DNR says 12 and over riders must take ATV/UTV safety course

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is stressing ATV and UTV riders practice safety as the Memorial Day Weekend approaches, followed by the rest of summer when Wisconsin trails fill up with riders.

Riders 12 years or older operating a UTV or ATV are required to complete a state DNR-approved safety education course and carry proof of certification while riding.

The department says Wisconsin continues to see a significant number of ATV/UTV crashes, with many operators never completing a safety course. Safety classes are designed to focus on crash prevention and give students proven, real-life skills to keep them safe while out riding.

The DNR adds that fatal crashes on state trails has increased each year since 2022, with 2025’s death toll doubling that of 2022.

So far, 2026 trail deaths are on pace to reach even higher than those 2025 numbers.

The DNR says helmets, or lack of them, have been a factor in every fatal crash so far this year.

Riders can register for Safety certifications by visiting the website dnr.wisconsin.gov.