Categories for registering and licensing ATVs

1. No road use

ATVs that will never be used on any road (under the legal definition of road) don't have to be registered or licensed.

2. Exempt Class A (also known as 'EA')

ATVs registered in the EA class may be used on a public highway when moving from the owner's residence to a road that isn't a public highway, where the distance travelled doesn't exceed three kilometres; or in connection with the inspection, servicing or repair of the vehicle.

ATVs in this category are exempt from registration and licensing fees, but you must pay the ACC levy, as well as fees for the plates and licensing label. You need a driver licence to drive an EA class ATV on the road.

All vehicles used on the road are required to meet certain safety requirements. ATVs in the EA category aren't subject to warrant of fitness (WoF) inspections, but must be maintained in roadworthy condition.

3. Farm use

If you own an ATV in the 'farm use' category you must pay registration and licensing fees, but are exempt from the ACC levy.

'Farm use' ATVs may be driven along public highways in connection with the operation or management of a farm only when going from one farm to another that is owned and managed by the same person.

ATVs owned by farmers or farm managers are exempt from fuel excise duty under the provisions of the Transit NZ (Apportionment and Refund of Excise Duty) Regulations 1998. Please contact the Excise Officer, NZ Transport Agency, PO Box 1947, Palmerston North for more information about entitlements and claims for rebates.

You need a driver licence to drive a farm use ATV on the road.

All vehicles used on the road are required to meet certain safety requirements. ATVs in the farm use category aren't subject to warrant of fitness (WoF) inspections, but must be maintained in roadworthy condition.

4. Unrestricted private use

If you're going to use your ATV on public highways for greater distances than those described above, or for reasons other than those outlined above, your vehicle must display a 'G' licence label.

5. Unrestricted commercial use

ATVs that will be used to carry goods or passengers for a fee, or that will be hired out, fit into this category.

Licensing: To carry goods, you need to get a 'T' licence label. To carry passengers or hire out your ATV, you need an 'L' licence label. To carry passengers, your ATV must be equipped with approved passenger seats.

ATVs requiring an 'L' licence label are subject to certificate of fitness (CoF) inspections. They must be upgraded to meet all relevant CoF requirements and comply with applicable vehicle standards, unless a specific exemption is granted.

Transport service licence: If you are an individual or company using ATVs commercially, you must hold the appropriate transport service licence for the vehicle(s). To apply for a transport service licence, contact the nearest NZ Transport Agency office. All registration and licensing fees must be paid in full. (Read Factsheet 47, Transport service licences, for more information.)

OSH requirements: Some commercial operators (such as those hiring out ATVs for 'joyrides' or safari treks) must register with and meet the licensing requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Service of the Department of Labour. Contact your regional OSH office for more information.

Driver licence: You must hold an appropriate class of driver licence if you drive an ATV in this category.

Exemptions and safety plans: Commercial ATV operators may be granted exemptions from specific legal requirements. (Exemptions are granted on a case-by-case basis.) To apply for an exemption, submit an individual safety plan to a vehicle compliance officer at your nearest NZ Transport Agency office. If the plan is approved, an exemption may be granted.

If you operate amphibious ATVs and intend to use the machines over water, you must also have your safety plan approved by the Maritime Safety Authority.

A safety plan has a better chance of being approved if it includes a provision for wearing helmets.