Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) & Snowmobile Registration Information
Registration Questions & Answers
If your vehicle is a licensed street legal vehicle you are not required to have an off-highway registration. However, you may register your vehicle with the DNR which will help to fund the OHV properties and programs in Indiana.
How do I register my vehicle?
Complete the OHV registration application. Be certain to include ALL required information and sign where indicated. Also, include a copy of the Bill of Sale for all OHVs purchased after December 31, 2003. This includes a used OHV purchased after that date. Mail or bring your completed application with original signatures, Bill of Sale, and payment (correct amount) to the DNR Customer Service Center (address below).
Applications are NOT taken by fax or over the phone.
All new registrations must have an original signature.
A bill of sale is required for all OHVs purchased (new or used) after December 31, 2003. The bill of sale must include date of purchase, the make, model, and vehicle number (VIN) of the vehicle (IC 14-16-1-8)
Registration renewals can be completed online. This system allows you to print an interim registration that can be used until you receive your decals via U.S. Postal Service. You will need the VIN number of the vehicle and the current (or most recent) registration number to access the system.
Other registration transactions (e.g., transfers ) must be completed by mail or in person through the DNR Customer Service Center (address below).
Why do I have to register my vehicle?
The purpose of registration is twofold (1) registration of vehicles provides a readily available means for law enforcement to track stolen or improperly used vehicles, (2) the revenue received from registrations is used to improve, maintain, and administer the OHV programs, properties, and trails. Additionally, Indiana law IC 14-16-1 states that all ORVs purchased after December 31, 2003 must be registered. Snowmobiles and ORVs must be registered to be ridden on state trails and other public property.
I'm not a resident of Indiana, what do I do?
First determine if your home state requires OHVs to be registered. In this case, registration is defined by IC 14-16-1-9(b) as
(1) A certificate of registration containing the following:
(A) The number awarded to the vehicle.
(B) The name and address of the owner.
(C) Other information that the department considers necessary.
(2) Two (2) decals indicating the vehicle's registration number and the year in which the registration will expire that must be attached to the vehicle as provided in section 11.5 of this chapter.
(c) A certificate of registration must:
(1) be pocket size;
(2) accompany the vehicle; and
(3) be made available for inspection upon demand by a law enforcement officer.
In Indiana an OHV registration certificate includes the vehicle identification number (VIN).
CAUTION!!!!! Many states have “permits”, “decals”, “passes” and/or require titling. THESE ARE NOT REGISTRATIONS and do not allow you to ride in Indiana without a valid registration!
If your state requires OHV registration that complies with the information above, then IC 14-16-1-19 allows out of state residents use of our facilities for up to 20 days a year.
Out of state residents may register their OHV through the Indiana DNR.
Can I register my golf cart?
No. IC 14-8-2-185 clearly states that golf carts are NOT off road vehicles and can not be registered through the DNR.
What if I modify my golf car to make it off-road capable?
No, it was still designed as a golf cart.
How much does it cost to register my vehicle?
The current cost is $30 for 3 years.
Where can I obtain a registration application form?
Applications can be printed from the link at the bottom of this page and are available from DNR Customer Service Center, most dealers, and most license branches.
How long will it take for me to get my registration?
Your registration application will normally be processed within a few days after receipt if all of the information is correct. Your completed registration certificate and decals will be mailed within one day of processing.
If your registration is not correct, blanks are left on the form, a Bill of Sale is not included, it is not signed properly, or the payment is incorrect or not included, the application will be sent back to you for corrections.
Please allow time for processing and mailing. If you have not received your registration after 10 business days, call the Customer Service Center.
When will I be legal to ride my vehicle?
When you receive your registration in the mail and your decals are properly displayed on your vehicle or when you or your dealer have printed your interim registration.
How can I legally ride the vehicle I just purchased?
Keep a copy of your bill of sale with you. It allows you to operate your vehicle for 31 days after purchase. The bill of sale must include date of purchase, the make, model, and vehicle number (VIN) of the vehicle. (IC 14-16-1-8)
If I carry a copy of my registration or renewal application and check, will this be legal until I receive my registration?
No.
The dealer from which I purchased my vehicle has a dealer registration; can I use this until I receive my registration?
No. These registrations are for a dealer or manufacturer to use for testing or demonstration purposes only. These registrations are not for recreational use.
What about the large numbers we had to have on our machines?
The 3" numbers required in the past are no longer needed on ATVs and snowmobiles. The new stickers include the registration number. You are free to remove old numbers.
Who do I call if I need additional information?
The snowmobile/off-road telephone line is answered Monday - Friday, except for holidays, (317) 232-4200 or (877) 463-6367, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
What if I have problems with the online system?
If you have problems with the online renewal system, please contact the webmaster at Access Indiana.
Need a registration form for your vehicle?
For a printable PDF version of this form click HERE.
Print, sign, and mail your registration application with vehicle Bill of Sale and appropriate payment to:
DNR, Customer Service Center
Snowmobile/Off-Road Vehicle Registration Section
402 West Washington St. Room W160
Indianapolis IN 46204-2739
(317) 232-4200 or (877) 463-6367, (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Mon - Fri, except holidays)
Or you may complete your transactions in person at the location above.
Thank you for registering your OHV with the Indiana DNR! Ride Safe and Enjoy!
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