ATV Safety Instructor Manual
ATV Course: Part One
Welcome to the ATV Safety Training Course. This manual, used in conjunction with the
Volunteer Instructor Procedures Manual (VIP), will provide you with the information you
will need to make your classroom and field training sessions successful. You will be
teaching students who have already studied ATV basics by completing an independent
study CD program or who have successfully completed the old home study course.
ATV Course: Part Two
The second part of the ATV Safety Training Course has two components: a classroom
session and a field training session. The classroom portion of the training consists of
a review of basic ATV skills, Minnesota regulations, acceptable operator actions, and a
written examination.
The field portion of the training consists of ATV familiarization, basic riding skills, and
environmental concerns. Students also must demonstrate basic riding competency on a
DNR-regulated skills course and meet the physical size requirements for the machine.
Thank you for your willingness to serve as a volunteer instructor. Your service makes a
difference.
2005 Version
Contents
Course Summary ............................................................................................................1
Statute Covering Prohibitions for Youthful Operators ...............................................2
Classroom and Field Training Session ...................................................................3-12
Appendix A: Measuring the Student for Proper Fit on an ATV............................A1-A8
Appendix B: Diagrams for Riding Skills Stations................................................B1-B6
Instructor/Student Checklist.......................................................................................B2
Youth ATV Safety Training Exam/Instructor Copy
ATV Safety Training Course Summary
The DNR Enforcement Education Section has developed a new safety training course for
ATV operators ages 12-15. The course was developed in conjunction with the All-Terrain
Vehicle Association of Minnesota (ATVAM) and includes a riding component. Students who
meet the physical standards for their machines and successfully complete this course are
allowed to operate ATVs of any size in accordance with Minnesota Statute 84.9256. The
statute is printed on the following page and provides that students ages 12-15 who complete this course may make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way and operate on
state lands and waters only if they are accompanied by a person 18 years of age or
older who has a valid driver’s license. They are prohibited from operating along or on a
public road right-of-way.
This course is designed to be completed in two parts. The first portion of the course is an
interactive, independent study program presented on compact disc (CD). The CD is available free of charge through the DNR Information Center in St. Paul or the Enforcement
Education Office at Camp Ripley.
Once students complete the independent study portion of the course, they must complete
the classroom and field training sessions. The classroom and field training sessions are
conducted by certified volunteer instructors. Scheduled sessions are listed on the DNR
website at www.dnr.state.mn.us. Click on Education and Safety Training and scroll down
the list of safety classes to find the ATV Safety Training Course.
Students will not be allowed to participate in the classroom and field training portions of the course until they have completed the independent study course. They
also must meet the physical size requirements of the program.
A course fee of $15 is due at the classroom and field training session.
Students who successfully complete the classroom and field training portion of the course
will be issued a temporary certificate by the instructor. Instructors will submit class rosters
to the DNR and permanent certificates will be mailed directly to the students.
Students who have previously completed the old DNR ATV course and want to operate an
ATV larger than 90ccs may take the second part of the new course by showing their certificate to the instructor and paying the $15 fee. When these students successfully complete
the second part of the new course, they will receive a new certificate that will allow them to
operate the larger ATVs.
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84.9256 Youthful operators; prohibitions.
Subdivision 1. Prohibitions on youthful operators.
(a) Except for operation on public road rights-of-way that is
permitted under section 84.928 a driver’s license issued by the
state or another state is required to operate an all-terrain vehicle
along or on a public road right-of-way.
(b) A person under 12 years of age shall not:
(1) make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way;
(2) operate an all-terrain vehicle on a public road right-of-way in the state; or
(3) operate an all-terrain vehicle on public lands or waters.
(c) Except for public road rights-of-way of interstate
highways, a person 12 years of age but less than 16 years may
make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way of a trunk,
county state-aid, or county highway or operate on public lands
and waters, only if that person possesses a valid all-terrain
vehicle safety certificate issued by the commissioner and is
accompanied on another all-terrain vehicle by a person 18 years
of age or older who holds a valid driver’s license.
(d) All-terrain vehicle safety certificates issued by the
commissioner to persons 12 years old, but less than 16 years
old, are not valid for machines in excess of 90cc engine
capacity unless:
(1) the person successfully completed the safety education
and training program under section 84.925, subdivision 1,
including a riding component;
(2) the riding component of the training was conducted
using an all-terrain vehicle with over 90cc engine capacity; and
(3) the person is able to properly reach and control the
handle bars and reach the foot pegs while sitting upright on the
seat of the all-terrain vehicle.
