California’s off-road community is closely watching Assembly Bill 1613 (AB 1613), legislation that would establish a statewide Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Safety and Stewardship Program. While supporters say the proposal will improve rider safety, promote responsible recreation, and help protect public land access, critics worry it could create new barriers for OHV enthusiasts while increasing costs and regulatory requirements.
Because California is home to some of the nation’s most popular off-road destinations—including Glamis, Johnson Valley, Ocotillo Wells, Pismo Beach, and Dumont Dunes—the legislation could have implications not only for California residents but also for thousands of riders who travel from neighboring states each year.
What AB 1613 Would Do
AB 1613 would direct California’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division to develop a statewide safety and stewardship education program for OHV users. The curriculum would be created through a stakeholder process involving riders, manufacturers, dealerships, rental operators, conservation groups, tribal governments, public land agencies, and other interested parties.
The program would focus on safe vehicle operation, trail etiquette, environmental stewardship, protection of cultural resources, public land regulations, and responsible recreation practices. Supporters believe the program could help reduce accidents, minimize resource damage, and demonstrate that the OHV community is committed to being responsible stewards of public lands.
Mandatory Operator Cards Beginning in 2029
One of the most significant provisions of AB 1613 is the creation of a California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Safety and Stewardship Operator Card.
Beginning July 1, 2029, most OHV operators age 16 and older would be required to possess a valid operator card while riding on covered public lands. Riders would earn the card by successfully completing the state’s approved education course or through an approved reciprocal certification program from another state. The card would remain valid for five years before requiring renewal.
The bill would also require riders age 15 and younger to be supervised by an adult who holds a valid operator card or approved reciprocal certification while operating an OHV on applicable public lands.
New Costs for Riders
AB 1613 establishes a $25 fee for the education course, with revenues directed into California’s Off-Highway Vehicle Trust Fund to support administration of the program and other OHV-related initiatives.
Although the fee itself may seem modest, some riders are concerned that future increases could occur and that families with multiple riders could face additional costs. Others point out that the time required to complete mandatory training could become another hurdle for casual participants entering the sport.
Potential Benefits for Public Land Access
Supporters argue that one of the greatest benefits of AB 1613 could be improved long-term protection of OHV access.
Public land managers often cite safety concerns, resource damage, and user conflicts when evaluating trail systems and recreation areas. Advocates believe a statewide education program could help address many of those concerns by teaching riders how to stay on designated routes, respect cultural and environmental resources, and recreate responsibly.
Many in the OHV community recognize that the actions of a small number of irresponsible users can negatively impact access for everyone. Proponents say a comprehensive stewardship program could strengthen the case for maintaining existing riding opportunities and opening new ones in the future.
Concerns from the Off-Road Community
Despite its focus on safety and stewardship, the bill has generated significant discussion among riders and advocacy organizations.
Critics argue that mandatory certification creates another layer of regulation for a community that already complies with vehicle registration requirements, safety equipment standards, and land-use regulations. Some fear that AB 1613 could serve as a foundation for additional restrictions or increased fees in the future.
Others question whether mandatory training is necessary for experienced riders who have spent years recreating responsibly on public lands without incident.
Impact on Out-of-State Riders
California’s off-road destinations attract visitors from across the country, particularly from neighboring states such as Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Idaho, and Texas. Popular destinations like the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (Glamis), Johnson Valley OHV Area, and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area generate millions of dollars in tourism revenue annually through lodging, fuel sales, restaurants, vehicle rentals, repairs, and aftermarket parts purchases.
If AB 1613 becomes law, out-of-state visitors could also be affected. While the legislation directs California officials to pursue reciprocity agreements with other states, the details of those agreements remain uncertain. Riders visiting California may eventually need to show proof of an approved safety certification from their home state or complete California’s training program before operating an OHV on covered public lands.
Some tourism advocates worry that additional requirements could discourage occasional visitors who travel to California specifically for events, dune trips, trail rides, and racing activities. Others believe reciprocity agreements will ultimately minimize disruption while ensuring all riders receive some level of safety and stewardship education.
Impact on the OHV Industry
The off-road industry could experience both benefits and challenges if AB 1613 is enacted.
Manufacturers, dealerships, tour operators, rental businesses, and aftermarket companies could benefit from a safer and more educated customer base. Reduced accidents and improved public perception of OHV recreation could help support long-term growth of the industry.
At the same time, any requirements that discourage participation could affect businesses that depend on tourism and first-time riders. This concern is especially significant in communities near major OHV destinations where off-road recreation plays an important role in the local economy.
Looking Ahead
AB 1613 has advanced through the California Legislature and continues to move through the legislative process. If ultimately signed into law, California would establish one of the most comprehensive OHV education and certification programs in the United States.
The debate surrounding the bill highlights a broader question facing the off-road community: how to balance safety, stewardship, and responsible recreation with personal freedom and easy access to public lands.
Regardless of where riders stand on the issue, AB 1613 has the potential to influence OHV policy far beyond California’s borders. As one of the nation’s largest recreation markets, California often sets trends that other states eventually consider. If implemented successfully, similar programs could emerge elsewhere, making this legislation an issue worth watching for OHV enthusiasts across the country.
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