On- and Off-Road Motorcycle Certification Enforcement Program
CARB's Enforcement Program is responsible for preventing the illegal sale and use of non-conforming or non-California certified vehicles, engines, and emissions related parts in California. One category that CARB regulates is Off-Highway Recreational Vehicles.
The California Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle (OHRV) regulations were implemented for off-road motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1997. These regulations require all off-highway recreational vehicles sold in California, model year 1998 and later, to be certified by ARB.
Compliant Certification
A vehicle certified compliant meets the emission standards set forth by the regulation and will receive a green registration sticker from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The green sticker allows the vehicle to be operated in any designated riding area at any time during the year. To facilitate enforcement, all OHRVs that are 2002 model year and older will receive a green registration sticker from the DMV. To view the DMV website for Off-Highway Vehicles, please visit the DMV Off-Highway Vehicles web page.
Non-Compliant Certification
A vehicle certified non-compliant does not meet the emission standards set forth by the regulation and will receive a red registration sticker from the DMV. The red sticker limits the use of the vehicle according to the regulations. Operating an OHRV with a red sticker may be allowed during specific seasons depending on the area in which it is operated. A list of seasonal riding periods is available at Red Sticker Open Riding Schedule or you may telephone ARB at 1-800-242-4450.
List of Certified Vehicles
To view CARB Executive Orders which list all certified Off-Road Recreational Vehicles for recent model years, please visit: Executive Orders Listing. The list specifies two categories of certification: Green and Red sticker vehicles. This information is made available to assist California consumers purchasing legal off-highway recreational vehicles and to OHRV dealers to ensure they are offering legal products for sale.
Laws and Regulations
California Health and Safety Code Sections § 43150-43156 provide for a maximum fine of $5,000 per non-certified vehicle that is imported, delivered, purchased, sold, rented, leased, acquired or received for use, registration or resale in California.
Contact Us
For more information about the OHRV certification program, please visit our On-Road New Vehicle & Engine Certification Program web page. If you have questions, please email.