In Russia, drivers are now allowed to operate ATVs and buggies with standard car licenses. The new rules came into effect on July 7, 2026 — previously, separate license categories were required for such vehicles. The corresponding law was signed by President Vladimir Putin.
The document introduced amendments to the federal laws "On Self-Propelled Machines and Other Types of Equipment" and "On Road Safety."
Now, drivers with B, C, and D category licenses will be able to operate buggies and ATVs. Previously, this required special AI and AII category licenses for operating tractors and other self-propelled machines.
However, the new rules do not apply to all cases. To operate AII category vehicles, a driver must be over 19 years old and have at least one year of driving experience.
The changes came into force under the general rule — ten days after the publication of the law.
Category B allows driving passenger cars weighing up to 3.5 tons. Category C is for cargo vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons with a trailer of up to 750 kg allowed mass. Category D allows driving buses designed for more than eight passenger seats, as well as towing a small trailer.