Off-Road Vehicle Permits

Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) use is a core part of the visitor experience at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, dating back decades. Driving on the beach can be a relaxing experience, and procide access to lesser-seen places of the Seashore. To drive on the beach, you must obtain an ORV Permit.

Obtaining an ORV permit is an easy process that takes only minutes. ORV permits are available online only. Please visit Recreation.gov. to obtain your permit 24 hours a day.

For specific questions about Cape Hatteras ORV permits, contact the ORV Office at 252-475-9054.

 

Online Permitting Process:

The online permit process is as simple as

1. Watching the ORV Safety Video to learn best practices for safe and enjoyable beach driving.
2. Going to the Cape Hatteras ORV Permit page on Recreation.gov,
3. Filling out the online application, and
4. Print the permit and proof-of-permit and place them in your vehicle (Annual proof-of-permit stickers will be mailed, but the printed proof-of-permit is good for 30 days). If you cannot print the proof-of-permit, you can pick up a self-certification card from outside our visitor centers or at many local tackle shops. On the self-certification card, simply write in the information from your permit, sign the card, and place on your dashboard.

Two types of permits are available for purchase. They are

• a 10-day Permit ($50, valid for 10 consecutive days),
• or an Annual Permit ($120, valid for one year from date of purchase).

Remember to keep the permit in the permitted vehicle and the proof-of-permit sticker clearly visible on your windshield.

View ORV frequently asked questions and current beach access information. For specific questions about Cape Hatteras ORV permits that aren't addressed on the frequently asked questions page, contact the ORV Office at 252-475-9054.

To sign up for beach access text alerts, text CAHAORV to 333111.

 

ORV Frequently Asked Questions:

You may obtain a permit at any time via the web by visiting Recreation.gov. Permits will be available immediately. You can also call 1-877-444-6777 to be connected to a Recreation.gov representative.

What are my options for obtaining an ORV Permit?

What is a print-at-home permit?
A print-at-home permit is an ORV permit that you can obtain through Recreation.gov. After you purchase the permit online, you will receive a digital copy of your permit registration, the rules and regulations, and a proof of permit windshield decal.

10-day permittees will print their permit and proof of permit directly from Recreation.gov. The permit will be kept in the vehicle and the proof of permit must be displayed in the lower driver's side of the windshield. The proof of permit will be displayed at all times that the permittee wishes to access the beach with an ORV.

Do I have to print the permit, or can I keep it digitally on my smart phone?
You must print all three pages of the permit. Digital proof of payment, including screenshots, are not acceptable. If you do not have access to a printer, you may visit any NPS campground or visitor center to obtain a self-certification card.

• Page one of the printed permit is the registration form. It should kept in the permitted vehicle while driving on Seashore beaches. The signature block on the permit form must be signed in order for the permit to be valid.

• Page two of the printed permit contains all the beach driving rules and regulations.

• Page three of the printed permit is the visible proof of permit that must be affixed (taped) to the bottom of the driver’s side windshield. The visible proof of permit must be affixed and displayed properly, in order for the permit to be valid.

If you cannot print the proof-of-permit, you can pick up a self-certification card from outside our visitor centers or at many local tackle shops. On the self-certification card, simply write in the information from your permit, sign the card, and place on your dashboard.

I purchased an annual permit; will I get an annual decal?
Yes. Annual permit holders can start using their permits immediately with the print-at-home permit. The printed temporary proof of permit can be used for up to 30 days as you wait for your decal to arrive. A permanent annual decal will be mailed to the address listed in Recreation.gov. The decal must then be affixed to the vehicle within 30 days of the date of purchase. If you need assistance regarding the shipping of the annual decal, contact us directly at 252-475-9054.

Can I switch my permit from one vehicle to the next?
No. Permits are non-transferable to another vehicle.

I need assistance with a problem I have with an online permit order. Who do I contact?
If you need assistance with ordering an ORV Permit, please contact Recreation.gov directly. You may contact the customer service department by phone, email, and chat. Here is the information that you will need:

• Email or Chat with Recreation.gov (They will respond to your email inquiry within 24 hours)

• Reservation Line:1-877-444-6777

• Recreation.gov Digital Help Center

If I misplace my permit, or lose it, can I print another copy?
Yes. Here are the instructions:

1. Login to your Recreation.gov account.

2. Click on your name in the upper right corner.

3. Click on the "My Reservations" from the list.

4. Find the correct permit and click "Reservation Details."

5. Click on "Print Permit."