Time to think about Snowmobiles!!!

Does my Snowmobile require a registration in New York State?

You must register your snowmobile if you operate the snowmobile in New York State. A registration is not required if the snowmobile is operated on the private property of the owner or private property the owner has a contractual right to use. A snowmobile that is registered in another state and owned by a resident of that state, but is operated in NYS, must get a NYS registration. New York State also requires a registration on trailers.

Snowmobile registration numbers are permanently assigned to the snowmobile when it is first registered. If you have a snowmobile that was first registered before August 1995, you must supply the numbers that attach to your snowmobile. You must display those numbers on each side of the snowmobile hood. The numbers

1) must be: made from a reflective material
2) block style and 3 inches high or taller,
3) a color different from the hood and easy to see.
4) Be sure to include a hyphen or a space between the last number and the capital letters.

After August 1995, new snowmobile registrations receive a Registration Decal set. Attach the decals to each side of the hood. Validation stickers are issued annually. Put the stickers on the upper left-hand corner of the decal. Put the annual validation stickers to the left of the numbers on snowmobiles registered before 1995.

How do I register my snowmobile?

To register your snowmobile, bring the following items to a DMV office:

· A completed form MV-82SN (Snowmobile Registration Application).
· A completed form DTF-802 (Statement of Transaction for Sales Tax ) or proof of exemption or tax paid. (See the DMV Forms page for additional tax information and forms).
· Proof of ownership and bill of sale. Non-residents can use photocopies of proof of ownership and are not required to pay the NYS sales tax if the snowmobile is registered in another state.
· Proof of identity.
· Cash, check or credit card for the fee. Pay the registration fee of $45.
How do I renew my snowmobile registration?
You cannot renew a snowmobile registration on-line. Use your renewal notice to renew by mail. If you do not have a renewal notice, apply for the renewal with form MV-82SN or visit your local DMV office.

Are helmets required when on a snowmobile?

Yes. Since April 1, 1998, NYS requires each operator and passenger on a snowmobile to wear protective headgear approved by the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. You are not required to wear a helmet if:
· the snowmobile is operated on property where the operator or passenger is the property owner
· the snowmobile is operated on private property which the operator or passenger has a contractual right to use. This exemption does not apply if the owner or passenger is a member of a club or association and the owner does not receive compensation for snowmobile operation.

Some Insurance carriers offer the option of adding your snowmobile insurance to your homeowner policy. Contact your agent to see if this an option with your company.

Machines that exceed 650 cc will be considered a high performance machine by many carriers. Please be advised that not all companies will write a policy for this type of machine. Some companies will offer liability only coverage for older machines that do not require physical damage coverage. Most companies offer a discount for completion of a certified safety course or membership in a snowmobile association. Most companies can offer a multi vehicle discount if you have more than one machine.Youthful operators are usually required to complete a safety course if under the age of 16.