Eldorado National Forest

Recreational Activities: Motorized Use Trails

Road Rules

State Laws
All California state laws that apply to the operation of motor vehicles and Off-Highway Vehicles apply to OHV use on National Forest lands.

Alcohol and Drugs
State and Federal Law prohibits operating any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This applies equally to the operation of Off-Highway Vehicles, including those statutes prohibiting drinking while driving, and drinking in a motor vehicle. This affects both driver and passenger.

ATV Age Restrictions
ATV safety certificates are required for riders under 18 years old. In addition, children under 14 years of age must be supervised by a parent, guardian, or authorized adult. See California Vehicle Code for more information.

Driver's License
If your driver's license is suspended or revoked you cannot operate any motor vehicle on public roads, trails, or lands.

Off-Highway Vehicle Registration Placement Law
As of January 1, 1996 California DMV no longer issues a renewal sticker. A new OHV "license plate" is issued upon each renewal. The OHV license plate must be affixed in a specific location on an Off-Highway Vehicle.

• Motorcycles - On the left fork leg, either horizontal or vertical, visible from the left.
• All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) - On the left rear quadrant of metal frame, visible from rear.
• Snowmobile - On the left tunnel on the back.
• Sand Rail, Rail-type Buggies - On the left quadrant of metal frame, visible to the rear.

For better adhesion, clean surface thoroughly. Remove any old license plates.

Helmet
You must have a Department of Transportation approved safety helmet if you are operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) on public lands or roads. You must also have an approved helmet if you are riding a motorcycle on a highway.

Noise - Your off-highway vehicle must meet California state noise emission standards of 101 -dB(A) or less if it was manufactured before January 1, 1986. Those vehicles manufactured after this date have a 96 -dB(A) or less noise limit.

Out-of-State Visitor
If you are visiting California, you must meet California state registration requirements. A non-resident registration sticker may be required. See the California Department of Motor Vehicles web site for more information. These stickers may also be purchased at local vendors.

Passenger
Generally, you cannot carry a passenger on an ATV while riding on public lands. A factory built 2 seat ATV can carry one passenger only. (CA Vehicle Code sections 111 and 38506).

Paved Roads
Vehicles with Off-Highway Vehicle registrations cannot operate on paved roads.

Registration
California residents must have a current highway license plate or Off-Highway Vehicle registration (green or red sticker) for all vehicles. Out-of State visitors see the section above.

Resource Damage
Off-Highway Vehicles must not be operated in a manner creating damage or disturbance to soil, water, vegetation, or wildlife resources. Excessive OHV related damage to forest resources may lead to temporary or permanent closures.

Safe Operation
For your safety and others, Off-Highway Vehicles must never be operated in a manner likely to endanger any person or property. Driving at excessive speeds, careless and reckless driving are prohibited, and dangerous. The speed limit within 50 feet of a campground, campsite, people, or animals is 15 mph.

Spark Arrestor
Your vehicle must have an approved spark arrestor or muffler in good working condition.

USDA Forest Service - Eldorado National Forest
Last Modified: Friday, 15 July 2005 at 15:48:16 EDT