Off-Highway Vehicle License Plates (FFVR 16)

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Off Highway Vehicle License Plates

What Is Different About OHV Plates?

Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) license plates are not a hard metal plate like those issued to automobiles, commercial vehicles, trailers, and motorcycles. Instead they are pliable, metalicized, and self-adhesive for secure application to the vehicle. They also have a unique numbering system.

The plate number is shown at the top of the plate and the vehicle’s registration expiration month and year are shown in the center stripe.

OHV Renewal

All OHVs have a fixed expiration date of June 30. OHV registration renewal occurs every two years after the original registration and a new plate with a new license number is issued upon payment of renewal fees.

NOTE: If your OHV is a motorcycle that you use solely in organized racing or competitive events on a closed course, you may obtain a permit that allows transportation of the vehicle to and from course events. The permit, for which there is a fee, is a reflectorized, red and white, numbered sticker that should be mounted on the vehicle in a clearly visible location. This permit remains valid until the vehicle is sold or dismantled.

License Plate Placement

It is important that you affix the plate in the proper location for the type of vehicle you own. Use the diagrams below to identify the required location for placement of the OHV plate on your vehicle. Before affixing the plate to your vehicle, be sure the placement area is clean and dry.

If you affix the plate incorrectly or keep it in the storage space beneath the vehicle seat, you may be cited by law enforcement.

All Terrain Vehicles. Affix plate to left rear quadrant on permanent plastic or metal frame members visible to outside inspection.

Sandrail and Rail Type Buggies. Affix plate to left quadrant of metal frame visible to the rear.

Snowmobiles. Affix plate to left tunnel on the back.

Motorcycles. Affix plate to left fork leg, either horizontally or vertically, visible from the left.

Red Plate, Green Plate

Some OHVs do not meet emission standards applicable for California OHV riding areas as outlined in California Air Resources Board Regulations and therefore are restricted to use in limited areas and certain times of the year. These vehicles are issued a red OHV plate. The center stripe is white with the month and year in dark blue.

All other OHVs are issued a green plate which has a dark blue center stripe with a white month and year.