Continuing in our series of articles analyzing the ATV laws in every state, which stemmed from this article, we are addressing the ATV laws in New Jersey in this article. It should also be noted that, while I am an attorney, I am not your attorney and am not giving legal advice. If you have questions, you should consult a local attorney.
Are you required to title and register your ATV or UTV in New Jersey?
You are required to register your ATV or UTV with a state motor vehicle agency if you want to ride in New Jersey on any public highways, lands, or
waters. However, you are not required to title your ATV or UTV in New Jersey.
To register your ATV or UTV, you must present proof of ownership in one of the following forms:
- If you purchased your ATV or UTV from a dealer, you will need to provide the dealer’s invoice specifying the date of purchase, make, model year, and serial number of the ATV or UTV, and a manufacturer’s statement of origin or a manufacturer’s certificate of origin; or
- If you purchased your ATV or UTV from an individual, or you are otherwise unable to provide a dealer invoice, you will need to provide the seller’s registration certificate, if applicable, and the manufacturer’s statement of origin or the manufacturer’s certificate of origin.
If the manufacturer’s statement or certificate of origin is unavailable, you can provide a notarized statement specifying from whom the ATV or UTV was purchased, the date of purchase, and the make, model year, and serial number. If the ATV or UTV was never registered, you will need a
notarized statement of ownership from the seller that details the length of time that the seller owned it and the reason it was never registered.
Are you required to insure your ATV or UTV in New Jersey?
You are required to maintain adequate insurance on your ATV or UTV in New Jersey.
Youth ATV and UTV requirements in New Jersey
The following restrictions and requirements are applicable to youth ATV and UTV riders in New Jersey:
- You must be at least 14 years old to operate an ATV in New Jersey.
- If you are under the age of 18, you must complete an approved safety course prior to operating an ATV or UTV in New Jersey.
- For riders aged 16 or under, the ATV or UTV must have an engine capacity of 90 cc or less.
Do you need a permit or license to operate an ATV or UTV in New Jersey?
A permit or driver’s license is not required for the operation of an ATV or UTV in New Jersey.
Safety Regulations
Any operator or passenger on an ATV or UTV in New Jersey is required to wear a helmet. Helmets of course are the most basic safety tool you can use for an ATV and are absolutely necessary. We recommend this really great helmet, in terms of both value and quality.
Can you ride an ATV or UTV on the road in New Jersey?
ATVs and UTVs are not permitted on the public streets of New Jersey. Rather, they are only permitted for off-road use.
Where can you ride ATVs and UTVs in New Jersey?
If you are riding on any private land in New Jersey, you must first obtain the written consent of the land owner.
Unfortunately, New Jersey just doesn’t permit ATV or UTV operation in most of the state. Legal use is mostly limited to private land a few designated riding areas where you can operate ATVs and UTVs. Some are privately owned and may have their own rules so be sure contact the location before you head out.
Mount Pleasant OHV Park
Mount Pleasant OHV Park is located at 2651 Petersburg Road in Woodbine. It is open on the weekends when weather permits and has free admission. This park is operated by the State of New Jersey and is open to ATVs, dirt bikes and snowmobiles. The park features a moto-cross style track and trails.
Validation of identification, current registration issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission and proof of insurance is required before you will be permitted to ride at this park. Non-residents must comply with the registration and licensing laws of their state or county of residence and conspicuously display the number issued by the state or county of residence.
Ready To Ride
Ready to Ride park is located at 2594 Tilten Rd. in Egg Harbor Township. The park is sponsored by the Egg Harbor Township Police Athletic League. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is open to riders aged 6 and older, but membership is required.
This park is a family friendly ATV, dirt bike and go-kart club. It features 30 acres of riding area that includes a half mile track for beginners, a 3 mile intermediate track, a 2 mile long advanced track, and a moto-cross track.
New Jersey Motocross Park Field of Dreams
New Jersey Motocross Park Field of Dreams is located at 1951 Buckshutem Road in Millville. It is open Wednesday through Friday from Noon-Dusk and Saturday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
This ATV Park is a privately owned park that is only open to members. This park focuses on advanced moto-cross tracks, but also as trails designed for beginners to use.
Old Bridge Township Raceway Park
Old Bridge Township Raceway Park is located at 230 Pension Road in English town. This park is a privately owned commercial park designed primarily for beginning riders. You must provide proof of insurance, or purchase annual insurance on site, prior to riding.