Selling a atv / utv in Michigan — what to know
In Michigan an ATV is an ORV — off-road vehicle — and ORVs carry titles issued by the Secretary of State. A legitimate private sale therefore involves the signed-over ORV title plus a bill of sale recording the price and date. The buyer takes both to an SOS office to transfer the title (and pays 6% use tax on the price).
Riding legally adds the DNR layer: an ORV license (sticker) each season, plus a trail permit if you ride the state trail system. Those are bought fresh by the new owner — they don’t transfer — but the title and bill of sale are what prove the machine is yours to license.
Michigan rules at a glance
| Topic | Michigan rule |
|---|---|
| Title | Yes — Michigan ORVs are titled by the Secretary of State (SOS). |
| Stickers | Annual DNR ORV license required to ride; add the trail permit for the designated trail system. |
| Notarization | Not required in Michigan. |
| Use tax | 6% collected at SOS transfer, based on the bill of sale price. |
| Deadline | Transfer the title promptly after purchase — riding an untransferred machine invites tickets and disputes. |
Last reviewed August 2026. Rules change — confirm current requirements with the state agency before your sale.
Michigan ATV / UTV bill of sale — FAQ
Do ATVs have titles in Michigan?
Yes — ORV titles issued by the Secretary of State. Transfer the title and keep a signed bill of sale for the price record.
Does the bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. Signatures of both parties are sufficient in Michigan.
What stickers do I need to ride?
A DNR ORV license annually, plus a trail permit for the state trail system. Both are bought by the new owner — they don’t come with the machine.
What tax applies to a private ATV sale?
Michigan collects 6% use tax at the SOS when the title transfers, calculated from the purchase price on your bill of sale.