All-Terrain Vehicles are an exciting experience optimized for use on dirt and off-roads. An ATV can be enjoyed by every experience level and age, and based on the features of the vehicle; it gets more intriguing. However, as an enthusiast looking to buy an ATV for leisure, you should first understand the legality, current safety laws, security measures, and rules that are in place for riding an All-Terrain Vehicle.
Just like any other motorized vehicle, ATVs can be challenging to control and can become unstable, if not operated properly. They can weigh as high as 600 pounds and can reach the maximum speed of 65 mph within seconds. In short, they can be dangerous to ride if proper precautions aren’t taken. ATVs are involved in many collisions. This is because they commonly tip over. These vehicles have a high center of gravity while there are no safety cages, roll bars, or seatbelts, making the riders easily susceptible to be thrown off the vehicle.
Considering all these aspects, it becomes important to determine whether you need a license to drive an ATV. With that in mind, we are going to discuss the factors to keep in mind to ride an ATV.
Let’s get started.
Who can Ride an ATV?
One of the most common questions people have about riding an ATV is who can actually drive it. Adults and Kids – both teens and older ones – can ride the All-Terrain Vehicles without a driver’s license. However, it greatly depends on where you live and what you plan to use the vehicle for.
While there are no federal regulations or age limits when it comes to the use of ATVs, you are likely to be required to complete a certification course for riding ATV. This is especially important if you are planning to use the vehicle as a part of your occupation or business, or if you are an instructor who will take participants on tour on ATV.
Having a certificate will ensure that you remain protected as an ATV driver for improper use of the ATV and also helps if the client files a lawsuit against you or the business.
Moreover, not all highways allow ATVs and not all types of ATVs are allowed on highways. For example, highways like 7000 series highways and 500-2899 series highways allow ATVs. On the other hand, highways that experience less traffic also allow ATVs to travel. So, if you are buying the ATV for the purpose of using it on the road, you are advised to check in with your current state laws or provisional laws in order to determine whether a license will be required.
There are certain guidelines in your state that you need to get acquainted with if you want to legally ride your ATV. These guidelines include:
- You have to complete the safety training course and have the certificate
- The drivers must be at least 12-16 years old
- Equip yourself with eye protection and helmet. In most states, it is mandatory for children to wear a helmet and eye protection when riding ATV
- Always ride during daytime
- Only use designated trails and ride at a safe speed
- It is important for the rider to know the fundamental first-aid practices
Do you need a license?
For All-Terrain Vehicles that are driven on highway or road, drivers must carry a G2 or M2 license. On the other hand, the drivers must be at least 16 years in age. The speed limit is 50 km/h but it depends on the road you are traveling on. Some roads only allow the maximum speed of 20 km/h. It is mandatory for the rider to wear a helmet when riding. And if the ATV comes equipped with a seatbelt, you must wear it.
For off-road driving, the driver’s age must be at least 12 years. The laws vary slightly in this case. For starters, there is no specific license required, but the rider must hold a copy of the registration permit. On the other hand, the passenger riding with the driver must be at least 8 years old and must wear a proper helmet.
Final Thoughts
It is important that you do everything within the law. Carry the necessary license, adhere to the state laws, safety measures, and age limits, and make sure that you have completed the ATV certification course before taking your vehicle out on the road.
