Recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs), commonly called UTVs or side-by-sides, combine utility and trail capability. Their open design and higher speeds mean that safety habits are not optional. Whether you already own a machine or are still choosing an off-road vehicle, understanding the core safety rules helps protect everyone in the vehicle.
CPSC safety rules for ROVs
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) provides clear guidance for ROV operation. According to the CPSC’s ROV Safety Information Center, you should never drive an ROV on paved roads. The agency also states that everyone riding in an ROV should wear a helmet, and that protective gear such as eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt should be worn.
The CPSC emphasizes occupant protection. Always fasten seat belts and keep all parts of your body inside the vehicle. Never have more passengers than there are seat belts, and never carry passengers in cargo beds. A CPSC safety tips poster adds that children should not be passengers in an ROV unless their feet can reach the floor in a sitting position, and that riders younger than 16 should only drive age-appropriate youth model ATVs, never adult models or ROVs.
The CPSC also recommends getting hands-on training from a qualified instructor. The agency directs riders to visit ATVsafety.org to find a class. These rules are part of the CPSC’s effort to reduce ROV-related deaths and injuries, and the agency has worked with manufacturers on safety improvements since 2009.
ROHVA driving tips and training
The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) offers its own set of driving tips that reinforce and expand on the CPSC’s advice. According to ROHVA, you should always fasten your seat belt, wear a helmet and other protective gear, and keep all parts of your body inside the ROV. ROHVA also says to avoid paved surfaces because ROVs are designed for off-highway use. Drive only in designated areas, at a safe speed, and use care when turning and crossing slopes.
ROHVA stresses that you should never drive or ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The organization also states that you should never drive an ROV unless you are 16 or older and have a valid driver’s license. ROHVA reminds owners that ROVs are not toys. Never carry more passengers than the ROV is designed for, and never allow a passenger who is too small to sit in a passenger seat to ride. Reading and following the operator’s manual and warning labels is essential. ROHVA encourages taking a hands-on ROV Basic DriverCourse and a free online E-Course.
ROHVA model law: a template for state regulations
ROHVA has published a model state law that outlines recommended legal requirements for ROV operation. States set their own laws, so treat the model law as ROHVA’s recommendation, not the rule where you ride. Under the model law, an ROV operator must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. No operator may carry a passenger who is unable to place both feet flat on the floorboard while seated upright with their back against the seatbacks, or who cannot reach the occupant handholds when seated.
The model law requires that every operator and passenger wear eye protection and a DOT-compliant safety helmet. Seat belt use is mandatory for all occupants. The law prohibits carrying passengers in the bed of an ROV and carrying more passengers than the manufacturer recommends. It also prohibits operating an ROV on public streets, roads, or highways unless the road is part of a designated trail system or for crossing purposes. When crossing is permitted, the crossing must be made at approximately 90 degrees, the vehicle must come to a complete stop before entering the roadway, the operator must yield to oncoming traffic, and both headlight and taillight must be on. Crossing any interstate or limited access highway is not permitted.
The model law also requires that ROVs be equipped with a brake system in good condition, an effective muffler system, and a spark arrester. Operation under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited. Because actual laws vary, you should always check the regulations in your state and on the specific land where you plan to ride.
Pre-ride checklist for UTV owners
Before every ride, a quick walk-around and passenger check can prevent many common incidents. While no single checklist fits every machine, the safety rules from the CPSC and ROHVA point to several items you should verify each time. Start by confirming that every seat belt works and that you have exactly as many passengers as seat belts, never more. Check that each passenger can sit with their back against the seat and both feet flat on the floorboard, and that they can reach the handholds. Make sure everyone is wearing a DOT-compliant helmet, eye protection, and other protective gear like long sleeves, long pants, gloves and boots.
Inspect the vehicle itself. A thorough pre-trip inspection should include the brakes, lights, and muffler. If you will ride near dusk or in low visibility, confirm that the headlight and taillight work. Ensure the spark arrester is in place if required. Review the operator’s manual for any model-specific checks. Finally, plan your route to stay off paved roads and within designated off-highway areas. Driving at a safe speed and using care on slopes and turns is part of responsible off-road driving.
Frequently asked questions
Can children ride in a UTV?
The CPSC says children should not be passengers in an ROV unless their feet can reach the floor in a sitting position. ROHVA’s model law similarly requires that a passenger be able to place both feet flat on the floorboard while seated upright with their back against the seatbacks, and to reach the handholds. Riders younger than 16 should not drive an ROV, according to the CPSC and ROHVA. Always check your state’s laws, as age and passenger rules may differ.
Do I need a helmet in a side-by-side?
Yes. The CPSC states that everyone riding in an ROV should wear a helmet. ROHVA’s driving tips and model law both specify a DOT-compliant safety helmet for operators and passengers. Eye protection is also required by the model law and recommended by the CPSC.
Can I drive a UTV on the road?
Generally, no. The CPSC says do not drive ROVs on paved roads. ROHVA advises avoiding paved surfaces because ROVs are designed for off-highway use. The ROHVA model law prohibits operation on public streets, roads, or highways unless the road is part of a designated trail system or you are making a specific type of crossing at a 90-degree angle with a full stop and lights on. Many states have their own rules, so check local regulations before riding on any road.
For more on selecting and using UTVs, visit our UTVs page. You can also explore the broader off-road vehicles section for guides on ATVs, trucks, and SUVs.
