Wyoming Bike Laws: What You Need to Know
DirtLegal breaks down Wyoming dirt bike rules, including off-road registration, street-legal requirements, and the best trails to ride across the state.
Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements
In Wyoming, dirt bikes used exclusively off-road must be registered as Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) and display a current Wyoming ORV decal.
Helmet and Eye Protection:
- Under 18: Riders under 18 are legally required to wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating a plated motorcycle.
- All Riders: While not mandated for all, helmet use is strongly encouraged for safety.
Age Restrictions:
- Under 14: May operate an ORV only on designated trails, riding areas, or private property with permission.
- 14 and Older: Can operate on roads, routes, and trails designated for ORV travel.
Operation on Public Roads:
- Non-street-legal dirt bikes may cross public roads at a 90-degree angle where permitted, after coming to a complete stop and yielding to traffic.
Lighting Requirements:
- When operating from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise, dirt bikes must have a working headlamp, taillight, and brake light.
Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal
As of July 1, 2021, Wyoming allows dirt bikes to be registered for on-road use, excluding interstate highways.
Conversion Steps:
- Required Equipment:
- Headlight (high or low beam)
- Taillight and brake light
- Rear reflector
- Muffler
- Brakes
- Mirror
- Horn
- Title and Registration:
- Obtain a title from the County Clerk.
- Register the bike with the County Treasurer.
- Complete the MPV/ORV-MC Checklist Form and submit it to the respective county official.
- Insurance:
- Liability insurance is required for all street-legal motorcycles.
- License Plate:
- Affix a valid Wyoming license plate in a visible and unobstructed manner.
Where You Can Ride
Off-Road:
- Private Property: Riding is permitted with the landowner’s consent.
- Public Lands: Allowed only in designated areas and trails enrolled in the ORV program.
On-Road:
- Permitted Roads: Street-legal dirt bikes can operate on public roads, excluding interstate highways.
- Crossing Roads: Off-road dirt bikes may cross public roads at a 90-degree angle during daylight hours, provided they come to a complete stop and yield to oncoming traffic.
Rider Requirements
- License: A valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement is required to operate a street-legal dirt bike on public roads.
- Helmet Use: Riders under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet; helmet use is recommended for all riders.
- Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory for all street-legal vehicles in Wyoming, including dirt bikes.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to adhere to Wyoming’s dirt bike laws can result in:
- Fines: Monetary penalties for unregistered or improperly equipped vehicles.
- Impoundment: Unauthorized vehicles may be impounded by law enforcement.
- License Suspension: Operating without a valid license or insurance can lead to suspension of driving privileges.
Relevant Wyoming Laws and Agencies
- Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT): Handles vehicle titling, registration, and licensing.
- Wyoming State Trails Program: Oversees ORV trails and regulations.
- Wyoming Statutes Title 31: Outlines motor vehicle laws, including those pertaining to dirt bikes and off-road vehicles._
