Off-road vehicles
Types of off-road vehicles
To qualify as an off-road vehicle (ORV), a vehicle must be “mainly designed or adapted” for use on rough surfaces or unpaved or difficult-to-access terrain. A passenger vehicle temporarily modified for use in these areas cannot be considered an ORV. A motorized mobility aid (AMM) is not a ORV.
The types of vehicles considered to be ORVs, within the meaning of the Act respecting off-highway vehicles, are:
- snowmobiles
- quad bikes (ATVs or four-wheelers);
- utility task vehicles (side-by-side);
- all-terrain motorcycles, including motocross bikes;
- any other motorized vehicle primarily designed or adapted for use on uneven surfaces or unpaved or difficult-to-access terrain (surfaces consisting of snow, ice, earth, sand or gravel, as well as woodlands and other natural environments).
Examples of off-road vehicles

Quad bike with tracks

Quad bike with tires

Utility task vehicle (side-by-side)

Motocross

Trail snowmobile
Compliant equipment
An off-road vehicle (ORV) must be equipped to make sure you and other road users are safe. To learn more, see page Compulsory equipment for off-road vehicles.
See also
Last update: November 7, 2023