Do You Need a Licence to Drive an ATV or SxS? Breaking Down What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Trails or Roads

Are you looking to purchase an ATV for hunting, trail riding, off-roading, or even farm work? If so, you might have questions about what you’ll need to operate your ATV legally. Though there is no such thing as an ATV licence in Ontario, you’ll still need to be aware of and abide by Provincial and Municipal laws when operating your ATV. Thankfully, learning how to operate your ATV legally is simple and straightforward.

At DeWildt Marine & Powersports, our family-owned business, has more than 20 years of experience, and we are committed to helping you find an ATV or SxS that perfectly suits your needs. In this post, we cover the basics of what you need to ride an ATV off and on roads and answer the question, do you need a licence to drive an ATV? Use this post to help you get started learning about ATV riding and contact a member of our team to find a Yamaha or Honda ATV for sale that you’ll love.

Do I Need a Licence to Drive an ATV or SXS?

If you are purchasing an ATV for the first time, you might wonder, do you need a licence to drive an ATV or SXS? The short answer is, no, you do not need a licence to drive an ATV, and an ATV licence is not something you need to have. However, there are times when a valid driver's licence may be required. In Ontario, the basics of what you’ll need to ride an ATV off-road include the following.

The driver must be at least 12 years of age unless under direct supervision of an adultA driver and passenger must wear an approved motorcycle helmet

- A driver must carry the registration permit for the ATV
- A driver cannot cross a highway unless they are 16 years of age and have a valid driver's licence.
- The ATV must be registered and have a rear licence plate where required
- The ATV must be insured under a motor vehicle liability policy

Do You Need a Driver’s Licence to Drive an ATV?

Can you drive an ATV without a driver’s licence? Yes, but only if you are operating the ATV or SXS off-road. When it comes to crossing a highway with an ATV, a driver will need to be at least 16 years of age and possess a G1, M1, or greater licence in Ontario. More is required to operate your ATV on roads. For on-road riding, you’ll need to ensure you follow the following regulations.

- The driver must be at least 16 years of age and have a valid driver's licence of G2, M2 or greater licence  in Ontario
- The driver must carry the registration permit for the ATV
- No passenger under the age of 8 may ride on roads
- Driver and passenger must wear an approved motorcycle helmet
- Drivers of side by sides (UTV) must wear a seat belt
- Passengers on ATVs must be able to reach and use footrests

When it comes to operating an ATV or UTV on roads, other requirements, such as having a licence plate and insurance, apply. Be certain that you know and are following all Provincial laws and Municipal by-laws when operating an ATV. It is your responsibility as a driver of an ATV to know and follow these rules.

Can You Drive an ATV with a Suspended Licence?

There are times when you will need a valid driver's licence to operate an ATV or SXS. If you are planning to drive your ATV on roads, your driver's licence will need to be valid. As such, you will not be able to operate an ATV with a suspended licence. Exceptions may be in place when a driver is operating their ATV on your own property.

Where Can I Buy an ATV for Use Both On and Off-Roads?

An ATV or a SXS can be used both on and off roads so long as all of the legal requirements to do so are met. When it comes to finding a Honda or Yamaha ATV for sale, the experts at DeWildt Marine & Powersports can help you find an option that perfectly suits your needs. Contact a member of our team today or apply for ATV financing online and let us help you find an ATV for farming, hunting, ice fishing, or off road riding and get the fun and function you need.