Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

Posted By: Mike Kunert
Post Date: 04/16/2019

ATVs are a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and zip through bumpy terrain. While ATVs are a breeze to drive, Wisconsin state law does place restrictions on ATV operators. To avoid a costly citation, you should familiarize yourself with Wisconsin’s ATV laws.

Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

If you are 16 years old or born in 1988 or any year after, then Wisconsin requires you possess a valid ATV safety certificate before driving an ATV. When operating an ATV in a public area, state law mandates that you keep proof of certification on your person.   

How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

On private lands, there is no age requirement for ATV use. However, a person under the age of 16 can only ride an ATV under adult supervision.

In public areas, you must be 16 years of age or older with a valid ATV safety certificate to drive an ATV.

Are ATVs Street Legal in Wisconsin?

Unless you qualify for an agricultural use exemption or you are on an officially titled ATV route, it is illegal to drive your ATV on the street.

When driving an ATV on a public roadway legally, you must keep your headlights on, keep to the far right side of the driving surface, and maintain a single file line with all other ATV traffic.

Children aged 12-15 years old with a valid ATV safety certificate must always be accompanied by an adult when driving on a public roadway.

Wisconsin ATV Laws 2019

A non-exhaustive list of Miscellaneous ATV laws:

1. If you are within 100 feet of a pedestrian, you must slow your ATV to 10 mph or less.  

2. If you are within 150 feet of a private residence, you must slow your ATV to 15 mph or less.

3. If you are driving your ATV in a manner perceived to be reckless, law enforcement can cite you.

4. You are not allowed to operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

5. If law enforcement requests that you present your ATV safety certificate, you are required to do so.

It is easy to abide by Wisconsin’s ATV laws, and failing to do so can result in costly citations. When enjoying your ATV, drive responsibly and keep state regulations in mind.

*This article is not intended as legal advice. Be sure to check current state regulations before making any decisions.

mike kunert
Mike Kunert is the general manager of Powersports Company. He is very passionate about the powersports and outdoor equipment industry. He does everything from sales to service at the store. With 23+ years in the powersports/outdoor equipment industry and many OEM factory certifications, he has a lot of knowledge about the industry.

 

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Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

Posted By: Mike Kunert
Post Date: 04/16/2019

ATVs are a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and zip through bumpy terrain. While ATVs are a breeze to drive, Wisconsin state law does place restrictions on ATV operators. To avoid a costly citation, you should familiarize yourself with Wisconsin’s ATV laws.

Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

If you are 16 years old or born in 1988 or any year after, then Wisconsin requires you possess a valid ATV safety certificate before driving an ATV. When operating an ATV in a public area, state law mandates that you keep proof of certification on your person.   

How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive an ATV in Wisconsin?

On private lands, there is no age requirement for ATV use. However, a person under the age of 16 can only ride an ATV under adult supervision.

In public areas, you must be 16 years of age or older with a valid ATV safety certificate to drive an ATV.

Are ATVs Street Legal in Wisconsin?

Unless you qualify for an agricultural use exemption or you are on an officially titled ATV route, it is illegal to drive your ATV on the street.

When driving an ATV on a public roadway legally, you must keep your headlights on, keep to the far right side of the driving surface, and maintain a single file line with all other ATV traffic.

Children aged 12-15 years old with a valid ATV safety certificate must always be accompanied by an adult when driving on a public roadway.

Wisconsin ATV Laws 2019

A non-exhaustive list of Miscellaneous ATV laws:

1. If you are within 100 feet of a pedestrian, you must slow your ATV to 10 mph or less.  

2. If you are within 150 feet of a private residence, you must slow your ATV to 15 mph or less.

3. If you are driving your ATV in a manner perceived to be reckless, law enforcement can cite you.

4. You are not allowed to operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

5. If law enforcement requests that you present your ATV safety certificate, you are required to do so.

It is easy to abide by Wisconsin’s ATV laws, and failing to do so can result in costly citations. When enjoying your ATV, drive responsibly and keep state regulations in mind.

*This article is not intended as legal advice. Be sure to check current state regulations before making any decisions.

mike kunert
Mike Kunert is the general manager of Powersports Company. He is very passionate about the powersports and outdoor equipment industry. He does everything from sales to service at the store. With 23+ years in the powersports/outdoor equipment industry and many OEM factory certifications, he has a lot of knowledge about the industry.

 

« Return To The List