If you own an ATV or UTV in Alabama, there’s some good news coming your way.
Thanks to a new law passed in 2024, Alabama is officially creating a way for Off-Road Vehicles to be titled — giving owners clearer proof of ownership and making it easier to buy, sell, or transfer these vehicles legally.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing, when it starts, and what you need to know.
When Does This Start?
- The law took effect on October 1, 2024.
- The Alabama system (ALVIN) will begin accepting Off-Road title applications on January 1, 2026.
That means you’ll be able to apply for Off-Road titles starting in 2026.
Can Off-Road Vehicles Be Registered?
No — and that part hasn’t changed.
Off-Road Vehicles:
- Can be titled
- Cannot be registered
- Cannot be driven on public roads
This process is about ownership — not road use.
Does It Cost More?
Nope 😊
The title fees for Off-Road Vehicles are the same as regular vehicle title fees.
What Types of Off-Road Vehicles Are Included?
Alabama recognizes two types of Off-Road Vehicles:
All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
- Weigh less than 1,500 pounds
- Have 3 to 10 wheels
- Are no wider than 60 inches
Utility Vehicles (UTVs)
- Weigh less than 3,500 pounds
- Have 4 to 10 wheels
- Are no wider than 80 inches
The system checks these automatically to make sure everything lines up.
What Information Will Be Required?
When titling an Off-Road Vehicle, two extra details will be required:
- Number of wheels
- Vehicle width
This helps make sure the vehicle is properly classified.
What About Model Year Limits?
To qualify:
- The vehicle must be model year 2026 or newer
- It must not be more than 10 model years old
This keeps the system focused on modern Off-Road Vehicles.
Can Off-Road Vehicles Go Through Bonded or TOBOL Titles?
Yes — they can.
Off-Road Vehicles are allowed to go through:
- The Surety Bond process
- The TOBOL (Title Only by Owner in Lieu) process
They just follow the same rules as other vehicles in those situations.
Can Off-Road Vehicles Be Abandoned or Unclaimed?
No.
Off-Road Vehicles cannot go through the Unclaimed or Abandoned Vehicle process.
How Are Off-Road Vehicles Identified?
The state system automatically marks them with:
- An Off-Road indicator, and
- An Off-Road brand
This helps keep them clearly separate from standard highway vehicles.
What About Dealers and Designated Agents?
Not everyone can process Off-Road titles automatically.
Designated Agents must submit an Off-Road Titling Opt-In request to be approved before they can process these titles.
Why This Is Good for Owners
This new system:
- Gives you official proof of ownership
- Makes buying and selling easier
- Protects both buyers and sellers
- Adds clarity to private sales and transfers
Even though you still can’t drive them on the road, Off-Road Vehicles now get the same legal structure as other titled vehicles.
Bottom Line
Starting January 1, 2026, Alabama Off-Road Vehicle owners finally have a clear, official way to title their ATVs and UTVs. It’s a big step forward for Off-Road owners, dealers, and buyers alike.
If you plan to buy, sell, or transfer an Off-Road Vehicle in Alabama, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the rules now — so you’re ready when the system opens.
If you have questions or need help with the process, reach out to a licensed Designated Agent or title service that handles Off-Road titling.
At this time, JSE can only handle the Surety Title Bond process on ATV's & UTV's.
