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Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to register their OHRV?
All OHRVs that are used off of the owner’s property must be registered. Motorcycles that are registered for highway use must also register as an OHRV if they are to be used off road. Conventional motor vehicles (cars and trucks) that are registered for highway use are not required to obtain an OHRV registration. Cars and trucks are not permitted on OHRV trails.

Where can I register?
Registrations can be made in person at more than 200 OHRV Registration agencies located throughout the state. Businesses that sell OHRV Registrations include OHRV sales and repair shops, sporting goods stores, country and general stores and some marinas. Registrations are also available by mail; call (603) 271-3422.

Do I need a driver’s license to operate an OHRV?
You cannot operate any OHRV if your driver’s license is under suspension or revocation in any state or Canadian Province. An OHRV Safety Education Certificate does not override a Motor Vehicle License Suspension. A valid motor vehicle or OHRV Safety Education Certificate is also required to cross a public way.

Can a child legally operate an OHRV?
Any operator 12 years of age and over must show proof of an approved safety education class or possess a valid motor vehicle driver's license. Any operator under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a licensed adult over the age of 18. Any operator under the age of 12 cannot cross roads. Any operator under the age of 18 cannot carry a passenger on a 3 or 4-wheel ATV. Any operator under the age of 18 must wear a helmet and eye protection. Any passenger under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
How can I find out about OHRV Safety Education Courses? You can call Fish and Game Headquarters at 603-271-3129 or visit www.wildlife.state.nh.us/OHRV/ohrv.htm.

Where can I ride?
More than 6,900 miles of snowmobile trails may be open in the winter to most types of snowmobiles and OHRVs. Landowner permission is required to operate on property of another. You can only ride on trails designated and signed for your type of vehicle. Snowmobile trails are only open during the winter months unless written landowner permission is obtained. The NH Bureau of Trails and the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association print statewide Snowmobile Trail maps. Local trail maps are printed and distributed by local clubs.

Can I ride on power lines and other utility company rights of way?
A majority of land on which the utility companies operate are private property. The companies obtain easements for their purposes only. Written landowner permission from each individual landowner must be obtained if the trail is not specifically designated for snowmobile use before you can operate your snowmobile.

How far can I ride down the road?
Snowmobile operation is prohibited on public roads unless specifically permitted and posted for snowmobile use. Examples of permitted uses are road crossings and trail connectors. In such areas the speed limit is 10 MPH and snowmobiles must stay to the extreme right side of the public way. They cannot operate from trailhead to trail head.

Is it illegal to operate while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs?
Operating a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. Nationwide, approximately 65% of OHRV fatal crashes involve an intoxicated operator. The same laws and penalties for operating motor vehicles while under the influence apply to snowmobiles to include implied consent, heft fines, jail time and loss of your driving privileges. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit for operating a snowmobile is similar to motor vehicle, .08%, or attempting to operate while impaired.

Is my New Hampshire Registration valid in other states?
As of this date, New Hampshire residents who are legally registered in New Hampshire may operate wheeled vehicles in Vermont. Your New Hampshire snowmobile registration is also valid in Vermont, but you must purchase a Non-Resident Trails Maintenance Assessment Pass and join the state association and local club. Some states and provinces require proof of insurance and payment of a trail use fee or club membership. When planning to ride in other states or provinces, call ahead for particulars and restrictions such as dates and available trails.

How can I find out about OHRV events and activities?
The New Hampshire Snowmobile Association is the umbrella organization that unites most of the snowmobile clubs in the state. You may automatically become an NHSA member by joining a local club. You will also receive their monthly publication that contains a listing of snowmobile related activities. Call 603-273-0220 or visit their website at www.nhsa.com for more information. Wheeled-vehicle users should visit the New Hampshire Off Highway Vehicle Association, NHOHVA, at www.nhohva.org

How can I learn more about OHRV laws?
Download the current New Hampshire Off-Highway Recreational Laws Digest* at www.wildlife.state.nh.us/OHRV/OHRV_laws.pdf (PDF, 58 KB)

Safety Facts

ALCOHOL and riding do not mix.
Many people believe in the myth that consuming alcohol can warm up a chilled person. While one may get the feeling of warming up, your body is actually cooling off faster. The alcohol opens the blood vessels and hides the feeling of being chilled by getting the warm blood close to the skin surface. It does nothing to increase body heat. While they may feel warmer, the alcohol can cool them down dangerously, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

New Hampshire has strict rules and regulations against operating an OHRV while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
While we are concerned about your safety, we must also consider the other rider. Alcohol increases fatigue, affects your fine and gross motor skills, affects your judgment and ability to make rational decisions thus making operating an OHRV dangerous. Remember if you must drink and ride, drink Pepsi.

RIDING a recreational vehicle has some inherent risks.
In the OHRV Safety Education Classes the children are taught that there are risks associated with riding an OHRV. The best way to avoid getting hurt or encountering problems is to manage the risks. Some examples of risk management are:

  • Wear Protective Clothing. The most important piece of protective clothing you can wear is an approved helmet. Make sure the helmet has been approved by either from Snell or DOT. If you have any questions about the condition of a used helmet, contact a competent dealer and ask their opinion.
  • Know your abilities to ride and do not exceed those levels.
  • Identify the capabilities of the machine you are riding and do not exceed those levels.
  • Always ride at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for the existing conditions. If you cannot control your machine you are riding too fast, no matter what the posted speed limit is.
  • Know the area you are riding in. Be aware of potential hazards such as washouts and other changing trail characteristics. Get a map of the trails and talk to local riders.
  • Always keep an open mind to learning. One is never too old to learn. Take a class, join a club and ride with a friend.
  • Use common sense when riding. Be prepared; carry a first aid and survival kit. Take along some spare plugs and tools that may not be in the machine’s tool kit.
  • Let someone know where you will be riding and when you plan on returning. If you run into problems these extra precautions can be time and lifesavers when needed most.