Snowmobile safety training required if you were born after Dec. 31, 1976

With snow finally in the air, folks are getting ready to ride their snowmobiles. What training is required to legally operate a snowmobile?

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Minnesota law requires anyone born after Dec. 31, 1976 to take a safety-training course before operating a snowmobile on public lands or waters. For those 11 years old and older, there are two options. A classroom course consisting of multiple sessions followed by a hands-on riding course, or an online course that then requires a hands-on ride/ review day.

For those 16 years old and older, there is an independent study online course where students can complete their certification training at home. Once they have successfully completed their courses, students are given instructions on how to receive a certificate from the DNR. Both courses show students the most common causes of snowmobile accidents in Minnesota, and how to avoid them.

Volunteers teach classes across the state. Information regarding snowmobile certification classes can be found on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/safety/vehicle/ snowmobile.