Do I Need a Driver’s Licence for an ATV in New Brunswick?
If you’re planning to ride an ATV in New Brunswick, one of the first questions you may have is:
“Do I need a driver’s licence to drive an ATV?”
The short answer is not necessarily.
ATV regulations in New Brunswick are different from the rules for driving a regular automobile on public roads. However, there are important requirements involving age, safety training, registration, insurance, helmets and where you operate the ATV.
If you’re visiting New Brunswick for an ATV vacation or planning a guided ATV tour, understanding these rules before you ride can help make your adventure safe, legal and enjoyable.
Important: This article is intended as general information about ATV regulations in New Brunswick. Regulations can change, and riders should always check the current provincial requirements before operating an ATV.
Do You Need a Regular Driver’s Licence to Ride an ATV in New Brunswick?
For most adult ATV riders, a regular motor vehicle driver’s licence is not the primary requirement for operating an ATV on New Brunswick’s managed off-road trail system.
Instead, New Brunswick’s Off-Road Vehicle Act establishes specific rules for ATV operation.
The province requires ATVs to be registered and insured, and ATVs using managed trails must have a valid trail pass. Operators and passengers must also wear approved helmets.
This means that simply having a Class 5 driver’s licence isn’t what makes an ATV legal to operate on an off-road trail.
However, there are important exceptions and additional requirements, particularly for younger riders.
What Are the ATV Rules in New Brunswick?
Before heading out on the trails, riders should understand several basic requirements.
ATVs must be registered
New Brunswick requires off-road vehicles to be registered.
ATVs must display a valid licence plate or decal in the required location, and operators should carry their current registration documentation.
All ATVs must be insured
ATVs operated on trails must have the required motor vehicle liability insurance.
New Brunswick states that ATV insurance must include the required accident benefits and third-party liability coverage, with minimum third-party liability insurance of $200,000.
You must wear a helmet
Both ATV operators and passengers are required to wear helmets.
This is especially important on guided tours because off-road terrain can change quickly. Rocks, roots, mud, water crossings and uneven ground can all create hazards.
Managed trails require a trail pass
If you’re riding on New Brunswick-managed ATV trails, you need the appropriate trail pass securely attached and clearly visible.
Don’t operate under the influence
Operating an ATV while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal.
An ATV may be an off-road vehicle, but that does not mean normal safety and impaired-driving laws can be ignored.
What If the Rider Is Under 16?
This is where the rules become particularly important.
New Brunswick law places specific restrictions on young ATV operators.
A person 14 or 15 years old may operate an ATV if they:
- Successfully complete an approved ATV safety training course
- Operate an ATV that is appropriate for their age under the regulations
- Are supervised and accompanied by someone who is at least 19 years old
- Remain within the clear view of the supervising adult
The supervising adult must also have successfully completed an approved ATV safety training course.
So if you’re travelling with teenagers, don’t assume that simply having an adult with them is enough.
The required safety training and vehicle restrictions also apply.
Can Children Under 14 Ride an ATV?
There are additional restrictions for younger riders.
New Brunswick regulations allow children in certain age groups to operate age-appropriate off-road vehicles in specific circumstances, including recreational-use closed courses.
For example, provincial regulations provide specific rules for riders from ages 6 to 13 on recreational-use closed courses, including approved safety training and adult supervision.
The size and type of ATV also matter.
Children should never simply be placed on an adult-sized ATV because an adult is nearby.
The vehicle must be appropriate for the rider’s age under the applicable regulations.
What About a Passenger on a Two-Up ATV?
If you’re riding a two-up ATV, the passenger also needs to follow the applicable safety requirements.
Most importantly:
The operator and passenger must wear helmets.
Passengers should also be able to safely reach the passenger footrests and maintain a secure position on the ATV.
For guided ATV tours, the tour operator should explain passenger procedures before the ride begins.
Do I Need a Driver’s Licence to Ride an ATV on Private Property?
This is an area where riders need to be careful.
ATV laws can depend on where the vehicle is being operated and which laws apply to that property or trail.
New Brunswick’s provincial rules specifically address off-road vehicle operation, including registration, insurance, age restrictions and recreational-use closed courses.
If you’re planning to ride on private land, you should make sure you have permission from the property owner and understand which provincial requirements still apply.
Don’t assume that private property automatically means “no rules.”
Can I Ride an ATV on a New Brunswick Highway?
Generally, an ATV isn’t something you can simply drive down a public highway like a car.
Off-road vehicles are subject to specific restrictions concerning highways and roadways.
If your route requires crossing or travelling along a roadway, make sure the route is legally permitted and follow all applicable signs and regulations.
This is one of the reasons guided ATV tours can be a great option for visitors.
Your guide can select an appropriate route and concentrate on navigating the trail system while you concentrate on enjoying the experience.
Do Tourists Need a Canadian Driver’s Licence to Ride an ATV?
If you’re visiting New Brunswick from another province, the United States or another country, don’t automatically assume you need a New Brunswick driver’s licence simply because you’re riding an ATV.
ATV operation is governed by New Brunswick’s off-road vehicle regulations, and requirements can differ from those associated with driving an automobile.
