The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is reminding riders to register their snowmobiles ahead of the upcoming winter as snowmobile registrations must be renewed annually. DMV allows snowmobilers to renew registrations online on the DMV website, by mail or in person at a DMV office.  

“I’m optimistic this will be a fun winter for snowmobilers and other outdoor enthusiasts in New York,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “So, before the snow flies, remember your snowmobile registration must be renewed every year. DMV is here to help customers get registered and ready for the trails.”  

All snowmobiles operated in New York State must be registered and marked with a valid sticker. Riders who complete a registration online can print a temporary certificate, which is valid for 15 days. DMV generates a permanent registration card and mails it to the recipient along with their sticker. There is no added charge for the temporary certificate.

Find information about registering a snowmobile in New York State on the DMV’s website.

With more than 10,500 miles in the Statewide Snowmobile Trail System, New York is a wonderland for snowmobilers as New York’s snowmobile trails traverse 46 counties and are maintained by more than 230 clubs. Members of the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA), or a local NYSSA-affiliated snowmobile club, receive a $55 discount on snowmobile registrations. See more information at the NYSSA website.

Revenue from snowmobile registrations helps to develop and maintain the state’s vast trail network, with grants administered through 52 municipal sponsors. The network is made up of lands under the jurisdiction of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), NYS Canal Corporation, national forest land, local governments, and many private landowners who have increasingly opened their property to snowmobiling with insurance coverage provided by the state snowmobile program.

In addition to trail maintenance, registration fees support the state’s Safety Education programs for young riders and promote the sport to bolster snowmobile tourism and local economies.

“Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity, and DEC encourages all who enjoy New York’s trails during the winter season to head out with safety in mind. Whether sharing trails with others on State lands or riding on private lands with approval, riders should do so responsibly, prepare for winter conditions, and ensure snowmobiles are registered and in good working condition before heading out,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “DEC also encourages riders to take a snowmobile education course to learn or refresh on the basics – stay on the trail, wear a helmet, don’t drive impaired, and have a good time.”

New York State is a leader in snowmobile education, offering operator training courses for snowmobilers ages 10 and up. Taught by experienced snowmobilers who volunteer their time, the courses provide information that all snowmobilers should know to ensure the safety of riders and other trail users. Snowmobilers who successfully complete the course receive a NYS Snowmobile Safety Certificate. For more information, visit the NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation website.

OPRHP Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “Registering your snowmobile is vital to maintaining thousands of miles of trails across New York and keeping people safe. We are thankful for our partnership with DMV in managing a successful snowmobile program, statewide snowmobile clubs offering opportunities at all levels and wish snowmobile riders a safe and enjoyable riding experience as soon as the snow falls.”

Snowmobilers from outside the state who wish to ride in New York State can register a snowmobile if it is already registered in their home state. They can use the NYS Registration for Out-of-State Snowmobile service to get the 15-day registration and operate their snowmobile here immediately. DMV will send a permanent registration in the mail.

Snowmobilers must always carry registration and proof of insurance documents while snowmobiling. Riders must produce the documents at the request of any law enforcement officer or magistrate. Riders also must produce insurance documentation at the request of anyone who is injured or suffers property damage as a result of operating a snowmobile. Holders of snowmobile safety certificates must carry the certificate when they are snowmobiling.

DMV also reminds snowmobilers it is illegal to operate a snowmobile while impaired by drugs or alcohol, and drivers and passengers must wear helmets on the state snowmobile trail system.

Contact a local club or tourism department for trail status and trail conditions. For more information on the New York Snowmobile Trail System and tips for operation, visit NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.