ATV Riding Laws – Connecticut

The state of Connecticut has strict rules and regulations guiding the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Anyone operating an all-terrain vehicle on public property has to have an Environmental Protection Commissioner safety training certificate. All riders younger than 18 have to complete the required safety education class before they can operate an ATV. Any rider younger than 12 is not allowed to drive an ATV on state land at any time.

Young adults are also not allowed to drive ATVs after dark and if they are between the ages of 12 and 15, they are only allowed to drive an ATV if they have completed safety training and are accompanied by an adult over 18 with safety training certification. The Department of Environmental Protection monitors all ATV use in the state.

ATVs in Connecticut are required to be registered unless it will be used on the owner’s private property. Out of state all-terrain vehicles are permitted in the state provided they are properly registered in the state of their residence. Any out of state vehicles cannot be delinquent in the taxes of their state of residence.

ATVs are not permitted on public roadways or highways unless they are driven by a licensed operator and then they can only be used to cross a public highway after coming to a complete stop. If the operator and owner is a minor (16 or 17), they must have permission from their parents and carry insurance in case of an accident. A rider under the age of 16 is not allowed to have an ATV registered in their name.

As with other states, Connecticut suggests that ATV operators should take a safety training course prior to driving the vehicle. Riders should also wear appropriate attire such as helmets, goggles, boots, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and gloves. Any rider that has taken the course and received a safety training certificate is free to ride on approved trails and areas permitted by law.

Owning an all-terrain vehicle is possible if riders and operators are willing to take the appropriate courses and register their vehicle every two years as required by law. Young adults should never operate their all-terrain vehicles after dark and if they are under the age of 12, they cannot ride on state property at any time. The best way to ensure trouble free riding and use of an all-terrain vehicle is to take the safety training course to make sure all the rules and regulations of use are completely understood.