Is It Legal for Arizonans to Ride in the Bed of a Pickup Truck?

The feel of freedom with the breezes blowing through your hair. What could be more Arizona than that? Is there anything better than riding along in the back of a pickup truck, especially on a sweet summer day?

So, here's the question: is it legal to ride in the bed of a pickup truck in Arizona? The answer is yes, it's legal. And it's also, no.

It depends just on who and where - you are.

It's always best to consult the law of the Arizona land before climbing aboard for a ride, if you're unsure, no matter what vehicle you plan to travel in.

Riding Down the Highway

Riding in the back of a pickup truck on any highway is a big NOPE - with a few exceptions.

Arizona Revised Statutes §28-893, states that it is illegal for anyone to ride in the bed of a pickup truck or flatbed truck on highways, unless they meet one of the following:

• They are an employee engaged in agricultural activities
• They are riding in a parade
• They are riding in an emergency situation
• They are riding in a vehicle designed for passengers

However, this law only applies to highways, which are defined as roads that have at least two lanes for traffic moving in the same direction and are designated by the state highway commission.

So, if you are on a local road or a street, you can legally ride in the bed of a truck.

What About Kids?

Chelle Law says, "Arizona enforces a primary child passenger restraint system law, which requires children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4’9″ to be securely fastened in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat."

Since this is a rule for all types of vehicles, even pickup trucks, children are not allowed to ride in the bed of a pickup truck, since there are no restraints.

How About My Dog?

So, what about your dog? Can he legally experience the wind in his fur in the back of your pickup?

It turns out, Arizona doesn't have any specific laws prohibiting animals from riding in truck beds. But it's not necessarily safe or a good idea. 

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that all pets who travel in the bed of your truck are safely secured. That means putting them in a well-ventilated, secure kennel or securing them with a lead.

This can help prevent your dogs, llamas, pigs, or goats from falling out, jumping out, or getting injured by flying objects. Let you pets ride, but make sure they're riding safely.