Setting the Record Straight: Families Can Enjoy OHVs on Designated Routes in Arizona Without A Driver License Under New Law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Setting the Record Straight: Families Can Enjoy OHVs on Designated Routes in Arizona Without A Driver License

Under New Law

PHOENIX, ARIZONA— After multiple media publications misinterpreted a new law creating a safer experience for users of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in Arizona while promoting good land stewardship, Senator Sine Kerr is setting the record straight on driver license requirements specified in SB 1567.

Contrary to false information being reported, the bipartisan bill signed into law last week allows outdoor enthusiasts the ability to continue to enjoy operating OHVs on designated routes within Arizona. A driver license will only be required when operators are taking OHVs out on highways. If a child between the ages of 12 and 15 is operating an OHV on a highway, then either the parent/guardian of the child, or the child themselves, may be issued a citation. If a child under the age of 12 operates an OHV on a highway, then the parent/guardian may be issued a citation, but not the child.

Additionally, the new law will make it illegal to consume alcohol while operating an OHV. Operators of OHVs will also be required to complete a one-time education course to renew their OHV registrations in Arizona beginning in 2025. Regulations outlined in SB 1567 apply to both Arizona residents and out-of-state visitors.

"I've been receiving a number of emails and phone calls over concerns that this bill takes away the freedom to enjoy an OHV without a driver license, and I want to put everyone's minds at ease," said Senator Kerr. "Both adults and kids are allowed to operate OHVs on designated routes without a driver license. The law requires OHV enthusiasts to have a driver license only when operating on a highway. It also clarifies existing law that operators must be protective of the safety of people, property, wildlife, and our natural resources while operating OHVs. Failure to do so may result in citations. While this legislation is not perfect, it's a good step in the right direction to ensure families are returning home to their loved ones at the end of their adventure, and OHV operators are protecting the beauty of Arizona's great outdoors so that future generations may have the same wonderful opportunities in nature. I look forward to upcoming legislative study committees on OHVs so that we can continue to create commonsense policies to allow for a more enjoyable experience on our lands."

This law takes effect on September 14, 2024.

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For more information, contact: Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus kquintero@azleg.gov