While operating a snowmobile, the same rules of the road and penalties apply as for driving a car, including possible fines, loss of driver's license, criminal record and/or imprisonment.
Ontario requires the mandatory use of CSA approved safety helmets while operating or riding a snowmobiling.
All Ontario residents must register their motorized snow vehicles (MSV) with the Ministry of Transportation, display the registration numbers and show proof of insurance.
All non-residents must produce evidence of insurance and registration or bill of sale and comply with Ontario's snowmobile regulations.
Non-Ontario residents who are not compelled to insure their snowmobile in their own state must be covered while in Ontario. They may do so through their car insurance.
All Ontario residents must display a current validation of their MSV.
Both resident and non resident drivers must be at least 12 years old and hold a motorized snow vehicle operator's license. Those
16 and over can use a valid driver's license.
The Trail Permit is valid only when permanently affixed in the approved areas such that it is fully visible to a person standing 10 meters in front of the machine on its centerline. The best place is on the bottom part of the windshield.
The maximum legal speed limit on Ontario trails is 50 kilometres per hour (35mph)
In Summary; to snowmobile legally in Ontario, you must have:
- A valid driver's license;
- Proof of snowmobile ownership;
- Registration;
- Insurance; and
- Helmets.