ATV Riding Laws – Maryland

In Maryland, off-road vehicles (ORVs) including ATVs are regulated by legislation under Title 8 of the Maryland statutes which cover the use of these vehicles on both public and private land. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has the authority to enforce the provisions of Title 8.

Registration and Licensing of ATVs

Under the law, all ORVs must be registered annually with the Department of Natural Resources (DONR). ATV owners will be issued with a registration certificate and a decal to be displayed at all times on the vehicle.

To be eligible for registration, the ATV driver must:

  • Hold a valid driver’s license, or in the case of the holder of a learner’s permit, they must be accompanied by a licensed driver.
  • Be older than 12 years, if a minor, and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with a driver’s license.

The registration and licensing of an ATV may not be transferred to another vehicle.

Rules and Regulations for Riding on Departmental Lands

Maryland law prescribes certain rules and regulations that ORV riders must follow. An ATV must have at least one headlight and one red tail light working in the hours of darkness. It must be fitted with a muffler or noise reduction device. All ATV riders must wear protective headgear as well as eye protection in the absence of a windscreen.

An ATV rider must not:

  • Drive in a reckless or negligent way
  • Disregard the safety of others or the rights of property owners
  • Drive while intoxicated
  • Cause damage to wildlife or natural resources
  • Obstruct the progress of other riders

The statute makes provision for the DONR to close trails or entire areas in the event that they consider the conditions to be too dangerous for riding. They may also affect closures to maintain roads and trails, conduct forest operations or to fight fires. Areas may also be closed during an official hunting season or for special events.

Accident Reporting

ATV drivers are required by law to report any accident to the DONR. A report must be made out and must include a full account of:

  • Personal details of all drivers involved and witnesses to the accident
  • Registration details of all vehicles
  • Weather conditions
  • Injuries or fatalities
  • Damage to property and wildlife

Safety Equipment Requirements

There are strict requirements for ATV riders to abide by to ensure the safety of all trail users and the public. Accordingly, all vehicles must have:

  • A fail-safe braking system that is reliable in all weather and trail conditions
  • An adequate noise reduction or muffling system
  • A spark arrestor approved by the U.S. Forestry Service
  • Headlights and tail lights that are fully operational in accordance with statutory requirements