A quad bike is a vehicle and, like all such means of transport, it must always be kept in good condition with appropriate insurance covering all required documentation. However, this depends on the type of quad bike you own. Would you know how to tell them apart?
1. Quad bikes as motor vehicles
This category includes vehicles classified under category "06 00" - those with 4 wheels where the unladen mass cannot exceed 400kg or 550kg if designed for goods transport.
The registration process is the same as for a category B licence vehicle, meaning the rider will need this class of driving licence. In some cases, those holding a category A licence may also ride them, provided they meet relevant criteria.
These vehicles can be ridden at a maximum speed of 70 km/h (though sometimes lower), permitted on all types of roads provided the rider wears a protective helmet.
2. Quad bikes as special vehicles
The documentation required falls under Annex II "64 00", relating to automotive service machinery. With this vehicle type, you can perform specific services while holding a category B driving licence.
These quad bikes have a different registration plate from the previous type - white with red characters. They must not exceed 70 km/h and, as before, helmet use is mandatory.
Regarding road use, you can ride them on all types of roads except motorways and dual carriageways if travelling below 60 km/h. Like all special vehicles, they cannot have a maximum mass exceeding 3,500kg. 
3. Quad bikes as mopeds
The relevant document is "03 00", specifying characteristics of quad bikes (4-wheeled vehicles) with mass below 350kg, meaning they cannot exceed 45 km/h.
The registration matches that of a moped - a yellow plate with black characters arranged in three rows: beginning with letter C, followed by one number in the first row, three numbers in the second, and finally three letters.
You can ride them with a moped licence or with A-1, A or B licences. Maximum speed is 45 km/h and they're prohibited on motorways and dual carriageways.
| QUAD BIKES | CATEGORY | REGISTRATION | LICENCE |
| Motor vehicle | "06 00" | Similar to cars | Category B (or A*) |
| Special vehicle | Annex II "64 00" | White with red characters | Category B |
| Moped vehicle | "03 00" | Similar to mopeds: yellow, black characters in 3 rows | A-1, A and B licences |
All aforementioned quad bikes require an MOT test after the first four years of ownership. In all three cases, relevant taxes must be paid, either those related to the Special Tax on Certain Means of Transport or the Mechanical Traction Vehicle Tax.
As motor sports have become increasingly popular leisure activities in recent years, their use and documentation requirements have needed regulation. Without specific legislation, we must adhere to classifications for each vehicle group, and insurance is no exception. Third Party Liability Insurance is always mandatory, covering the policy holder for potential damages to third parties.
