails and state park areas. Any riders under 16 have to carry a motorcycle safety certificate from the state’s Department of Licensing.

Arizona

The state of Arizona also requires dirt bike owners to have a motorcycle endorsement or a driver’s license before riding on any public land. As for teens without a driver’s license, they need to follow an AZDOT-approved motorcycle safety course before taking a dirt bike off-road.

Texas

If you want to take your kids riding in Texas, they need to take a motorcycle operator training program first. There are several courses available that are approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Adults must have either a driver’s license or a class M motorcycle license to use a dirt bike on public lands.

Do You Need a Motorcycle License for a Dirt Bike on Private Property?

In the majority of areas, you don’t need a license for a dirt bike on your land. That’s why many families who live in the country have a blast riding dirt bikes and four-wheelers in ditches and on homemade dirt tracks. Many states also have exceptions for racing dirt bikes on private courses as part of competition events.

Where Do You Need a License for a Dirt Bike?

To ride a dual-sport dirt bike on the road in any state, you need a motorcycle endorsement and a driver’s license. You also have to choose your dirt bike carefully to make sure it adheres to state specs.

Whether you need a license for a dirt bike depends on your riding plans. At Motobuys, we carry recreational vehicles for off-road and street use. Check out our excellent range of options.