The term off-road refers to a driving surface which is not conventionally paved. This is a rough surface, often created naturally, such as sand, gravel, a river, mud, snow and others. These terrains can sometimes only be travelled on by vehicles designed for off-road driving (such as SUVs, ATVs, snowmobiles or mountain bicycles) or vehicles that have off-road equipment.

In some countries, off-road activity may be prohibited in many areas and even where allowed, may require special permits or licenses.