How to Register ATVs

Register your ATV before you operate it to abide by state law.

ATV stands for All Terrain Vehicle. ATVs are vehicles that contain a seat that is straddled by the driver and ride on low pressure tires. ATVs are also called quad bikes, three wheelers and four wheelers and usually have a handlebar for steering while riding to maintain balance. Even though All Terrain Vehicles are not operated on streets, some states require these vehicles to be registered with either the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Transportation (DOT) or the Department of Wildlife (DOW), before they can be operated.

Instructions

ATV Registration

1. Complete the registration form for All Terrain Vehicles. Contact your local DMV, DOT, or DOW to obtain a copy of this form. Some states have forms that you fill out and submit on-line. Visit your state's registering department on-line to find out if they provide Internet registration.

2. Bring the completed registration form along with your bill of sale from either the dealer or seller to your local DOT, DOW or DMV. The bill of sale must include the buyer information, purchase price and sales tax if applicable. It must also include the ATV information such as year, make, body and style as well as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If purchased from a dealer, you may be required to provide a Certificate of Origin. Ask your dealer for a copy.

3. Provide your government issued photo identification card to the registering agent at the time of registration.

4. Pay the registration fee, Clean Air Act fee and sales tax if applicable. Check with your registering agent to determine the forms of payment accepted.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states do not require ATV registration if the ATV will only be driven on privately owned property. Check with your local state agency to determine if registration is required.

• Some states do not require as much documentation and some may require a little more. Always double check with your state's registration office for complete details.

References

• Connecticut DMV: Vehicle Registration: All Terrain Vehicles
• Maine: Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife: ATV & Snowmobile Registration Online Service