Snowmobile Safety

Snowmobile Safety

You must be 12 years of age to have a valid snowmobile safety certificate. Anyone ages 11 through 15 may take the course (View Courses).

Before you head out:

Before you head there here are a few things to watch out for when you're out in the snow.

  • Always be alert of potential danger. Your helmet and engine noise can impair your hearing.
  • It is hard to see during snow fall and night driving. Don't assume what someone else will do.
  • Make sure you and your riders are safe. Expect the unexpected!

Watch out for:

  • Grooming equipment
  • Oncoming snowmobiles
  • Unforeseen obstacles under the snow
  • Blind driveways, corners, intersections and stops
  • Road and Railway crossings
  • Heavy equipment such as tractors, snowplows, and trucks
  • Snow banks, drifts, and ditches
  • Trees, branches, power poles on the trails
  • Bridges
  • Wildlife and domestic animals
  • Other trail users (skiers, hikers)
  • Thin ice, avoid lakes and rivers if possible
  • Night riding, becoming disoriented or lost
  • Hypothermia- Wear warm clothing, polypropylene, thermal underwear, wool, wind proof outer garments
  • Avoid cotton and sweat shirts. They retain water and won't keep you warm
  • Snow blindness, wear proper eye protection
  • Frostbite- wear liners in your boots and mitts

View more information on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources snowmobile safety training page.