Can You Legally Ride in the Bed of a Pick-Up Truck in Arizona?

I still remember riding in the back of my uncle’s pickup on a summer afternoon. Uncle John had a farm, and we never gave a second thought to things like safety or whether it was legal to ride in the truck bed. As it turns out, the rules today are a lot more specific than they were back then.

Is It Legal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck in Arizona?

In Arizona, riding in the bed of a truck isn’t necessarily illegal, but it depends on how old you are. The law sets age‑based restrictions and conditions for when riding in a truck bed is allowed. Arizona Revised Statutes A.R.S. § 28‑893 limits riding in parts of a vehicle not designed for passengers.

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Ride in the Bed of a Pick Up Truck?

• Under 13: In Arizona counties with populations over 800,000, it is illegal to transport a child under 13 in a truck bed on a highway under A.R.S. § 28‑913(A). The law has exceptions for emergencies, enclosed campers, parades, private property, or speeds under 35 mph.
• Under 16: Children under 16 generally cannot ride in a truck bed without proper restraints, aligning with Arizona’s child passenger safety rules.
• 16 and Older: People 16 and over are legally allowed to ride in a truck bed on public roads, and safety restraints are not required.

Related: Where To Safely Nap While Driving In Arizona

What Are the Penalties for Underage Passengers in the Bed of a Pickup Truck?

What happens if you violate one of the rules outlined above? Violations of these statutes are typically treated as civil traffic offenses. If you’re caught, you could be fined between $50 and $250. Oh, and there are higher penalties if minors are involved. If you’re the driver, you could even have points added to your driver’s license.

Unlike those days on Uncle John’s farm, riding in the bed of a pickup truck can raise safety concerns and get you into trouble, so it’s always good to know the law before you risk it.