Subd. 2. Helmet required. A person less than 18
years of age shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle on public
land, public waters, or on a public road right-of-way unless
wearing a safety helmet approved by the commissioner of public
safety.
Subd. 3. Prohibitions on person in lawful control.
It is unlawful for any person who is in lawful control of an
all-terrain vehicle to permit it to be operated contrary to this
section.
Subd. 4. Suspension. When the judge of a juvenile
court, or its duly authorized agent, determines that a person,
while less than 18 years of age, has violated sections 84.92 to
84.929, or other state or local law or ordinance regulating the
operation of an all-terrain vehicle, the judge or duly
authorized agent shall immediately report the determination to
the commissioner and (1) may recommend the suspension of the
person’s all-terrain vehicle safety certificate, or (2) may
recommend to the commissioner of public safety, the suspension
of the person’s driver’s license. The commissioner may suspend
the certificate without a hearing.
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Classroom and Field Training Session
Scheduling Your Session
Unit 6 of the Volunteer Instructor Procedures Manual (VIP) provides some good suggestions
for organizing training courses. You may want to review this material before you schedule
your session. The Course Organization Outline included in this unit is a helpful reference to
use for planning the training sessions.
The first thing you will need to do is to find a suitable location for the training. Note that these
sessions must be held in a public facility.
A room with tables and chairs is recommended for the classroom portion of the training. Also,
the facility should have a large, outdoor area such as a field or gravel parking lot that can be
used to conduct the riding portion of the training. (See the Riding Course Safety section of
this manual, p. 11). For safety purposes, do not conduct the riding portion on pavement!
Advertising Your Session (VIP 6-3)
Announce your upcoming class at area schools and in local newspapers. Information about
your class also will be included on the DNR website.
Encourage parents to attend the training. The certificate earned from this course allows
12-15-year-old youth to operate ATVs when accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older
who has a valid driver’s license. Students will most likely be riding with their parents. By attending the training, parents will find out what points they need to reinforce with their child,
may learn something new, and will have a better understanding of the rules. Parents may
attend the training free of charge unless they want to be certified. To become certified, they
must pay the$15 registration fee, complete a registration and parental release form, and show
proof of taking part one of the course.
Pre-Registering Students
Pre-registering your students will give you a good idea of how many students will be attending
your session. You may choose to limit your class size to 24 students or fewer. Smaller class
sizes allow for greater individual participation and a better overall learning experience. If more
than 24 students sign up for a session, you can split the class into two separate groups or offer an additional session at a later date.
Preparing for Your Class (VIP 6-1)
Before your class starts, you will need to:
1. review your instructor materials.
2. order student materials from Camp Ripley (VIP 8-1).
3. obtain props for the riding portion of the course.
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Student Materials
Materials you will receive from Camp Ripley (• indicates one for each student):
•
Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations (RMVR)
•
ATV law cards (orange card)
•
Name tags
•
Written examination with answer sheets
•
Registration and parental release forms
Roster A Education Class Roster
Roster B Student Roster
Training Course Registration (to order supplies for your next session)
Instructor/Student Checklist
Field Training Props/Obstacles
Field training props are available from different sites around the state. These are the standard
props that must be used at all DNR training sessions.
Call the Enforcement Education Office at Camp Ripley or your local regional training officer
(RTO) to request a set of props. The phone numbers for regional training officers are listed in
the introduction section of the VIP Manual. The props can be easily transported on a trailer.
You may want to build your own props. Plans for constructing the field training props can be
found in Appendix B of this manual.
Part Two of the ATV Safety Training
Part two of the ATV Safety Training Course consists of a classroom and a field training session. Before a student registers for this portion of the course, he/she must have completed
the independent study portion of the training. The student must show you proof of having
successfully completed this training by providing the computer printout from the CD of the 8
quizzes and the printout of the certificate that has been signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Some students may have taken the old DNR ATV Safety Training Course which certified them
to operate an ATV 90ccs or smaller. They may also register for this session by showing the
instructor their certificate and paying the $15 fee.
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Student Registration
As students arrive with their parents:
1. Determine that the students are of a physical size that they will fit an adult ATV.
See Appendix A.
2. Determine that the students have the required 8 quizzes and certificate that has
been signed by a parent or legal guardian.
3. Determine that the students have the proper clothing to complete the riding
performance: helmet, boots (no sandals or tennis shoes), long pants, longsleeved shirt, and gloves.
