ATV riding under new rules: where you can ride and the penalty for violation

In 2022, following amendments to the Law of the Republic of Belarus on Road Traffic, all-terrain vehicles, quad bikes, snowmobiles, and utility task vehicles (UTVs) were included in the category of wheeled tractors and self-propelled machines. This equipment is classified under category A (small-sized wheeled all-terrain vehicles (ATV quad bikes) of type I, categories G, S, and type II; snowmobiles; UTVs with automotive seating).

Operating a quad bike, all-terrain vehicle, snowmobile, or UTV
is now permitted:
- from the age of 17;
- with a valid medical certificate;
- with a tractor driver-machinist certificate of category A (which can be obtained from the state inspectorates for technical condition supervision of machinery and equipment of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food).

Due to the adjustments in the Law, changes have occurred in the Traffic Regulations. In accordance with the Traffic Regulations, small-sized wheeled all-terrain vehicles (ATV quad bikes) of type I, categories G, S, and type II, snowmobiles, and UTVs with automotive seating are permitted to participate in road traffic only on roads without improved surfaces (rural dirt roads, gravel roads).

Violation of the Traffic Regulations is subject to liability in accordance with current legislation:
- according to Part 5 of Article 18.18 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, a fine of up to 0.5 basic units, i.e., up to 20 Belarusian rubles (for driving on roads with improved surfaces);
- according to Part 4 of Article 18.30 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, a fine ranging from 0.2 to 1 basic unit, i.e., from 8 to 40 Belarusian rubles (for entering or exiting a public road with a vehicle, or driving animals across such a road in unauthorized or unprepared locations).