Off-Road Vehicles Safety

Safety is the responsibility of every off-road vehicle user, as well as the collective effort of those who enforce and uphold the legislation. The Provincial Government recognizes the value of outdoor activities, and the use of off-road vehicles as a mode of transportation, but safety remains a priority.

It is the responsibility of all off-road vehicle operators to read, understand and follow the  Off-Road Vehicles Act and Regulations which were designed to improve off-road vehicle safety and provide safer experiences for off-road vehicle enthusiasts throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

What is an Off-Road Vehicle?

An off-road vehicle is defined as a wheeled or tracked motorized vehicle, designed or adapted for cross-country travel on land, water, ice, snow, marsh, swamp land or other natural terrain, and includes:

  • a motorized snow vehicle
  • an all-terrain vehicle, including a side-by-side
  • a mini-bike, dirt-bike and trail-bike
  • a miniature vehicle, such as a dune or sport buggy
  • an off-road maintenance machine
  • an amphibious vehicle

An off-road vehicle does not include agricultural equipment, infrastructure equipment, or a garden lawn mower, lawn tractor or golf cart.

Off-Road Vehicles Safety Training *NEW*

Effective October 15, 2024, off-road vehicles safety training is mandatory for:

  • operators under the age of 16
  • those registering an off-road vehicle for the first time
  • anyone convicted of an offence under the Act or Regulations, who has had their registration suspended or cancelled, and is required by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to complete it

Also, anyone who supervises the operation of an off-road vehicle, by a person under the age of 16 years of age, must ensure the person being supervised has received training.

Successful completion of the test requires a minimum score of 80% (at least 12 out of 15 questions must be answered correctly). Operators can attempt to redo the test immediately upon a failed attempt.

Once you successfully complete your test you download your certificate of completion. An operator who is required to complete the mandatory training will have to carry proof of completion while operating an off-road vehicle. Where requested by a peace officer, the operator will have to provide proof of completion within 2 business days after the request is made.

Training Exemptions:

  • All individuals who have currently or previously registered an off-road vehicle in this province are exempt from this training requirement.
  • The off-road vehicles safety training has been available via MyGovNL since May 24, 2024. If you have already successfully completed the safety training test you are not required to complete it again.

Although these exemptions exist, all operators are encouraged to complete the training and take the test for educational purposes to ensure safe operation of an off-road vehicle.

Take the Test

Take the test online at MyGovNL

  1. Download the Off-Road Vehicles Handbook.
  2. Take the test online at MyGovNL.

Age Requirements and Supervision

  • Anyone under age 16 must not operate an off-road vehicle with an engine size that exceeds the manufacturer’s recommendation for an operator of their age and weight.
  • Anyone under age 16 must be supervised by a licenced driver who is at least 18 years of age.
  • The supervisor must be able to see the operator, be seen by the operator, and provide immediate direction to the operator at all times.
  • The supervisor must ensure the operator uses the required safety equipment.

Fines and Penalties

  • Fines range from $100 to $2,500. A complete list of fines is available in the Schedule to the Off-Road Vehicles Act.
  • Fines are not differentiated by type of off-road vehicle.
  • A peace officer may seize an off-road vehicle if they believe it was used in the commission of an offence.
  • Only the Provincial Court judge hearing the charge may order the release of an off-road vehicle that has been seized under the regulations.

Traffic Rules

  • Operators are permitted to cross a highway where the operator has up to 150 meters of visibility in both directions.
  • Operators are also permitted to travel along the shoulder of the highway to access a trail, for a maximum distance of 1 km at a speed of no more than 20 km/hr.
  • Operators must yield the right-of-way to any vehicles on the highway at all times.

Registration and Insurance

  • Off-road vehicles must be registered. The registration does not expire and is valid for as long as you own your vehicle.
  • To register an off-road vehicle see: How To Register an Off-Road Vehicle and our Fees Policy.
  • You must have insurance if you cross or travel along a highway. Proof of insurance may be requested by law enforcement.
  • If you sell your off-road vehicle, you must notify Motor Registration within 10 days.

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