4. Make sure that students or parents complete a Registration and Parental
Release Form (VIP 8-2)
a. Parent or legal guardian must sign the form.
b. Student is covered with insurance once the form is signed.
c. Instructor should request to see a copy of the student’s birth
certificate to verify the correct full legal name and correct date of
birth.
5. Collect the course fee. Checks should be issued to the DNR.
6. Provide each student with a DNR ATV safety name tag. The name tags will
help you learn the names of the students.
Note: If you anticipate a large number of students will be attending your session, you may
want to enlist other instructors and assistants to help you organize the class.
You may have a large number of students arriving at your session at the advertised starting time, so you should be prepared to complete the registration in a timely manner. Having
several instructors or helpers familiar with the registration process can help you accomplish
this. You will need to provide adequate space with tables and chairs at which the forms can
be completed.
Students will need to be supervised as parents/guardians are completing the registration form.
It is suggested that your students view the video Smart Riding, produced by Arctic
Cat , as they wait for the session to begin. The video runs approximately 20 minutes. You
may choose to start the video as students arrive, giving them something to do. Or, you may
start the video at the advertised start time, allowing for late arrivals and completing the registration. The video will function as a review for your students. Each ATV manufacturer provides a similar video with the purchase of a new ATV. Encourage students to study the video
they received with the machine they will be riding.
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The Smart Riding video has three sections. You may choose to allow your students to view
some or all of the sections. Challenge the students to find the obvious rule violation in the third
section. (You will note that there are three ATV riders in one segment that are not following the
three-second rule.)
Classroom Session
I. Introduce volunteer instructors and representative from host organization.
a. Introduce yourself and fellow instructors. (VIP 3-4)
b. Introduce the host organization, e.g., the local ATV club.
II. Welcome your students to the class.
a. Explain expectations and class rules. (VIP 3-4)
i. Explain that you expect adult-like manners in the class and field activities.
ii. Explain the consequences of violating class rules.
iii. Explain the requirements for earning a certificate.
III. Base groups
a. Divide your class into base groups. (VIP 5-2,3)
i. Number off to form groups of three.
ii. Each student will have a job in his/her group: facilitator, recorder, or spokesperson. Explain the role of each job. Direct each group to determine who will
do what for the next activity.
Remember: Students learn best in a cooperative learning environment.
IV. Pop quiz
a. Begin the formal start of the classroom session by asking each student to write a
paragraph to answer the question: As a 12-15-year-old ATV rider in Minnesota,
what regulations pertain to you riding on non-private land?
b. Provide each student with a copy of the latest Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations handbook (RMVR).
c. Ask for students to volunteer their answers. Allow up to three different answers.
Direct your students to the page(s) where the answers are found in the handbook.
Determine that all your students understand the correct answer. Emphasize the
correct answer as often as possible in this session.
V. Dilemma situation (VIP 5-6)
a. Direct the facilitator of each group to have the group write a response to the following dilemma:
b. You are 13 years old and have been certified by successfully completing the Minnesota ATV Safety Training Course. You are riding your ATV with a person who has a
valid driver’s license. This person wants you to follow him/her as you leave private
property and ride onto the outside slope of a road right-of-way to get to more private
property where you have permission to ride. You know that you cannot legally ride
on the road right-of-way. What do you do?
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c. Allow two minutes for the group to develop an answer and the recorder to write a
response.
d. Call on the spokespersons of two or three groups to share their responses with the
class.
e. Facilitate a conclusion to the activity.
i. It is the rider’s responsibility to obey all laws and regulations. The student
should not follow the adult.
ii. You may suggest that the adult is subject to receive a citation from a law
enforcement officer for allowing a youth, without a driver’s license, to operate
an ATV in a road right-of-way.
VI. State Forest Lands
a. Look in the Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations handbook for the State
Forest Land Classifications have students look up example situation in RMVR.
(VIP 5-7)
b. There are three classifications for state forest lands, they are:
i. Managed Motor vehicles may operate only on forest roads and forest trails
unless they are posted closed. You cannot ride anywhere you want in the
forest. You cannot cut your own trails in the forest.
ii. Limited Motor vehicles may operate on forest roads unless they are
posted closed. Motor vehicles may operate on forest trails or other areas
only if they are posted open.
iii. Closed Motor vehicles are not allowed except: they may use forest roads
that are not posted or gated closed and they may operate on frozen waters
where it is not prohibited.
iv. Scenario:
You and your family are on an ATV riding trip to the Rum River State Forest.
