Regulations
Can You Ride an ATV on the Road in Quebec?
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published July 8, 2026
Quick Answer
Can you ride an ATV on the road in Quebec?
In the vast majority of cases, no. ATVs can't be ridden on public roads in Quebec. The law allows it only in two situations: (1) crossing a public road where signage expressly permits it, and (2) specific exceptions granted by certain municipalities on defined stretches of road. Outside those cases, riding on public roads is prohibited and subject to fines.
It's one of the most common questions from new ATV owners in Quebec: can I ride my vehicle on the road? The short answer is: no, in the vast majority of cases. But as with most legal questions, the details matter.
This guide explains what Quebec's Off-Highway Vehicles Act actually says, the exceptions that apply, and the consequences of an infraction.
What Quebec Law Says
- The general rule: trails and private land only — Quebec's Off-Highway Vehicles Act (LVHR) clearly prohibits ATVs on public roads. ATVs are meant for the designated trails of the Fédération québécoise des clubs quads (FQCQ) and private land with the owner's authorization.
- The legal exceptions — The law provides for two kinds of exceptions. First, road crossings: an ATV can cross a public road perpendicularly where signage allows it. Second, municipal by-laws: some municipalities have obtained exemptions allowing ATVs on limited stretches of their local road network.
- Fines for violations — Illegally riding an ATV on a public road can result in fines of $300 to $600 for a first offence, plus fees. The vehicle can also be seized in certain cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the vast majority of cases, no. ATVs can't be ridden on public roads in Quebec. The law allows it only in two situations: (1) crossing a public road where signage expressly permits it, and (2) specific exceptions granted by certain municipalities on defined stretches of road. Outside those cases, riding on public roads is prohibited and subject to fines.
No. A road's width or traffic level doesn't change the rule. Only official signage or a municipal by-law can allow an ATV on a given road.
Some side-by-side models can be road-classified depending on their SAAQ category — see our side-by-side road classification guide. Check with your dealer or the SAAQ before buying.
Yes — since the reform of the Off-Highway Vehicles Act, a valid driver's license (even a learner's or probationary one) is required from age 18 to ride official trails. Riders aged 16 and 17 must also hold the ATV competency certificate. At least $1,000,000 in civil liability insurance is also mandatory for every ATV owner — see the SAAQ's website for the full detail.
Yes, similar. Snowmobiles can cross public roads where signage permits it, but generally can't be driven on them — see our snowmobile driving rules guide. The FCMQ and LVHR rules apply.
Contact your municipality directly, or check the FQCQ website for authorized trails in your area. See also our ATV and snowmobile registration guide.
Groupe Contant — Your Quebec Dealer
Have questions about ATV regulations in Quebec, or need to register your vehicle? Our Groupe Contant advisors know the rules and can help you through the process.