Ask The Editors: Can 3-Wheelers Be Registered?
Actually the ability to register an ATV in NY has less to do with the number of wheels and all to do with documentation included.
The NYS DMV defines an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) as any self-propelled vehicle, include an off-road motorcycle, that is manufactured for use on off-road trails or in off-road competitions. These vehicles are less than 70 inches wide and weigh less than 1,000 pounds.
To register an ATV not purchased from a NYS ATV dealer, bring the following items to a DMV office
acceptable proof of ownership
a completed Registration / Title Application (MV-82)
proof that the NYS sales tax was paid or proof of the purchase price of the ATV
proof of identity
cash, check, money order or credit/debit card to pay for fees
What are acceptable proofs of ownership?
If you purchase the ATV from an out-of-state ATV dealer, acceptable proof of ownership can be a manufacturer’s certificate of origin or a manufacturer’s statement of origin, and the bill of sale from the dealer the registration or the title certificate signed by the previous owner that transfers the ownership to the dealer, and a bill of sale from the dealer that transfers the ownership to you.
A bill of sale from an ATV dealer must include the name and the address of the dealer and the registration number of the dealer your name and your address the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the ATV the year, the make, the model, and the number of wheels of the ATV an indication that the ATV is either used or new an indication that the dealer collected the correct NYS sales tax. If the ATV is transferred by a private individual, acceptable proof of ownership is a New York State or out-of-state transferable registration or title certificate signed by the previous owner to transfer ownership to you.
If the current owner did not register the ATV, a transferrable registration and bill of sale that transferred ownership to the current owner, and a bill of sale that transfers ownership to you.
Do I need insurance coverage for my ATV?
You don’t need insurance to register your ATV. However, you must have insurance unless you drive your ATV on private property. You must show your proof of insurance to a judge, a police officer, or any person who makes a claim of injury or property damage.
Do I need a driver license to drive an ATV?
You do not need a driver license to drive an ATV, but restrictions apply to ATV drivers under the age of 16
Children 10 to 15 years of age can drive an ATV only with adult supervision
Without adult supervision on property where their parent or guardian is the owner or tenant
Without adult supervision on property where ATV use is permitted and the child completed an ATV safety-training course approved by the DMV (carry your course certificate with you when you drive)
Children under the age of 10 may drive an ATV only with adult supervision
Without adult supervision on property where their parent or guardian is the owner or tenant
You can operate an ATV on public lands where signs indicate that ATV use is allowed
Only operate an ATV on private property if you have permission from the property owner