You and a parent go riding in the forest area. You are traveling on a state
forest road. You see a trail in the woods that other ATVs have been on; there
is no sign or gate at this trail.
v. Answers:
What is the classification for this forest? This forest is in the limited classification. You are traveling on a state forest road.
Is this legal? Yes, the forest roads are open unless posted closed.
You see a trail in the woods that other ATVs have been on; there is no sign or
gate at this trail.
Can you ride this trail? No, you may only ride on trails that are posted open.
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VII. Environmental Considerations
It is very important to help your students become responsible and ethical riders. A
genuine appreciation for the environment and their role in protecting it can be instilled
at a very young age. Hopefully, students come to your class with an appreciation for
the environment and natural resources. For some, this may be their first and only interaction/discussion regarding the impacts their actions may have on the environment.
ATV use is constantly being evaluated for its role in damaging soil and vegetation
across the state. ATVs can cause a lot of damage to the environment when they are
used in certain types of terrain and weather, and at certain speeds. Many factors
contribute to environmental damage. As responsible riders, we can change behavior
and attitudes and, thereby, protect our sport. If all ATV riders acted responsibly we
would not be facing trail closures and restrictions on where we can ride in public areas.
a. Brainstorm Activity (VIP 5-5)
b. What impacts do ATVs have on the environment?
i. The impacts were addressed in the CD portion of the course.
This activity will act as a review and emphasize the importance of the
topic.
ii. Make sure the answers include the following:
1. Erosion
2. Soil compaction
3. Destroys vegetation
4. Ruts
5. Litter
iii. Discuss each answer and ask the students how they can change their
riding habits to prevent these environmental impacts.
1. Tread lightly
2. Avoid wetland areas
3. Hill riding may increase erosion
4. Less aggressive tire tread
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VIII. Riding considerations
You are operating your ATV in an area with tall grass. What kind of hazards may be
hidden? You are in this same area at night, how does this change your riding
behavior?
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
Logs
Ruts
Branches
Barbed wire
Posts
Holes
You are riding with a group on a state trail. A section of the trail is in the road right-ofway. What hazards might a person encounter when riding an ATV on this trail?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
Culverts
Driveway approaches
Road signs
Mailboxes
Telephone poles
Guide wires
Telephone junction boxes
Trees
Other trail users
Water holes
Fallen trees
Branches
Can you legally operate in this area without a driver’s license?
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Accident Review and Discussion (VIP 5-5)
During the course of the training session, you will find times where it would be appropriate to
discuss an ATV accident. Important points to consider are: What happened? How could this
accident have been prevented?
14-year-old male died when the 300cc ATV he was operating in the ditch went over an approach and rolled back over on top of him.
12-year-old male died when the 300cc ATV he was operating rolled on top of him. Victim
was attempting to ride up a snow bank when the ATV rolled backward.
3-year-old male died after he was able to access and start an unattended 500cc, six-wheel
ATV. After starting the machine, he accelerated quickly by pressing the throttle and rode the
machine until he fell off and was run over.
48-year-old male died when the 493cc ATV he was operating on a lake was driven into open
water. Alcohol involved-yes. BAC-.23 All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Certificate-no.
When the classroom training has ended, allow students to ask questions.
Administering the Written Exam (VIP 3-8)
When possible, the written exam should be given to the students after they have successfully
completed the field training portion of the course. The riding portion helps to reinforce what
students have learned in the CD and classroom training.
Hand the examinations to the students. Have one of the instructors read the exam out loud.
Some students may not be good readers or may have a learning disability. Advise the students
that they may work ahead of the reader. (VIP 3-8)
After the exam has been corrected, the class should review it together. It is important that the
students leave the training with the correct information. Students must receive a score of 80
percent or better to attain a passing score.
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Field Training Session
Once the classroom training session is completed, it is time to move your students to the field
training area. The field training area should be set up before class according to the diagrams
in Appendix C.
Riding Course Safety
The safety of the students should be your first priority. When setting up each station, do a risk
assessment by looking for possible hazards. Keep the area within and around the stations
free of potential hazards such as trees, cars, buildings, holes, large rocks, power poles, fences, or any other item the students could hit.
The type of ATV used can also provide an element of safety. ATVs equipped with lower range
gear selection should be used if possible. Shifting the machine to a low gear range will limit
the speed without sacrificing power. If the machines you’re using are equipped with screwstyle throttle blocks, engage the block to restrict the movement of the throttle to prevent excessive speed.
