Off-Road Permits

Navigating Arizona’s Off-Road Permit Landscape: What You Need to Know

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay legal and respectful while exploring the desert, mountains, and canyons of the Grand Canyon State.

Whether you're a resident or visiting from out of state, most OHVs operating on public and state trust lands in Arizona must display a valid Arizona OHV decal.

• Any motorized vehicle designed primarily for off-road use and weighing 2,500 lbs or less.
• Includes ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes.

• $25 plus a small processing fee.
• Valid for one year from the date of purchase.

• Residents: Purchase through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s MVD or authorized third-party providers. Visit  AZMVDNow.gov 

• Non-residents: Must buy a nonresident OHV decal online via the Arizona Game and Fish Department portal.  Visit https://www.azgfd.com/off-highway-vehicle/ohv-register-and-renew-your-license/ohv-decals/

Arizona’s State Land Department manages millions of acres of trust land, and off-roading here requires a separate Recreational Use Permit.

Type                       Fee       Coverage

Individual            $15       One person

Family                   $20       Two adults + children under 18

Small Group       $150     Up to 19 people

Large Group       $300     20+ people or organized events

These permits are annual and must be carried while on state trust land. They do not replace the OHV decal—you’ll need both if riding on state lands.

Where To Get It

Visit the Arizona State Land Department at https://land.az.gov/applications-permits

Arizona’s national forests—like Tonto, Coconino, and Prescott—offer expansive OHV opportunities. While most trails are free to access with an OHV decal, certain zones require additional permits.

• Include Bulldog Canyon, The Rolls, St. Clair, and Desert Vista.
• Permit required for motorized access in these zones.

Duration    Cost

3-Day          $10

6-Month    $60

Annual       $80

Each vehicle must have at least one rider with a valid Tonto OHV permit. Youth under 16 can ride without a permit if accompanied by a permitted adult.

Where to Get It

Visit https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/AP22844

Note: Other National Forests may also have permit zones.