MI regulations for kids?

[YamaPolCat]

My family and I are heading up to ride in the UP in a couple days. If I read the Michigan snowmobile laws correctly, my son who is 12 can drive a sled as long as an adult is present? Does the adult have to be on the sled with him, or just riding in the group with him?

 

[7707]

He needs to have taken a Snowmobile Safty class and have the card with him. He can be on his own sled as long as a adult is in the group. Happy Trails.

 

[chillywilly]

Not sure about Michigan but I've seen kids riding sleds in minocqua and their feet can't even reach the tunnel.

 

[whitedust]

They have to have their WI DNR saftey class badge & card on board or ride is done.

 

[mjkaliszak]

My family and I are heading up to ride in the UP in a couple days. If I read the Michigan snowmobile laws correctly, my son who is 12 can drive a sled as long as an adult is present? Does the adult have to be on the sled with him, or just riding in the group with him?

The laws are loosely written. He shouldn't cross a road ( technically ) but you can be in the group with him. You do not have to be on the sled with him . We have seldom had a problem with kids , only 1 time down in this part of Mich, when the county mounty chased us down and read me the riot act because we were going down the wrong side of the road. I had to take it or get lippy and take a fine. The laws ( unless re-written ) are kind of hard to state specifics other than the crossing the road stuff. What most DRN is looking for is the reg stickers & trail stickers.

 

[7707]

mjKaliszak is right about the crossing of roads and riding in the road right-of-ways.
Just be careful and try to stay on the marked trail in these areas. If they're being careless in these areas, or the adults are'nt paying close attention to them, they may stop and atleast give ya a talkin to. But they can write you a ticket if they want to.

 

[polarisrider1]

Safety Classes
Who Needs to Take a Snowmobile Safety Course???

You must successfully complete a snowmobile safety course if you are:

•A person who is at least 12 but less than 17 years of age operating a snowmobile without direct supervision of a person 21 years of age or older must have in their immediate possession a valid snowmobile safety certificate.
•A person who is at least 12 but less than 17 years of age may not cross a highway or street without having a valid snowmobile safety certificate in their immediate possession.
•Snowmobile safety training is recommended for all snowmobile operators. Modern snowmobiles are capable of high rates of speeds over snow and ice. With the countless hazards associated with operating a snowmobile, training is a crucial factor in safe and responsible snowmobile operation.
•Michigan Conservation Officers, in cooperation with schools, organizations and associations, take an active role in assuring that all of Michigan's citizens are given the opportunity to take a snowmobile safety course. The course emphasizes safe and responsible snowmobile operation.

 

[vic_junior]

My family and I are heading up to ride in the UP in a couple days. If I read the Michigan snowmobile laws correctly, my son who is 12 can drive a sled as long as an adult is present? Does the adult have to be on the sled with him, or just riding in the group with him?

Your best bet is to complete the ONLINE Snowmobile Safety Course here

www.snowmobilecourse.com/usa/michigan

This one is out of Michigan, but is good for all states.

Once your kid has passed the test, you should be able to print out a page saying he has completed it and their certificate is going to be mailed. Make sure your kid has it on them when riding in case they are stopped. You can do this same process for riding PWC on lakes.

 

[vic_junior]

Just looked, I guess you get one from Iowa also. I see that is where you are from.

 

[vic_junior]

Just took the practice quiz myself. Pretty easy. Your kid could probably knock this out in a few hours and have their "Temp Certificate" well before your trip.

 

[rpm]

My daughter completed a IL. snowmobile safety class, is this acceptable in Michigan for her to ride?

 

[sjshaner]

My daughter completed a IL. snowmobile safety class, is this acceptable in Michigan for her to ride?

Yes accepted by Mi, Wi, Ia, Mn for sure. Not 100% sure of other states but most likely all others as well. Just check DNR websites for any other states you may want to go to. I know it is good in the 4 I listed, I checked for my kids.