After the stations have been set up, an instructor should ride the course to evaluate the safety,
difficulty level, and signage. Make any necessary corrections before the students are allowed
on the course.
The first part of the field training session will be to determine that each student meets the size
requirements for operating an ATV. If a student does not fit the ATV used for this field training
session, he/she must either use a smaller framed machine or they cannot participate in this
portion of the training.
The riding portion will consist of three different riding stations.
•
Station 1 stops, serpentine
•
Station 2 stops, obstacles
•
Station 3 turns, uphill, downhill, traverse hill, reverse
The stations are progressively more difficult and are designed to slowly build skill and confidence. Students must successfully complete Station 1 before they can move on to Station 2
and so on until they complete Station 3.
Discuss Rules of the Road
Facilitate a discussion of each of the following. This should be a review of the rules presented
in the independent study CD program. Make sure that all the students understand the proper
responses.
• Stay to the right on the trail
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•
•
•
•
•
Passing
Safe distance “three second rule”
Obey trail signs
Horses
Crossing roads
Demonstrate Hand Signals
• Stop
• Slow down
• Turn left/right
• Move over, oncoming vehicles
Demonstrate Body Weight Distribution/Leaning
• Right turn
• Left turn
• Uphill
• Downhill
• Traverse hill
Pre-Ride and Pre-Start Check
Using the instructor/student check list, walk students through a pre-ride and pre-start check.
Each student will have to perform a pre-ride and pre-start check before riding in Station 1.
Demonstrate Course
Instructors should describe and demonstrate each of the three course stations to the students.
First, provide a verbal explanation of what the students are expected to do at each obstacle.
Then, demonstrate how to properly maneuver the course at Station 1. The students should
observe which skills are needed to complete the station such as riding at the proper speed and
direction. Allow the students to ask questions about the station course. Repeat for Stations 2
and 3.
Riding Skills Practice and Evaluation
Have the students break down into smaller groups by experience level. Allow the more experienced students to begin Station 1 first. They should require little practice before completing
Station 1 and moving on to Stations 2 and 3. This allows more practice time for less experienced students. Do not allow more than two ATVs on a station course at a time. Remind
students of the three-second spacing rule. Use the instructor/student checklist to keep track of
progress.
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Appendix A
Measuring the Student for Proper Fit on an ATV
The photographs in Appendix A illustrate proper and improper riding positions.
1. While seated, student can reach and grip both handlebars while
maintaining a distinct bend at the elbows.
Proper Fit
Appendix C
Improper Fit
A-1
2. While seated, student can reach foot pegs/controls
with upper leg nearly parallel to the ground.
Proper Fit
A-2
Improper Fit
3. While seated, student can reach and control throttle and
handbrake. Student must be able to control throttle and
handbrake while turning handle bars to extreme right and left.
Proper Fit
Improper Fit
A-3
4. There must be a 3-inch minimum space from top of inseam
to ATV seat while standing on foot pegs and holding handlebars.
Proper Fit
Improper Fit
A-4
5. Student has sufficient strength to set hand parking brake.
Student can use two hands and can be on or off the ATV.
Proper Fit
Improper Fit
A-5
6. While seated, student has sufficient strength to press and properly
engage foot brake.
Proper fit
Improper fit
A-6
7. While seated, student has sufficient strength to operate
the shift lever.
Proper Fit
Improper Fit
A-7
8. Student can operate controls without looking at them.
Proper Fit
Improper Fit
A-8
Appendix B
Prior to the riding course, all students will conduct a pre-ride and
pre-start checklist. Demonstrate the checklists for the students.
The stations are to be set up according to the diagram on the next
three pages. This is the DNR riding certification. All students must
successfully complete all three stations in order to receive certification. The stations progressively increase in difficulty and are designed to build skills from station to station. Students must complete each station in order, beginning at Station 1 and finishing with
Station 3. Station 3 is the final evaluation of the student’s riding
skills. Upon successfully completing all three stations, the student
will have met the riding skills requirements for certification. Use
the ATV checklist to evaluate each student’s performance.
