Minnesota Bike Laws: What You Need to Know
Off-Road Use: Registration Requirements
In Minnesota, dirt bikes are classified as Off-Highway Motorcycles (OHMs) and must be registered with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to operate on public lands, designated trails, and frozen waters.
- Registration Requirements:
- All OHMs must be registered annually with the DNR.
- The registration period runs from January 1 through December 31.
- A bill of sale including the year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) is required when purchasing a used OHM.
- Nonresident OHMs are not required to register in Minnesota if they are not in the state for more than 30 days.
- All OHMs must be registered annually with the DNR.
- Helmet and Eye Protection:
- Operators and passengers under 18 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating or riding on an OHM.
- Eye protection is recommended for all riders, regardless of age.
- Operators and passengers under 18 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating or riding on an OHM.
- Age Restrictions:
- Operators under 16 must possess a valid OHM safety certificate to operate on public lands or waters.
- Operators under 12 are prohibited from operating an OHM on public lands or waters unless accompanied by a person 18 years of age or older who holds a valid driver’s license.
- Operators under 16 must possess a valid OHM safety certificate to operate on public lands or waters.
Street Use: Converting a Dirt Bike to Street-Legal
Converting a dirt bike to be street-legal in Minnesota is possible but involves a detailed process:
- Install Required Equipment:
- DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.
- Taillight with brake light function.
- Rearview mirrors (one on each side).
- Turn signals (front and rear).
- Horn audible from at least 200 feet.
- Speedometer and odometer.
- DOT-approved tires.
- Muffler to comply with noise regulations.
- DOT-approved headlight with high and low beams.
- Inspection and Documentation:
- Complete a TR-54 inspection form, which may require a law enforcement officer’s verification.
- Provide proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale or previous title).
- Submit the completed TR-54 form and documentation to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
- Complete a TR-54 inspection form, which may require a law enforcement officer’s verification.
- Registration:
- Register the bike with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety as an “Assembled Vehicle.”
- Pay applicable registration fees.
- Obtain a Minnesota license plate for the bike.
- Register the bike with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety as an “Assembled Vehicle.”
- Insurance:
- Secure liability insurance for the bike.
- Secure liability insurance for the bike.
Where You Can Ride
Off-Road:
- Private Property: Riding on private property is permitted with the landowner’s consent.
- Public Lands: Riding on public lands is allowed only in designated areas and trails. Minnesota has several OHM trails and parks where off-road riding is permitted.
On-Road:
- Permitted Roads: Operation of off-road motorcycles on public roads is generally prohibited unless the bike has been converted to meet street-legal requirements and is properly registered and insured.
- 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 Minnesota, including dirt bikes.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to adhere to Minnesota’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 Minnesota Laws and Agencies
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Handles OHM registration and manages public lands and designated OHM trails. dnr.state.mn.us
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety: Handles vehicle titling, registration, and licensing.
- Minnesota Statutes Chapter 84: Outlines motor vehicle laws, including those pertaining to dirt bikes and off-road vehicles. revisor.mn.gov
