An ATV is classified as an Off Highway Vehicle (OHV).
It is in the same section of the Alberta Traffic Safety Act as snowmobiles and trail bikes.
Can You Drive an ATV on the Road in Alberta?
No, you can NOT drive an ATV on the road in Alberta. In fact, you can not drive in the ditches along the roads either.
There are rare exceptions. The following quote from the Alberta Traffic Safety Act pretty much sums up everything you need to know:
“Prohibited Operation: An off-highway vehicle may not be operated on any highway, road or ditch unless permission has been expressly granted. In the case of a provincial highway, the Minister may by “order” or “permit” authorize such vehicles along any portion of a highway (Traffic Safety Act, Section 120(4)(a)(i) & (ii)). In the case of a municipality, the council of a municipality may, through bylaw, authorize such vehicles along any portion of a highway (Traffic Safety Act, Section 120(4)(b)).
Alberta Traffic Safety Act
Note: Definition of “highway” includes the ditches alongside the roadway.”
Can You Drive an ATV Across a Road or Highway?
Yes you can cross a road, highway, walkway etc. with your ATV or other off highway vehicle. As long as the following criteria is met:
- Driver must completely stop.
- All passengers have to get off.
- Remove all vehicles and things attached to it.
- Driver must always yield to vehicles and people on the roadway, highway, walkway etc.
- Driver must take the most direct route possible to complete the crossing.
It should be noted that you do not require a license to make any crossing described above. This leads to the next question:
Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV in Alberta?
You do not need a license to drive an ATV or other off highway vehicle in Alberta. The only exception is when you are driving on a road or highway legally. Refer to the quote above for exceptions.
How Old do You Have to be to Drive an ATV in Alberta?
14 years old is the minimum age to drive an ATV on public lands and highways where permitted. If under 14, you must have someone at least 18 years old on the same ATV or very close by. There is no age requirement to drive an ATV on private land.
In Summary
- You can not legally drive an ATV on public roads and highways in Alberta.
- The off-highway vehicle laws are very relaxed in Alberta when it comes to private property. When you leave private land, make sure you’re aware of all the local laws and restrictions.
- Keep this in mind if you are planning on doing any top speed tests and demonstrations.
- This has been a general overview.