B-1
ATV Safety Course Instructor/Student Checklist
Student’s Name: ________________________________ Date: _________________
(All check boxes must be successfully completed before student can be certified)
Completed Part One CD Course
Student CD Quizzes Completed (8)
Parent Signed Certificate of Completion
Parent Completed FIT Checklist
Pre-Ride Checklist
o
o
o
Administration
Instructor Checked Student Fit[[[
[[[
Parental Release Form Signed
Course Fee Paid ($15)
Student Passed Written Exam (80%)
o
o
o
o
Brakes
o
o
o
Shift Lever (Hand or
Ignition Switch)
o
Tires-Wheels
Throttle
Headlight/Taillight
Brake Light
Oil Leve
Fuel Level
Air Filter
Riding Skills Course: Pre-Ride Start
Hand Signals Demonstration
Pre-Ride Check Completed (see checklist)
Pre-Start Check Completed (see procedure)
o
o
o
Riding Skills Practice/Evaluation
Station 1
Station 2
Station 3
Drive Train (Shaft or any
loose nuts or bolts
Muffler
o
o
o
Set Parking Brake
Fuel Valve On
Shift in Neutral
Choke On
Start Engine
B-2
o
Pre-Start Procedure
Engine Stop Switch On
Temporary Certificate Issued
o
o
o
o
o
o
p
o
o
o
o
o
o
Station 1
MN DNR ATV CLASSROOM
AND FIELD SESSION RIDING
COURSE SETUP
STAY ON
TRAIL
STOP
Many instructors have had questions relating to
the dimensions of the riding course stations.
The course is divided into three separate
stations. The approximate ground area needed
for each station is 50 yards x 35 yards free of
possible hazards such as trees, posts, holes,
fence, etc. A safety buffer zone should also be
provided outside the course area, which is also
free of hazards. If you are setting the courses up
side by side, the approximate area is comparable
to a football field. Sites that do not have one
continuous large area but several smaller areas
can also be utilized by setting up stations in each
available 50 x 35 yard area.
Pre-Ride
Check
Area
STOP
Instructor checks
students’ fit to the
ATV. students
conduct pre-ride
checks and demo
hand signals.
Pre-Start
Check
Start
STOP
Station 2
C
STOP
CAUTION
*Remember to follow the course stations
diagrams in the Instructor Manual when setting
up each station. Use the DNR provided props
and sign. Always ride each station course before
students are allowed on the course. Evaluate
cone spacing, signage and possible hazards.
Make adjustments if needed. *Course riding
safety is your responsibility.
D
B
STAY ON
TRAIL
A
STOP
Start
Station 3
STAY ON
TRAIL
STOP
B
C
A
Forward-stop
Reverse-turn-stop
Forward
STOP
Start
STOP
B-3
Riding Skills Station 1
Straight riding, braking and serpentine around cones. (Basic skills)
Instructor evaluates students’ fit to the machine and ability to brake and maneuver around several obstacles
on a flat level course. Students are to use hand signals at directional signs. No more than two machines on
this course at a time (remind students of proper spacing).
STAY ON
TRAIL
STOP
Pre-Ride
Check
Area
STOP
Start
STOP
B-4
Pre-Start
Check
Instructor checks
students’ fit to the
ATV. students
conduct pre-ride
checks and demo
hand signals.
Riding Skills Station 2
Negotiating various ground obstacles (Basic Skills)
Students practice going over simulated logs at various angles. Some are from a stop and one is done in
reverse gear. No more than two ATVs on the course at a time (remind students to maintain proper spacing).
Students continue on course until they can complete all obstacles with little difficulty.
Obstacle A – Medium 65x70 Prop
Students cross beams at slow speed at a right angle.
Obstacle B – Large Offset Prop
Students cross beams at an angle.
Obstacle C – Small 4 x 4 Prop
Students stop once their front wheels are between beams then slowly cross both beams.
Obstacle D – 48 x 60 V Prop
Students cross beams at a slow speed then stop and back across beams, then go forward across
again and proceed to start point.
C
STOP
CAUTION
D
B
STAY ON
TRAIL
A
STOP
Start
B-5
Riding Skills Station 3
Hills/Side Hilling, Circle Turns, Backing and Turning (Basic Skills)
Students practice going uphill/downhill and side hilling. Students also practice tight circle turns and backing
and turning along with hand signals and stopping and looking before crossing roads. No more than two ATVs
on the course at a time.
Obstacle A – 4 Ramp System
Students follow a modified figure 8 going first
up/downhill, side hilling then back over the hill,
and then side hilling again.
Obstacle B – Students make three tight circle turns around a cone.
Obstacle C – Students stop and make a turn while backing up.
