Can you drive your ATV, four-wheeler on Pennsylvania roads? Here’s what state law says
Riding all-terrain vehicles through Pennsylvania’s wilderness is a popular and sometimes dangerous pastime in the Keystone State.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, officials across the commonwealth recorded at least 204 fatal all-terrain vehicle (ATV) crashes between 2014 and 2023. A Centre County man became the latest casualty when he was killed Saturday in a crash in nearby Clearfield County.
Going off-roading presents inherent risks, but taking proper precautions and staying on the right paths can help keep you safe. Here’s a look at what Pennsylvania law says about where you can ride an ATV, how old drivers need to be and if registration is necessary.
Can you drive an ATV on the road in Pennsylvania?
According to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, it is generally against the law to drive ATVs, snowmobiles and other four-wheelers on streets and highways throughout the commonwealth.
“It is unlawful to operate a snowmobile or an ATV on any street or highway which is not designated and posted as snowmobile or ATV road by the governmental agency having jurisdiction,” the law reads.
However, there are a few exceptions. You can operate ATVs or snowmobiles during periods of emergency or when necessary to cross a bridge or culvert, according to the vehicle code.
ATVs can directly cross streets or highways so long as they comply with the following requirements:
- ATVs must cross at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place “where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.”
- ATVs must come to a complete stop before crossing the shoulder or main-traveled way of the highway.
- ATV drivers must yield the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic that may present an immediate hazard.
- When crossing a divided highway, ATV crossings must be made when the divided highway intersects another public street or highway.
Generally, ATVs and snowmobiles may be operated on streets and highways during special, limited-time events, according to the law. This is usually at the discretion of local authorities.
Additionally, it is unlawful to operate ATVs or snowmobiles on private property without the consent of the owners. It is also against the law to operate these vehicles on state-owned property that is not marked or previously designated as snowmobile or ATV routes.
All ATVs operated in Pennsylvania must be equipped with a proper brake system, a muffler in good condition and an operating headlight and tail light during dark conditions or when visibility is reduced. Helmets are required for all operators and passengers.
How old do you need to be to ride an ATV?
Pennsylvania prohibits children under the age of 16 from operating ATVs and other four-wheelers anywhere other than land owned or leased by their parents or guardians. However, exceptions are available if the child has a valid safety certificate or is under the direct supervision of a certified instructor at a training course.
Children younger than age 16 are also prohibited from driving ATVs across highways or connecting streets or operating ATVs on state forest or park roads unless they have a valid safety certificate and are under the direct supervision of an adult. Children younger than 16 are also barred from driving ATVs on state or local highways, roads or streets that are designated for joint use.
Under Pennsylvania law, children younger than 8 years old are not eligible for safety certifications and are prohibited from operating ATVs anywhere except on private property.
Do you need to register an ATV in Pennsylvania?
Yes. All ATVs operated in the state must be registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. However, exceptions are made for ATVs used solely for business or agricultural purposes, as well as ATVs owned by nonresidents that are properly registered in another state, province or county that honors Pennsylvania registration.
General registration costs $20 for two years, according to the DCNR. Limited registration, which does not require a fee, is available for ATVs used exclusively on the owner’s property.
Additionally, all ATVs in Pennsylvania must have a title issued by the DCNR. That process typically requires paying a $22.50 fee and providing information, including a completed application and proof of a vehicle identification number. Registered dealers should handle title and registration applications for you and provide you with a temporary 45-day registration sticker.
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