Wisconsin DNR is urging ATV and UTV riders to complete safety training ahead of summer and review new 2026 riding regulations across the state.
3 Things to Know
- Wisconsin ATV/UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, must complete a DNR-approved safety course to legally ride on public trails and routes.
- The DNR says many ATV/UTV crash victims never completed a safety class.
- New regulations for 2026 include mandatory seatbelt use in UTVs and new restrictions on towing and window tinting.
As ATV and UTV season ramps up across Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging riders to complete safety training before heading out on trails this summer.
The DNR issued a reminder Friday that ATV/UTV operators at least 12 years old and born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, are required to complete a state-approved safety education course and carry proof of certification while riding on public trails, routes and some private lands.
“Wisconsin continues to see a significant number of ATV/UTV crashes with many operators never completing a safety course,” said Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator. “Safety classes are designed to focus on crash prevention and give students proven, real-life skills to keep them safe while out riding.”
The agency strongly recommends all operators, regardless of age or experience level, take a refresher course to sharpen riding skills and review updated safety practices.
ATV Safety Classes Available Online And In Person
The DNR offers both online and in-person ATV/UTV safety courses. Officials said in-person classes can fill quickly ahead of the busy summer riding season.
According to the DNR:
- Many in-person courses are completed in one weekend
- Classes are geared toward riders ages 11 and older
- Parents are encouraged to attend classes with younger riders
“Think of your safety class certificate as your driver’s license for an ATV/UTV, a must-have for safer operation,” Holsclaw said.
The DNR noted that completing a safety course should be viewed alongside other key safety habits, including wearing helmets and using seatbelts.
New Wisconsin ATV and UTV Regulations For 2026
The DNR also highlighted several updated ATV/UTV regulations riders should be aware of this season.
New rules include:
- All UTV operators and passengers are now required to wear seatbelts
- Riders who intentionally damage trails or property with an ATV or UTV could face penalties up to three times the repair cost
- ATV and UTV operators may not tow objects carrying people on trails or routes
- Towing people on ice is now limited to speeds of 10 mph
- UTVs now face additional window tint restrictions
The DNR said a new regulations pamphlet outlining additional updates will be released soon.
Where To Register
Riders can register for classes and review Wisconsin ATV/UTV regulations through the DNR’s official safety education website.
For more information or to sign up for a class, visit the Wisconsin DNR ATV/UTV Safety Education page.
Check our Forecast Page for riding conditions. Feature Image Photo by Tony Litvyak