STAY ON
TRAIL
STOP
B
C
A
Forward-stop
Reverse-turn-stop
Forward
STOP
STOP
B-6
Start
Minnesota DNR Safety Training
Youth ATV Safety Training Exam
Use the answer sheet provided by your instructor. Do not mark on the exam booklet.
Take your time and check your answers. There are 50 questions. A score of 80 percent or
above is needed to pass.
1. In Minnesota, who has the greatest input for making rules for those who ride ATVs?
a. ATV riders
b. The governor
c. The non-rider majority
d. The DNR
e. All the above
2. ATV riders who don’t follow the laws and safety regulations risk which of the following:
a. Accidents and injury
b. Trail closures
c. More restrictive laws
d. Loss of riding privileges
e. All the above
3. Which type of registration is necessary to ride your ATV anywhere it is legal in Minnesota?
a. Public use
b. Private use
c. Agricultural
d. Duplicate
e. None of the above
4. The law says that to cross a public road with an ATV, you must:
a. Come to a complete stop
b. Cross at a 90-degree angle to the road
c. Have an ATV safety certificate and be accompanied by a parent or guardian if you
are 12-15 years old
d. If you are 16 or older, you must have a valid driver’s license
e. All the above
5. In Minnesota, 47 percent of ATV accident victims are in what age group?
a. 1-9 years old
b. 10 -19 years old
c. 20-29 years old
d. 30-39 years old
e. 40 and over
6. What ages within the teenage group are involved in the majority of ATV accidents with
injury?
a. 10-12
b. 13-15
c. 16-18
d. 19-20
7. What is the most important safety feature on an ATV that can prevent accidents?
a. Headlight and taillight
b. Hand and foot brakes
c. Engine off switch
d. The rider’s brain
e. None of the above
8. One reason ATVs are unstable, and prone to rollover and injure riders is because:
a. They have high-pressure tires
b. They have hand brakes
c. They have a high center of gravity
d. They don’t have power steering
e. None of the above
9. An ATV can also roll over and cause injury because of its short wheelbase when:
a. Trying to back up on a steep hill
b. Going down a hill and applying the brake too hard
c. Climbing a steep hill
d. While traversing a hill
e. All the above
10. Which of the following would not be considered protective wear for general ATV riding:
a. Helmet
b. Elbow pads
c. Long pants
d. Boots
e. Eye protection
11. When going up a hill on an ATV, you must shift your body weight:
a. Forward
b. Backward
c. As low as possible
d. Onto the foot pegs
e. None of the above
12. The definition of a public road right-of-way is:
a. The traveled portion of the road where cars and trucks drive
b. The traveled portion and shoulders of the road
c. Any four-lane highway and median between the lanes
d. Ditches, both inside and outside bank
e. All the above
13. Which of the following is the location where most ATV accidents happen:
a. Frozen lakes
b. Private property
c. Public road right-of-way
d. Railroad right-of-way
14. Which of the following are true about ditches within a public road right-of-way:
a. They are designed to carry water away from the road
b. They are not designed for recreational vehicle traffic (ATVs or snowmobiles)
c. There are many seen and unseen hazards or “ditch dangers”
d. Riding of ATVs in ditches is not allowed unless you have a driver’s license
e. All the above
15. If you have an ATV law question, the best place to research it is?
a. Your ATV owner’s manual
b. The DNR Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations booklet
c. Your best friend
d. The newspaper
e. None of the above
16. Which of the following best describes the operator’s sight distance while riding an ATV:
a. How far ahead you can see
b. The ability to see a minimum of 100 yards ahead of the ATV
c. The distance the ATV operator is able to see and identify potential hazards
d. All the above
e. None of the above
17. The safety rule when following another ATV is to maintain a minimum space of at least
how many seconds?
a. One second, counted as (1- one thousand)
b. Two seconds, counted as (1-one thousand, 2-one thousand)
c. Three seconds, counted as (1-one thousand, 2-one thousand, 3-one
thousand)
d. There is no minimum space required
18. When an ATV rider raises his/her left arm and pumps it over his/her head to the right, the
rider is signaling:
