To register an ATV, you must provide proof of who you are. You must provide proof of identity, date of birth, and at least six points of proof of name. For the most recent listing of acceptable documents see Proofs of Identity For Registration and Title (PDF) (ID-82).
Registering a Vehicle if You are Out-of-State You can apply for a New York State registration and a title certificate by mail from outside of New York. You will need to mail these items to a local DMV office. Allow 6 weeks for your registration documents to arrive by mail.
Because ATVs do not meet the safety standards of cars and do not have airbags, turn signals, or other forms of protection, you cannot ride them on roadways in New York City. You also cannot ride an ATV on a road anywhere in the state unless that road has specifically been designated for ATV use.
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is usually made for one rider to go off-roading. A utility task vehicle (UTV) is a larger type of ATV designed to haul heavier loads and perhaps allow additional passengers.
This law, known as Senate Bill S2702, became effective in February 2024. The law also raised the minimum age for supervisors of young riders on public lands from 16 to 18. Now, any ATV operator under 16 must be under the supervision of someone over 18, who must also possess an ATV safety certificate.
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Preserves: On State lands classified as Wild Forest, ATVs are allowed only on public motor vehicle roads, under certain circumstances (as defined in other policy criteria).
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is defined as a motorized off-highway vehicle designed to travel on four low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires, having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control.
Ready? Have with you: A completed Vehicle Registration / Title Application (MV-82) Proof you own the vehicle. Proof of your identity and age. Proof you have NY automobile liability insurance. Payment for fees and taxes, or proof of payment or exemption.
You may not operate an ATV on a highway unless it has been designated and posted for ATV use by the state or local authority. Usually, only the part of a highway between two off-highway trails will be posted for ATV use.