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.