a. Stop ahead
b. Right turn ahead
c. Oncoming traffic, move right
d. Left turn ahead
e. None of the above
19. Riding ATVs on soft, wet soil can cause which of the following:
a. Damage to plants that prevent erosion
b. Trail closures
c. Hillside ruts which lead to further erosion from wind and rain
d. Complaints from non-riders of damage to environment
e. All the above
20. The future use of ATVs on public land is dependent on which of the following:
a. The ATV manufacturers and tourism industry
b. Special interest groups meeting with lawmakers
c. All ATV riders taking a safety training course
d. Individual ATV rider responsibility to reduce or eliminate damage to
environmentally sensitive areas
21. Which of the following can you do to reduce environmental damage?
a. Use a less aggressive tread design (no knobby tires)
b. Avoid wet areas and streams
c. Avoid spinning of tires
d. Use only designated ATV trails on public lands
e. All the above
22. When traversing a hill on an ATV you must shift your body weight:
a. Forward
b. Backward
c. To the uphill side
d. To the downhill side
e. Low on the machine
23. Youth aged 12 to 15 who have successfully completed the ATV Safety Training and Riding
course can operate an ATV:
a. On public lands and waters only if they are accompanied by a person 18 or
older who possesses a driver’s license
b. Anywhere they want
c. Can ride a 1200cc ATV
d. In a public road ditch with parental permission
e. Can cross public roadways without a parent or guardian
24. When is a helmet required by law to be worn by ATV riders?
a. Only when involved in an organized race event
b. Only when it’s cold or snowing
c. Only when they are younger than 18 years old
d. Never, helmets are not required for anyone
25. Over-driving your headlights at night means:
a. You don’t have your high beams on
b. With your lights on, you can go fast
c. Going faster than you are able to recognize a hazard, and stop or steer to
avoid it
d. None of the above
26. Which of the following is not true when starting your ATV:
a. The shift lever can be in any gear
b. The engine stop switch must be in the “run” position
c. Can be started by either the electric or pull start
d. The “parking” hand brake should be set
e. The fuel valve should be in the “on” position
27. What is the most important thing to remember should one become lost?
a. Look for food
b. Build a fire
c. Keep yelling for help as long as you can
d. Stay calm, keep a positive attitude
e. All of the above
28. Which of the following best defines hypothermia?
a. A higher than normal core body temperature
b. A fear of doctors and hypodermic needles
c. Loss of core body temperature
d. A person that shivers
e. Sweating profusely on a hot day
29. Which of the following body parts are usually susceptible to frost bite?
a. Ears
b. Hands
c. Face
d. Any exposed skin
e. All of the above
30. Treatment for mild hypothermia includes the following except:
a. Get the victim to a warm place
b. As quickly as possible, give them alcohol to drink
c. Give the victim warm food and warm liquids
d. Remove any wet or damp clothing
e. Wrap victim in warm blankets
Numbers 31 through 50 are True or False Questions
31. T or F
On most ATVs, the shift lever is either foot or hand controlled.
32. T or F
By law, helmets are required to be worn by persons 18 years or older.
33. T or F
Your brain is the most important accident avoidance safety feature on an ATV.
34. T or F
Riding an ATV on the shoulder of the road is okay if you are with an adult.
35. T or F
The law allows one operator and passenger to be on an ATV over 90cc.
36. T or F
The DNR requires an accident report to be filed if there is death, injury or
property damage over $500.
37. T or F
When riding, you should always be scanning for hazards and adjusting your
speed to the conditions.
38. T or F
If land is posted “No Hunting/Trespassing” you can ride there because you’re
not hunting.
39. T or F
You must meet the “8 Fit Requirements” for any ATV you ride.
40. T or F
ATV riding on designated snowmobile trails is allowed as long as you have an
ATV certificate.
41. T or F
No person under the age of 18 may register an ATV.
42. T or F
Registration numbers and decals are displayed on the front and back of ATVs
just like cars.
43. T or F
There are no restrictions on using ATVs for grouse or deer hunting. (You may use the
Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations handbook to verify this answer.)
44. T or F
If you see an unmarked ATV trail going across public or private land, it’s okay to
ride there.
45. T or F
The term “K Turn” refers to a safe method of turning an ATV around on a hill.
46. T or F
When riding on a frozen lake within 100 feet of a person or shelter, the maximum
speed for ATVs is 10 mph. (You may use the Recreational Motor Vehicles Regulations
handbook to verify this answer.)
47. T or F
Almost all public lands have restrictions relating to when and where ATVs can be
ridden.
48. T or F
The majority of ATV accidents involving youth happen within the road right-of-way
where it is unlawful for them to ride.
49. T or F
The #1 injury accident type in Minnesota is ATV rollover/operator thrown from the
machine.
50. T or F
The purpose of this course is to give you the information to make safe/ethical
decisions that reduce accidents, promote safety and reduce environmental damage.