However, visitors should confirm that they meet the applicable requirements before riding.
If you’re booking a guided ATV experience, ask the operator what documentation and qualifications are required before arriving.
What Do I Need for an ATV Tour in New Brunswick?
If you’re booking an ATV tour, there are several things you should be prepared for.
Bring:
- Valid identification
- Appropriate clothing
- Sturdy boots
- Gloves
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Water
- Any required personal medications
- A positive attitude!
Your tour operator should explain the specific equipment and requirements before your adventure.
At Mud to Moose Trail Adventures, we provide the safety equipment required for our guided ATV experiences and provide a safety briefing before the tour.
Do I Need ATV Experience?
No.
You don’t necessarily need years of ATV experience to enjoy a guided ATV tour.
A guided experience can be a great introduction to ATV riding because you’ll receive instruction before heading onto the trails.
At Mud to Moose Trail Adventures, we take the time to explain the machines, controls, trail etiquette and safety procedures before the adventure begins.
Our goal isn’t simply to get you on an ATV.
It’s to make sure you understand how to operate it safely and feel comfortable before we head into the woods.
Is ATV Riding Difficult?
ATV riding can be surprisingly easy to learn, but that doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly.
A modern ATV typically has:
- Automatic transmission
- Four-wheel drive
- Electric start
- Power steering on many models
- Forward and reverse
- Modern suspension systems
However, the trail itself can be challenging.
You may encounter:
- Mud
- Rocks
- Roots
- Hills
- Water
- Ruts
- Narrow trails
- Uneven terrain
That’s what makes guided ATV riding so exciting.
You aren’t simply driving around a parking lot.
You’re exploring real New Brunswick wilderness.
Why Choose a Guided ATV Tour?
If you don’t own an ATV or don’t know the New Brunswick trail system, a guided tour can eliminate much of the uncertainty.
With a guided tour, you don’t have to worry about:
“Where does this trail go?”
“Is this the right route?”
“Can we make it through that mud hole?”
“Are we still on the legal trail?”
Your guide handles the route while you experience the adventure.
Experience New Brunswick’s Backcountry with Mud to Moose
At Mud to Moose Trail Adventures, we specialize in guided ATV and side-by-side adventures in New Brunswick.
Our tours take you away from the pavement and into the forest.
Depending on the tour and conditions, you can experience:
- New Brunswick forest trails
- Mud
- Water crossings
- Rocky terrain
- Wildlife habitat
- Scenic backcountry
- Plenty of adventure
We offer ATV and side-by-side experiences designed for visitors who want to experience a different side of New Brunswick.
Whether you’re travelling from across Canada, visiting from the United States or exploring New Brunswick on vacation, we’d love to show you the backcountry.
Ready to Ride?
You don’t need to own an ATV to experience New Brunswick’s trails.
You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars buying equipment.
And you don’t need to figure out the trail system yourself.
You just need to be ready for an adventure.
Come ride with us at Mud to Moose Trail Adventures.
Where the pavement ends, the adventure begins.
Book your New Brunswick ATV adventure today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driver’s licence to drive an ATV in New Brunswick?
A regular automobile driver’s licence is not the primary requirement for adult ATV operation on New Brunswick’s managed off-road trail system. Riders must comply with the province’s ATV and off-road vehicle requirements, including registration, insurance and trail-pass requirements where applicable.
Do I need ATV training in New Brunswick?
Operators under 16 are required to complete an approved ATV safety training course and follow specific supervision and vehicle requirements. Adults should also receive appropriate safety instruction before riding.
Can a 14-year-old drive an ATV in New Brunswick?
Yes, under specific conditions. A 14- or 15-year-old must complete an approved ATV safety course, operate an age-appropriate ATV and be supervised and accompanied by someone at least 19 years old who has completed the required training.
Does an ATV need insurance in New Brunswick?
Yes. ATVs operating on trails must have the required insurance. ATVs are generally required to be insured unless operated exclusively on property owned by the registered owner.
Does an ATV need to be registered in New Brunswick?
Yes. New Brunswick requires off-road vehicles, including ATVs, to be registered and to display the required plate or decal.
Do ATV passengers need helmets?
Yes. ATV operators and passengers must wear helmets.
Can tourists ride ATVs in New Brunswick?
Yes. Visitors can enjoy ATV experiences in New Brunswick as long as they comply with the applicable provincial laws, trail requirements, insurance requirements and the requirements of the ATV operator or tour company.
Can I rent an ATV in New Brunswick without a driver’s licence?
Whether you can rent or operate a particular ATV depends on the rental company’s requirements, the vehicle, where it will be operated and applicable regulations. Always confirm the requirements with the rental or tour operator before booking.
Is a guided ATV tour a good option for beginners?
Yes. Guided tours can be an excellent way for beginners to learn basic ATV operation while exploring established routes with an experienced guide.
Plan Your New Brunswick ATV Adventure
Want to experience the New Brunswick wilderness without worrying about finding the trails yourself?
Check out our New Brunswick ATV Tours and discover the backcountry with Mud to Moose Trail Adventures.
Book your adventure today.