You own a Can-Am Maverick, Defender or Commander and love the thrill of conquering mountain roads and challenges. However, is a Can-Am Street Legal? Can you legally drive it from the garage to the start of the mountain road, or do something quickly in town? The answer is complex because it involves a range of state and local laws. This guide will answer your confusion, explain what it really means “to be on the road legally” for your Can-Am, and help you understand the legal requirements.
Knowing Can-Am Street Legality
First, we need to figure out the basic differences between Can-Am’s different product lines. Models like the Spyder and Ryker are three-wheeled motorcycles that are factory-designed to hit the road. They all have a vehicle identification number (VIN), meet all federal motor vehicle safety standards, and can be legally on the road when you buy them home.
But the Side-by-Side (UTV) models that we’re focusing on today ——Maverick (sporty), Defender (multipurpose) and Commander (casual/multipurpose) are not the same. These vehicles are designed for off-road use. They feature off-road tires, long-stroke suspension, and high ground clearance. It is easy to run on muddy, gravel, or rough terrain. But on public roads, it is not suitable. From the factory, manufacturers don’t equip them with basic road safety devices such as turn signals, horns, or road-compliant tires. Because they’re built specifically for off-road use, these vehicles lack a standard road plate, registration, and driving license.
Texas Is a Long-Standing Anti-UTV State
To understand how troublesome it is to get a Can-Am on the road legally, let’s take Texas as an example. While UTV is very popular in this state, Texas has been one of the hardest places to get Can-Am to qualify on the road. For many years, Texas law had classified UTVs as “off-road machinery”, in the same category as quad bikes and golf carts, which also meant they could not be driven on public roads. Over the years, lawmakers have adjusted the regulations several times, but each change has only made them more confusing. For example, a recent rule now requires UTVs to be licensed and registered, yet it still doesn’t clearly state whether they’re allowed on public roads. There are indeed some exceptions to the rules, such as allowing travel within 25 miles of the farm, but for the average casual player, this is of little use.
This creates a very strange phenomenon: a high-performance model like the Can-Am Maverick X3 is actually very stable on the highway, but it is not allowed on the road, while a much smaller motorcycle can legally run on the highway. Unwilling, some owners came up with “workarounds”— like registering their car in a UTV-friendly state, like South Dakota or Montana. Because states usually have to recognize license plates and registrations that are legal in other states. However, this approach is actually a gray area, and it’s quite complicated to operate, so it’s not suitable for everyone.
Street Legal Kits For Can-Am UTVs
Choosing the right street legal kit for your UTV will depend on the laws of your state. The street legal kit contents of this kit are not universal. In many states, such as Arizona, there are specific requirements for making your side-by-side street legal. For example, in places in the Midwest, such as Arizona or Utah, the requirements are actually quite clear. You may need to prepare:
- A trumpet audible from two hundred feet away;
- At least one rear-view mirror and one side-view mirror;
- Lighted plate holders;
- Brake lights and headlamps that work.
If your region is more restrictive, the list might be even longer. You might also have to think about noise and emissions. Say, if your Can-Am gets a loud modified exhaust pipe, it probably won’t pass noise detection. Similarly, some states have emission requirements that require specific mufflers or catalytic converters. Before you start buying parts, it’s a good idea to check out the specifics on your local Motor Vehicle Administration (DMV) website, where the most complete and accurate list will be available.
Making Your Can-AM Vehicle Legal
Once you know the requirements of your state, you can modify your Can-Am. Let it street-compliant machine. The whole process needs to install several key components. Although the exact requirements are a little different, here are the most common modifications you will need to make.
Turn Signals and Horn
You need to prepare a complete kit, which will usually include front and rear turn signal indicators (generally amber LEDs) and toggle switches mounted on the instrument panel or steering column. More, an ordinary 12-volt horn is necessary for alerting others on the road.
Mirrors
You also have to fit a full set of rearview mirrors to see behind and on both sides of the car. Generally, a wide-angle rearview mirror is installed on the roll cage, followed by a side-view mirror on each side of the A-pillar.
DOT-Approved Windshield and Wiper
Many states require the installation of Department of Transportation (DOT) certified safety glass windscreens to prevent gravel or debris from flying in. In general, a normal laminated safety glass windscreen will suffice. If you install a full windshield, quite a few places will ask you to add a wiper that works fine.
Street-Legal Tires
Usually, the kind of off-road tires have good performance in the mud, but don’t meet the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) road-going standards. To get on the road legally, you might have to change into a DOT-rated set of road tires.
License Plate Mount with Light
Your state issues you license plates. It must be mounted on the rear of your vehicle and illuminated to be visible at night.
The process may seem a bit cumbersome, but it can be done all in one go, as long as it’s planned in advance. For retrofits to be stable and durable, choosing the right high-quality, compatible Can-Am parts is key. A reliable after-sales supplier can provide all kinds of accessories, from the rearview mirror kit to the turn signal system, which can be perfectly adapted to your model. Making UTVs legal on the road is about improving security and visibility. The point is to make it easier for other drivers to read your movements and know what you are going to do next.
Key Things to Know Before Hitting the Road
When all accessories are installed, your car may need to go to a qualified state agency for a safety check. The inspector will confirm that all essential parts are fitted and also work properly.
- Title and Registration: You have to bring the original manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO), proof of vehicle ownership, and a report of passing the inspection to the Vehicle Administration (DMV) to apply for a road permit and registration. This step is usually the most cumbersome, as the DMV process is not the same in every state.
- Insurance: Without liability insurance, you can’t legally go on public roads. Remember to buy insurance that meets your state’s minimum requirements.
- Driver’s License: Generally, a regular driver’s license can drive a UTV that is legally on the road.
- One final reminder: legal regulations often change, and modifications that can hit the road today may not work tomorrow. It’s recommended that you periodically check your local regulations or ask the authorities to ensure compliance at all times.
Final Thoughts
Is Can-Am Street Legal? Although regulations differ in states, you can make certain modifications to make it legal. You should always put safety first and ensure compliance with the law. Ready to modify your Can-Am or want to replace some old parts? FridayParts offers a variety of compatible modification and replacement parts, such as lighting kits, rearview mirrors, brakes, etc., to make your car safer, more practical, and more free to ride on the road.
Street Legal FAQ
What does ‘street legal’ mean?
“Street Legal” means your UTV meets all state and local road standards after modification, has valid ownership, registration, and insurance, and can legally drive on public roads. Each state sets its own rules for where you can ride — some only allow local streets, while others permit certain roads. Most states, however, prohibit driving on interstate highways.
Do you have to apply for separate registration?
That’s right, the original off-road registration can’t be used on the road. After your car has passed all the necessary checks, you have to go to the local DMV to re-register and license plate.
What are the most popular UTV street legal kits? Where should I start?
The most common kits often include turn signals and a horn, which are basically indispensable for all cars. Then you can add the rearview mirror and the license plate holder with lights. It is better to choose a complete set of kits from a reliable brand, so that the various parts are compatible and easier to install.
What Are the Legal Requirements for a UTV to be Street Legal?
While it varies by state, the core requirements usually include:
- Lighting: Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- Visibility: A mirror kit (rearview and side-view).
- Safety: A horn, DOT-approved tires, and often a safety glass windshield.
- Paperwork: A passed safety inspection, an on-road title, valid registration, and proof of insurance.
