It is a criminal offense to use or operate a motor vehicle, boat, airplane, motorcycle, or other motor-propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner or other person authorized to give consent. This crime is generally known as (1) unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, (2) unauthorized use of a vehicle, or (3) joyriding.

The difference between this crime and the crime of theft is that the state does not have to prove a person charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle intended to keep the vehicle or permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle.

Laws regarding the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle vary from state to state and are generally found in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code or the vehicle code.

In Arkansas, the unauthorized use of a vehicle, commonly referred to as 'joyriding,' is addressed under Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-36-104. This statute makes it a criminal offense to use or exercise control over a motor vehicle, airplane, motorcycle, boat, or any other motor-propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner or an authorized person. Unlike theft, the state does not need to prove that the individual intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. The intent to temporarily use or control the vehicle is sufficient for this offense. The severity of the charge can vary based on the circumstances, but it is typically treated as a misdemeanor unless there are aggravating factors that could elevate the charge to a felony, such as prior convictions or causing significant damage to the vehicle.