Off-Road Trail & Dirt Bikes
- tunlar
- May 14
- 2 min read
Recently, we received conflicting information regarding title and registration for off-road trail and dirt bikes, and apologize if we provided inaccurate information. One customer was told they cannot be titled or registered in PA, but after an in-depth review and many conversations with various state entity employees, we finally found representatives with PENNDOT and PA DCNR that were knowledeable on the subject matter, and clarified the acceptability requirements. They can be titled with PENNDOT, but they cannot be registered.
Obtaining correct information that's not clearly stated in codes, titles, manuals, and reference guides, or by telephone (when you can get through), can be frustrating for the general public and for agents. We're creating reference materials that are clear and concise, so we can provide accurate and current guideline details. Information is subject to change at any time.
PA DCNR, that handles Off-Road Vehicles such as atv's, utv's, side-by-side machines, snowmobiles, and amphibious craft, does NOT title or Register Off-Road Motorcycles or Dirt Bikes.
Street legal motorcycles and dirt bikes are referred to PENNDOT for titling and registration, and we can assist with that process.
PENNDOT will TITLE off-road motorcycles and dirt bikes, providing they are intended only for off-highway use. They WILL NOT REGISTER them, even if the title or mso/mco indicates motorcycle, unless they are Street Legal and meet qualifications. With motorcycles and dirt bikes that are not street legal, there is additional wording regarding off-road, public, or off-highway use, stamped onto the Title/MCO/MSO.
A title is legal proof of ownership in PA. Use caution when purchasing a motorcycle or dirt bike, and review the ownership documents before committing. It's recommended that you check with your local authority, homeowners community or association, and riding trails for their requirements of use. If they require registration with the state, then you may not be able to ride.
We hope this helps to clear the confusion with regard to off-road motorcycles and dirt bikes in Pennsylvania. We can assist with TITLING them through PENNDOT, providing you're a PA resident with a valid driver's license or ID. You cannot apply for Title with just a bill of sale. You will need a properly completed Title, MCO/MSO, Transferable Registration Card, or a Court Order, along with any other supporting documentation that's required for title application with the state.
The Application must be submitted manually, so it may take a few weeks before you receive the title back, and it will be branded ORV (off road vehicle). If you plan on selling your machine, allow sufficient time for the title to be processed so you can legally transfer ownership once you receive the title back.
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