With its beautiful scenery, New Mexico certainly lends itself to outdoor activities. It's no wonder, then, that vehicles such as snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are widely popular in the state.

So, let's take a look a closer look at these vehicles.

Definitions

Let's begin by looking at how New Mexico legislators have defined the various categories.

An off-highway motor vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle designed by the manufacturer for operation exclusively off the highway or road. Included in this category are the following:

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

An ATV is defined as a motor vehicle 50 inches or less in width, having an unladen dry weight of 1,000 pounds or less, traveling on three or more low-pressure tires, having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator, and handlebar-type steering control.

Off-Highway Motorcycle

An off-highway motorcycle is defined as a motor vehicle traveling on not more than two tires, having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator, and a handlebar-type steering control.

Snowmobile

A snowmobile is defined as a motor vehicle designed for travel on snow or ice, steered and supported in whole or in part by skis, belts, cleats, runners, or low-pressure tires.

Registration and Titling

Off-highway motor vehicles need to be registered at a Motor Vehicle Division field office at a cost of $50. (See our registration sections for details on the process.)

Your registration will need to be renewed every two years.

Off-highway vehicles also need to be titled using the same process outline in our Title Transfers section.

Riding Requirements

If you're over 18, you're not required to have any special training or wear any specific items when driving these vehicles.

All riders under 18, however, must wear a helmet and eye gear protection. Those in this category must also have an off-highway motor vehicle safety permit from a state-approved organization.

Riders between the ages of 10 and 18 must have a parent, legal guardian, or a licensed driver over 18 supervising their riding. However, this doesn't apply if you're at least 13 and have a valid motorcycle license. Or, if you're at least 15 and have a valid driver's license, instructional permit, or provisional license.

Riders under 10 may only ride age-appropriate off-highway vehicles while being supervised by a parent, legal guardian, or a state-approved safety training instructor.

Additional Registration Information

By the way, if you're interested in information about boats, recreational vehicles, or custom-built vehicles, we have separate sections covering these vehicles.

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